Healthy Living

Listen to Healthy Living with Dr Ross Walker and Adam Buncher, the full show podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Ross Walker speaks with Dr Adrian Cohen about the latest research on CTE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Ross Walker speaks with Dr Clay Golledge abouthe latest Malaria outbreak in Germany. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed speaks with Dr Stephan Barnett about MedLuma a new AI-driven clinical knowledge engine. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanver Ahmed talks wth author Rich Haridy about his book Trip Reports See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed Professor Ben Freedman who leads the Heart Research Institute’s Heart Rhythm and Stroke Prevention Group about the best treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cataract surgery is one of the most common medical procedures in Australia, with over 250,000 surgeries performed annually. Dr Tanveer Ahmed speaks with Professor Andrew Chang. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to Healthy Living with Dr Tanveer Ahmed and Adam Buncher, the full show podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of Healthy Living explores the unconscious bias surrounding sleep apnea, specifically how the condition is often misperceived as a male-centric issue. Featuring Bryce Perrin, founder and CEO of CPAP Direct, the discussion delves into why women are frequently undiagnosed due to different symptomatic presentations and flawed screening tools. The conversation highlights the significant impact of menopause on airway stability and discusses how symptoms like insomnia, brain fog, and chronic fatigue can serve as red flags for obstructive sleep apnea in women.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Ross Walker and guests explore the molecular foundations of aging and the impact of environmental toxins like PFAS on our health trajectories. The discussion covers critical topics including the management of menopause through modern hormone replacement therapy, the importance of female representation in clinical trials, and the physiological complexities of anemia. The episode also addresses significant public health concerns, such as the lethal impact of secondhand smoke and the role of blood pressure management in preventing dementia. Through listener questions and expert interviews, the conversation provides actionable insights into nutrition, medication use, and lifestyle interventions for long-term longevity.

This episode explores the critical gender data gap in medical research, where women remain significantly underrepresented in early-phase clinical trials. Host Dr. Ross interviews health advocate and Nucleus Network ambassador Shelley Horton to discuss the biological necessity of including female participants to prevent adverse drug reactions and ensure safer medicines. The conversation covers the 'Do It For' campaign, the financial compensation available for trial participants, and the safety protocols used by Nucleus Network during first-in-human trials.

Mary Kustis and Dr. Ross discuss the medical mismanagement of menopause, highlighting the lack of education and the historical stigma surrounding hormone replacement therapy. They also touch upon a new partnership between Unpause and Teachers Health Group aimed at supporting essential workers during hormonal transitions. The discussion explores the importance of supporting professionals like teachers and nurses through menopause via the Unpause telehealth platform. The episode also features a humorous listener interaction, medical advice regarding hormone therapy for physical symptoms, and information on accessing Dr. Ross's book and services.

This episode explores the severe psychiatric emergency known as postpartum psychosis, a condition characterized by an abrupt onset of hallucinations, delusions, and mania following childbirth. Dr. Tanvir Ahmed discusses the biological and genetic drivers of the disorder, highlighting its strong association with bipolar disorder and the significant role of genetic vulnerability. The conversation examines the critical window for symptom onset, typically between day eight and ten postpartum, and addresses the challenges in identifying early warning signs like a reduced need for sleep. The discussion also touches upon the devastating real-world implications of misdiagnosis, referencing the Lindsay Clancy case to illustrate the potential for catastrophic outcomes. Dr. Ahmed provides guidance on recognizing early indicators such as rapid speech and impulsivity, while outlining treatment approaches ranging from community-based care with antipsychotics to specialized inpatient perinatal units.

