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Mayo Clinic Health Matters

Mayo Clinic Health Matters

Mayo Clinic Press 492 Episodes Oct 13, 2026

Mayo Clinic Health Matters brings you the latest medical advice, news and research to help you live a happier, healthier life. Join host Kristen Meinzer in conversation with Mayo Clinic’s leading medical experts as she asks all the questions you’re eager to (or maybe even afraid to) ask, letting curiosity lead the way. Wondering if you might have ADHD? Or how your pet affects your health? Be part of an informative—and fun—discussion about one of the most important topics: your health.

Episodes

Is the gut microbiome overhyped?
Is the gut microbiome overhyped? Oct 13, 2026 2431 The gut microbiome is one of the great medical discoveries of our time. It could revolutionize the way we treat GI issues, autoimmune diseases, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases and even mental health. But has the internet started getting ahead of what the science actually says? On this episode of Health Matters, gastroenterologist Purna Kashyap, M.B.B.S., helps us understand what the research
What to do when you hear “you have cancer”
What to do when you hear “you have cancer” Sep 29, 2026 2325 No one wants to hear their doctor say "you have cancer." But if that happens, the conversation will affect your life for years to come. On this episode of Health Matters, medical oncologist Pooja Advani, M.D., pulls back the curtain on what those early conversations look like and gives us advice on how to handle such an overwhelming diagnosis. Find us online at Mayo Clinic Press for mo
Most strokes are preventable – here’s how
Most strokes are preventable – here’s how Sep 15, 2026 2544 Strokes seem sudden, but they can actually be years in the making. In fact, 80% of strokes are preventable. So what can you do today to help prevent a stroke further down the line? On this episode of Health Matters, we talk with radiologist David Miller, M.D., about the stroke risk factors you can control. Find us online at Mayo Clinic Press for more health and wellness articles, podc
Why sexual pleasure matters for your health
Why sexual pleasure matters for your health Sep 1, 2026 2391 One of the biggest challenges with vaginal health is feeling like we can't talk about it. There’s a lot of shame, embarrassment and misinformation surrounding this part of our bodies. On this episode of Health Matters, we talk with internist and women’s health specialist Jewel Kling, M.D., about everything from anatomy and sexual pleasure to sexual dysfunction. Sign up to receive Mayo Clini
How AI is changing the cancer game
How AI is changing the cancer game Aug 18, 2026 2596 AI is becoming part of everyday life. But doctors have been using and studying AI in medicine long before it entered the mainstream. What promise does AI hold for better cancer care? And what parts of medicine should it never replace? On this episode of Health Matters, we're talking with radiologist Dr. Matthew Callstrom about how he uses AI in his practice, what the research shows and how AI cou
Is drinking bad for you now?
Is drinking bad for you now? Aug 4, 2026 2095 Drinking has been part of life for longer than recorded history. But these days, many are skipping that beer or glass of wine to protect their health. So is drinking totally bad now? And if not, how much is actually OK? On this episode of Health Matters, we're talking with psychiatrist Dr. Bhanu Kolla about the long-term effects of alcohol and whether it's time to break up with drinking. Sign u
Bunions: To treat or not to treat?
Bunions: To treat or not to treat? Jul 21, 2026 2110 Do you see a bony bump when you look down at your feet? If so, you might have a bunion. And if you don’t, you probably want to keep it that way. On this episode of Health Matters, we’re talking with podiatrist Dr. Martin Ellman about how to care for your feet, whether high heels cause bunions and whether it’s actually better to go barefoot. Sign up to receive Mayo Clinic Press emails. 
When you need a hormone panel – and when you don’t
When you need a hormone panel – and when you don’t Jul 7, 2026 2160 It seems like everyone's talking about hormone panels. But are they worth the hype — and the cost? And are your hormones really the problem? On this episode of Health Matters, endocrinologist and women's health expert Dr. Ekta Kapoor explains what a hormone panel can — and can't — tell you about your health. Sign up to receive Mayo Clinic Press emails.  Find us online at Mayo Clinic Press for m
Can you trust health news?
Can you trust health news? Jun 23, 2026 2555 Breaking news! This podcast episode is going to change everything you thought you knew about health … or is it? Catchy headlines and viral videos are everywhere — but can you trust them? On this episode of Health Matters, registered dietitian Joy Heimgartner guides us through all the twists and turns research results can take as they move from the lab to your For You Page. She explains how studie
How to tame chronic inflammation
How to tame chronic inflammation Jun 9, 2026 2175 Some inflammation is helpful, but too much can do more harm than good. These days, chronic inflammation is linked to a wide range of health conditions, from joint pain and digestive issues to heart disease and fatigue. So how do you know whether chronic inflammation is contributing to your health concerns — and what can you do about it? On this episode of Health Matters, we talk with rheumatologi
Liver cancer: Beyond the diagnosis
Liver cancer: Beyond the diagnosis Jun 2, 2026 1777 The liver is the largest internal organ in the human body and the only one with a significant ability to regenerate. But that doesn't mean the liver is invincible. Liver cancer is harder to detect than some other cancers — and challenging to treat. So who is likely to get liver cancer, and how can you reduce your risk? On this episode of Health Matters, we talk with liver and pancreatic surgeon Dr
Are You Prepared for the Next Disaster?
Are You Prepared for the Next Disaster? May 26, 2026 2398 Midwest tornadoes. East Coast hurricanes. West Coast wildfires. Giant earthquakes and towering waves. Emergencies can bring out the biggest challenges — and surprising strengths — in people and healthcare systems alike. So how do you care for your health when your world might literally be falling apart? On this episode of Health Matters, we’re talking with emergency management coordinator Deb Tes

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