This episode features an interview with Professor Nyusha Shafiabadi regarding new AI models designed to predict patient mortality in the ICU with over 98% accuracy. The discussion explores how these models process vast amounts of clinical data, including medical history, vital signs, and laboratory results, to assist clinicians in identifying high-risk patients. The conversation also addresses the implementation of explainable AI methods to overcome the 'black box' problem, allowing doctors to understand the specific physiological triggers behind an alert. Professor Shafiabadi outlines the necessary steps for clinical integration, including testing prototypes with real-world data across different hospital settings and larger populations.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Ross Walker and guests explore critical developments in medical research and clinical practice. The discussion covers the rising rates of cannabis use disorder and its links to psychosis, alongside new insights into postpartum psychosis and the biological role of cholesterol in the brain. The hosts also examine advancements in cancer immunotherapy using RNA and the potential for AI models to predict ICU mortality with high accuracy. The episode features a comprehensive listener Q&A addressing topics such as systemic causes of shortness of breath, the necessity of statins for low calcium scores, and the importance of recognizing sleep apnea in women. Additionally, the conversation touches on the benefits of exercise and horticultural therapy for managing depression in older age.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Ross Walker and guests explore the profound impact of nutrition and lifestyle on long-term health, specifically focusing on how ultra-processed foods threaten brain health and cognitive function. The discussion covers essential preventative care for men in their 60s, including vital screenings and vaccinations, alongside updates on medical advancements like mRNA technology for cancer treatment. The program also addresses critical public health concerns, such as the rising drug overdose crisis in Australia and its shifting demographics, as well as the importance of specialist nursing in prostate cancer care. From managing post-operative delirium to understanding the gut-brain axis, the episode provides actionable medical insights and updates on emerging clinical research.

This episode of Healthy Living explores the growing hearing health crisis among Australian men, noting that 62% currently report concerns about their hearing. Featuring Alex Stutley, National Clinic Support Manager and accredited audiologist at Audica, the discussion examines why a 'tough-it-out' mindset and social stigma lead many men to delay essential professional checks. The conversation covers common early warning signs of hearing loss, the impact of modern discreet technology like Bluetooth-enabled rechargeable aids, and practical advice for families looking to encourage better health outcomes during Father's Day.

This episode of Healthy Living explores the alarming rise in drug-induced deaths in Australia, noting that 2024 has become the deadliest year on record. Co-author of the annual overdose report Rhys Cohen discusses a significant demographic shift where individuals in their 50s now represent the largest cohort for unintentional drug-induced fatalities. The discussion covers the increasing prevalence of amphetamine-type stimulants, the complexities of poly drug use involving both illicit substances and pharmaceuticals, and the rising rates of drug-induced suicides among older populations.

Associate Professor Vincent Ho discusses a groundbreaking phase two clinical trial underway in Australia for an investigational medicine called DonQ52. Designed to target celiac disease, the treatment aims to block gluten-dependent T-cells that cause inflammation and small bowel damage. The discussion explores why many patients continue to experience symptoms despite strict gluten-free diets and how this injectable antibody could provide a secondary layer of defense against accidental gluten exposure. The episode also outlines the eligibility criteria for the 54-week trial, which includes adults aged 18 to 75 with confirmed celiac disease. Information is provided regarding the controlled gluten challenge used in the study and how interested participants can register via the official study website.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Professor Declan Murphy, Director of Genitourinary Oncology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, discusses the recent announcement regarding the Australian Government's intention to end funding for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia's specialist nursing program. The conversation explores the critical role these nurses play in supporting men from diagnosis through treatment and side-effect management, as well as the concerns surrounding the diversion of funds to the McGrath Foundation. Professor Murphy also provides essential guidance on prostate health maintenance, highlighting new national guidelines for early detection. He emphasizes the importance of PSA blood tests for men aged 50 and above, or those aged 45 with higher risk factors, to prevent advanced-stage diagnoses.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Ross Walker and Rob Caldor explore recent medical findings, including the STARI trial's implications for statin use in older Australians and breakthroughs in CAR-T cell therapy using ultrasound. The discussion also delves into the unique presentation of male eating disorders, such as 'bigorexia,' and examines how modern LED lighting may impact cellular health compared to natural light. The show features a variety of listener queries regarding PSA testing, cholesterol management, and cardiac symptoms. The episode concludes with an inspiring interview with 82-year-old dragon boat racer Neil Millgate on maintaining physical independence, followed by a heartwarming story about the power of community support.

In this episode of Healthy Living, 82-year-old international dragon boater Neil Millgate shares his approach to active ageing through heavy resistance training and professional sports technology. Moving away from a traditional cautious approach to senior health, Neil discusses how working with physiotherapist Liam Potter at Sydney's Worrywood Brook Aged Care facility has allowed him to treat himself like an elite athlete. The conversation explores the origins of his passion for dragon boating, the importance of team commitment in maintaining a training schedule, and the specific benefits of strength training for core stability and stamina. Neil provides insights into managing injuries, the necessity of consistent physical exertion, and advice for older Australians looking to overcome the intimidation of starting new, intense fitness regimens.

In this episode of Healthy Living, psychiatrist Dr. Tanvir Ahmed discusses the rising prevalence and clinical invisibility of eating disorders among men. Despite a significant increase in hospital admissions and an estimated 365,000 Australian men living with these conditions, male presentations often fall outside traditional diagnostic categories like anorexia or bulimia. The conversation explores the phenomenon of bigorexia, where the focus on extreme muscularity and leanness intersects with modern ideas of masculinity. Dr. Ahmed highlights the lack of specialized training among healthcare professionals and the impact of online trends on body image distortion, offering guidance on how to identify when food and exercise-related behaviors begin to interfere with daily life.

Professor Declan Murphy, Director of Genitourinary Oncology at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, discusses the evolving landscape of prostate cancer detection in Australia. The conversation covers the recent updates to national PSA testing guidelines, which now encourage GPs to proactively discuss testing with men aged 50 and older, or those aged 45 with a family history. The discussion also addresses the removal of digital rectal examinations from standard screening protocols in favor of blood tests. The episode highlights the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia's (PCFA) efforts to address the survival gap between metropolitan and regional Australian men. Through the launch of the Profiled Plan, a five-year initiative, the PCFA aims to improve access to specialist nursing and telehealth services. The discussion concludes with practical advice for men regarding risk assessment and the importance of initiating conversations with healthcare providers.

In this episode of Healthy Living, host Adam sits down with Bryce Perrin, CEO and founder of CPAP Direct, to explore the science of sleep and the impact of sleep apnea. The discussion delves into the neurological functions of non-REM and REM sleep cycles, explaining how the brain processes memories, regulates emotions, and clears toxins during rest. Perrin shares his personal journey with a diagnosis of sleep apnea and provides practical insights into the role of adenosine and sleep pressure in daily fatigue. The conversation covers actionable tips for maximizing sleep quality, such as maintaining consistent routines and managing caffeine and alcohol intake, while outlining the steps to take if persistent tiredness suggests an underlying sleep disorder.

This episode explores the complex relationship between body composition, GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, and obstructive sleep apnea. Guest Bryce Perrin, CEO of CPAP Direct, addresses common misconceptions regarding age and weight as the sole drivers of sleep apnea, highlighting how muscle density and airway anatomy play significant roles. The discussion also examines the potential for GLP-1 medications to reduce the severity of sleep apnea symptoms through weight loss while emphasizing that these drugs are not a replacement for gold-standard treatments like CPAP. Listeners will learn about the importance of physician-guided weight loss, the risks of losing lean muscle mass, and the necessity of professional sleep testing for diagnosis.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Ross Walker and guests explore groundbreaking medical advancements, including the unexpected cardiovascular and anti-cancer benefits of PDE5 inhibitors and the potential of PROTAC drugs to destroy rather than just block proteins. The discussion also covers new developments in shoulder arthritis treatment using pyrocarbon materials and the efficacy of secukinumab as an alternative to steroids for treating polymyalgia rheumatica. The episode features a wide range of listener Q&A sessions addressing topics from post-chemotherapy coughs and managing alcohol withdrawal to the impact of multivitamins on quality of life. Additionally, the President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia discusses the expanding role of community pharmacists in treating minor ailments to relieve pressure on emergency departments, concluding with a celebration of 2GB's 100th anniversary.

In this episode of Healthy Living, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Greg Hoy discusses advancements in joint replacement technology, specifically focusing on the use of bioinvisible pyrocarbon implants for shoulder resurfacing. The discussion covers how pyrocarbon's unique microscopic smoothness and boundary lubrication properties allow the body to treat it like natural tissue, potentially offering long-lasting relief for patients as young as 29. Dr. Hoy also explores the evolution of materials in orthopedics, including the transition from traditional plastics to highly cross-linked plastics infused with Vitamin E to extend the lifespan of implants. The conversation touches upon the challenges of modern commercialization, such as the discontinuation of certain pure pyrocarbon devices, and the clinical implications of using metal stems versus resurfacing techniques. Additionally, Dr. Hoy highlights how new materials are changing the prognosis for younger patients with arthritis, moving away from the era where surgery was deferred due to concerns over implant longevity.

As Australian emergency departments face unprecedented pressure with record-breaking patient numbers and extreme wait times, a new initiative is empowering community pharmacists to manage minor health conditions. Trent Toomey, President of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, discusses how upskilled pharmacists can now diagnose and initiate therapy for ailments such as shingles, skin infections, and ear infections, as well as managing hormonal contraception. The episode explores the expansion of pharmacy services across states and territories, the use of digital tools like findapharmacy.com.au to locate providers, and the ongoing efforts to harmonize regulations nationwide. The discussion highlights how leveraging the expertise of pharmacists can alleviate the burden on hospitals and ensure patients receive timely care for non-emergency issues.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Adam Buncher and Dr. Ross Walker explore the complex landscape of modern medicine, from the cardiovascular benefits and risks of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic to breakthroughs in gene therapy for ALS and pancreatic cancer vaccines. The discussion also covers practical health advice, including managing knee inflammation, the impact of lifestyle on hormonal balance during perimenopause, and the lack of evidence linking electric vehicle EMFs to health harms. The episode further delves into significant public health concerns, such as the mortality risks associated with obesity and vitamin D deficiency, the potential for pesticides to increase ALS risk, and the dangers of microplastics in fetal development. The conversation concludes with an look into the future of mental health through advancements in psychedelic-assisted therapy and engineered compounds designed to provide therapeutic benefits without gastrointestinal side effects.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Walker interviews Robin Llewellyn, author of Flow Well, Be Well, to discuss the critical connection between the nervous system and female hormonal health. Llewellyn argues that the current conversation around perimenopause is often delayed by decades, missing the opportunity to address how chronic survival mode and fight-or-flight responses in a woman's 20s and 30s impact her long-term health. The discussion explores how stress-induced cortisol production can deplete progesterone levels, leading to symptoms like anxiety, disrupted sleep, and heavy periods. Llewelly and Dr. Walker also delve into the concept of estrogen dominance and the importance of moving away from a masculine-coded, high-intensity lifestyle toward a model that respects biological rhythms. Llewellyn introduces her simplified approach to cycle tracking, focusing on two distinct phases—energy and nurture—to help women avoid burnout and find hormonal balance.

In this episode of Healthy Living, host and cardiologist discuss a landmark new health plan unveiled at Parliament House aimed at addressing the rising tide of preventable chronic disease in Australia. Featuring Ken Griffin, CEO of AusActive, the conversation explores a proposed GP to gym referral model designed to transform vague clinical advice into a structured healthcare pathway. The discussion covers the economic impact of chronic disease, the importance of risk profiling in exercise prescription, and how the Million Moves campaign provides accessible fitness opportunities. The episode also examines the potential for integrating structured exercise with new medical treatments like GLP-1 weight loss medications to maximize patient benefits. Griffin outlines the necessity of government-funded pilot programs to move from theoretical white papers to real-world implementation, emphasizing a shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention within the Australian healthcare system.

This episode discusses a groundbreaking study featured in Nature Medicine regarding a double neural bypass technology designed to treat complete spinal cord injuries. Dr. Ben Herbert explains how a hybrid brain-computer interface (BCI) system, combined with artificial intelligence and electrical stimulation, enabled a quadriplegic patient to regain hand function, strength, and sensation. The discussion explores the mechanics of reading motor intentions and writing sensory feedback through electrode arrays in the motor and sensory cortex. The conversation further examines the implications for neuroplasticity and potential applications for stroke rehabilitation using cortical mirroring techniques. While the current implementation involves intensive, high-cost surgical procedures and long-term clinical supervision, the study serves as a vital proof of concept for driving neural regeneration and amplifying surviving pathways in patients with neurological damage.

In this episode of Healthy Living, hosts Adam Buncher and Dr. Ross Walker explore a wide range of medical developments, from the neurological impacts of sugar consumption and the debate over sugar taxes to breakthroughs in spinal cord injury recovery using brain-computer interfaces. The discussion also covers the prevalence of tuberculosis in Australia, the safety of colonoscopies, and the cardiovascular implications of caffeine intake. The show features various listener inquiries regarding statin use, prostate symptoms, and hypercalcemia, alongside updates on pediatric health issues like tooth decay and new clinical trials for food allergy treatments. Additionally, the episode examines the potential of wearable technology for continuous biomarker monitoring and the role of GLP-1 medications in managing sleep apnea severity.

In this episode, infectious diseases physician Professor Clay Gollage discusses the persistent threat of tuberculosis in Australia and globally. While often perceived as a disease of the past, TB remains a significant public health issue, with an estimated one million Australians living with latent tuberculosis. The discussion covers the distinction between latent and active disease, the physiological impact of mycobacterium tuberculosis on various organs, and the risk factors that can trigger reactivation, such as immune suppression and malnutrition. The conversation also explores modern diagnostic methods like the IGRA blood test, standard pharmaceutical treatment regimens involving drugs like isoniazid and rifampicin, and the challenges of vaccine development. Additionally, the episode addresses broader public health concerns, including the necessity of tetanus boosters and recent diphtheria outbreaks in Australia.

In this episode, hosts Adam Buncher and Dr. Ross Walker explore critical health metrics and medical advancements, beginning with a critique of the BMI in favor of more accurate alternatives like the waist-to-height ratio. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including new research into the potential reversibility of Alzheimer's disease through personalized medicine, breakthroughs in melanoma treatments, and the impact of different types of sitting on brain health. The episode also features listener Q&A sessions addressing cardiovascular concerns, shingles recovery, and the dangers of delaying bathroom breaks. Finally, the conversation delves into the developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD), the importance of global aging research through the PROSPER initiative, and promising new clinical trials for managing celiac disease.

In this episode of Healthy Living, host Ross interviews Associate Professor Vincent Ho, a clinical trial investigator, regarding advancements in celiac disease treatment. The discussion focuses on the challenges of accidental gluten exposure due to cross-contamination and the potential for a new investigational drug, DONQ52, to act as a safety net. Professor Ho explains that while the medication is not a replacement for a strict gluten-free diet, it aims to block the immune response triggered by small amounts of gluten. The conversation also covers the current state of clinical trials, the safety profile of existing research, and upcoming information available at the Gluten-Free Expo in Sydney.

In this episode of Healthy Living, Dr. Sandra Elmer from the Urological Society of Australia and New Zealand discusses the physiological and psychological consequences of delaying urination. The conversation explores how chronic bladder overstretching can lead to muscle scarring, urinary tract infections, and kidney damage, particularly in adults facing long meetings or demanding professions like truck driving. The discussion also addresses the impact of restrictive bathroom policies on primary school children, noting the potential for social anxiety and long-term toilet avoidance. Dr. Elmer provides guidance on maintaining healthy fluid intake, managing bladder health through scheduled voiding, and outlines medical interventions ranging from pelvic floor physiotherapy to neuromodulation technology.

In this episode of Healthy Living, host Ross interviews Dr. Sarah Stephens, a specialist in early Alzheimer's prevention and intervention, regarding groundbreaking research into reversing cognitive decline. The discussion focuses on recent US-based clinical trials utilizing personalized precision medicine protocols that have shown statistically significant improvements in cognitive function for individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Dr. Stephens explores the various drivers of neurodegeneration, including insulin resistance, mycotoxins from mold exposure, and nutrient deficiencies such as Vitamin D and B vitamins. The conversation also covers the utility of the pTau 217 blood test as a screening tool for detecting neuronal degradation and the importance of identifying individual biological stressors through comprehensive testing.

Dr. Ross Walker returns to discuss critical advancements in dementia prevention, focusing on the glymphatic system's role in brain cleaning and the importance of a multi-faceted lifestyle approach. The episode also features an in-depth look at cholesterol with Dr. Warwick Bishop, exploring the complexities of LDL/HDL particles and genetic influences on arterial health. The discussion extends to modern medical breakthroughs, including next-generation GLP-1 drugs, bioresorbable implants, and a promising single-dose malaria treatment. The program concludes with an exploration of the genetics behind depression and anxiety, examining how environmental triggers interact with polygenic predispositions.

In this episode, host Ross discusses a groundbreaking study from the University of Barcelona regarding the RBFOX1 gene, which acts as a master regulator for nearly 20 genes linked to depression, anxiety, and neuroticism. Dr. Tanvir Ahmed explains how this genetic network functions like an orchestra conductor, coordinating brain functions and explaining why various mental health conditions often co-occur. The conversation explores the interplay between genetics and environment, noting that while genes may load the gun, environmental stressors or biological changes act as the trigger. The discussion also touches on the future of psychiatry, including the potential for targeted gene therapies and personalized medicine based on an individual's genetic profile.

As global progress against malaria stalls and drug resistance rises, a novel compound known as MMV367GSK3772701 has shown promising results in early human trials. Associate Professor Bridget Barber from QIMR Berghofer discusses how this experimental drug targets two specific enzymes to clear parasites from the bloodstream with a speed comparable to current frontline treatments. The discussion covers the potential for single-dose administration to improve patient compliance and reduce transmission risks. While initial safety signals in healthy volunteers are reassuring, further testing in larger studies, specifically involving patients in Africa, children, and pregnant women, is required as the drug progresses through development.

Cardiologist Dr. Warwick Bishop joins the program to discuss his new book, Cholesterol Explained, which aims to demystify the complexities of lipid profiles and heart health. The conversation explores the distinction between cholesterol molecules and their transport particles, specifically focusing on the roles of LDL and HDL. Dr. Bishop addresses common myths regarding dietary cholesterol versus genetic predisposition and discusses how saturated fats can alter biological set points. The episode also touches upon the importance of personalized medicine through imaging tools like calcium scoring to assess actual arterial plaque. Additionally, the discussion extends to cellular health, examining the decline of NAD Plus levels with age and its potential implications for energy production, DNA repair, and conditions such as chronic fatigue and cardiac failure.

Tanveer Ahmed speaks Dr Clay Golledge about Bird Flu and its potential impact on Australians. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to Healthy Living with Dr Tanveer Ahmed and Adam Buncher, the full show podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed speaks with forensic psychologist Dr Kim Dilati who has spent years exploring whether hip-hop music - writing lyrics, creating beats and telling personal stories through rap can be used and an adjunct to traditional therapy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed speaks with Dr Brendan Dyett from RMIT about the new study advances dry mRNA vaccine patches. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveer Ahmed speaks with the Director of Infectious Diseases at Mater Health Services, Prof Paul Griffinabout the dangers of RSV to elderly Australians. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Tanveeer Ahmed speaks with Fish Oil Dr Joanna Harnett from Sydney Universoty Fish OIl about supplements and Brain Health See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen to Healthy Living with Dr Tanveer Ahmed and Adam Buncher, the full show podcast. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.