Patient Power - Medical Information and Resources

Cancer & Diabetes

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Cancer and the treatment of cancer may put you at risk for Diabetes. M. D. Anderson’s Internal Medicine Department has specialists who see only patients with cancer and diabetes, and work alongside oncologists to determine the best treatment plan for each patient.

Mind-Body Syndrome: An Alternative Method of Healing Chronic Pain

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this podcast, Dr. Stracks will explain how understanding the mind-body connection can help heal everything from occasional aches and pains to more severe, chronic pain syndromes. A healing program will be outlined, along with self-treatment strategies designed to help keep people comfortable and pain-free.

Comentario de español: Consejos para Adultos con PKU: Mejorando su Vida al Regresar a la Dieta

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

En este programa, comentamos acerca de las limitaciones que se pueden encontrar al retornar a la dieta fenilcetonúrica de adulto y que instrumentos nuevos existen para regresar a la dieta.

Comentario de español: PKU y el EMBARAZO: Disminuya los Riesgos y Tenga un Bebé Sano

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Comentamos acerca de varios mensajes importantes que las mujeres con fenilcetonuria que piensan tener una familia deben considerar, incluyendo el impacto que el nivel de fenilalanina puede tener en la madre y el bebé durante el embarazo y cómo puede disminuir el riesgo de tener complicaciones relacionadas a la fenilcetonuria y tener un bebé saludable.

Comentario de español: Logre una Mejor Salud con la Dieta PKU: ¿Qué Hay de Nuevo?

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Este programa se enfoca en la importancia de planear su dieta fenilcetonúrica con alimentos que sean saludables y con una fórmula metabólica que le sea agradable al paladar. Escuchamos las experiencias de una familia hispana con una niña que tiene fenilcetonuria.

Cancer and Bone Health

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Declining bone health is common as people age, but cancer treatment may also cause loss of bone mass. In this program, learn about the risks and symptoms of osteoporosis, and the steps you can take to promote strong, healthy bones during and after cancer.

Young Adults with Hip Pain

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this podcast, Dr. Dolan will discuss hip pain, including typical symptoms, when to seek evaluation and treatment and details about femoroacetabular impingement. Dr. Dolan also will describe indications and risks of hip arthroscopy, resurfacing and replacement and explain non-operative and conservative treatments for young adults with hip pain.

Participatory Evidence: Opportunities & Threats

Wed, 4 Aug 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In medicine, evidence separates modern scientific treatment from Folk Art. Medical evidence is acquired through observation, experimentation, and information sharing in scientific peer-reviewed journals. When new treatments are used, millions of patients around the world provide additional evidence for what works and what doesn't. In our new world of instant information exchange and empowered patients, how are clinicians and empowered patients challenging traditional ways to collect, evaluate, and publish evidence? What evidence should we trust? This program, moderated by Peter Frishauf, frames the issues and proposes at least one solution to sorting through the evidence puzzle.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse: What Can I Do About This Problem?

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this podcast, Dr. Lewicky-Gaupp will explain what pelvic organ prolapse is, symptoms, how it is diagnosed and who is susceptible to it. She also will address non-surgical and surgical treatment options.

Advances in the Treatment of Adrenal Cancer

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Adrenal cancer is very rare, affecting only 200-300 people annually in the United States. Join Dr. Habra and Dr. Sellin to learn more about the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for this cancer.

Cancer Genetics

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Genetics can impact your risk for cancer. How can you learn your risk? Where do you start? In this program two leading experts from the Cancer Genetics Program at Northwestern, Dr. Lee Shulman and genetic counselor, Taya Fallen, help you to learn how genetic testing can benefit you and, possibly, prevent cancer.

Robotic Assisted Surgery: Expanding Treatment Options

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this Patient Power program sponsored by UW Medicine, Dr. Eduardo Mendez will discuss the robotic assisted surgery. He will talk about the advances being made and how this type of surgery is expanding treatment options for many. Also joining the program is Lydia Miner. Lydia was diagnosed with a head and neck cancer that was thought to be inoperable until Dr. Mendez stepped in. Hear her story and more.

Robotic Surgery: Innovative Approaches to Head and Neck Cancer

Thu, 8 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Lessons from One Woman’s Story

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

On this Patient Power Health Issues program, Andrew and Peter interview Annie Fonfa, a breast cancer survivor, patient advocate and founder of The Annie Appleseed Project. After having surgery and multiple recurrences of her cancer, Annie sought alternative therapies and found success. She explains how her organization is helping people to think more holistically when it comes to medical treatment, rather than always following the conventional path. There is much skepticism behind alternative therapies, and often for good reason. Andrew and Peter open the door for discussion between patients and providers about where alternative therapies fit into the treatment landscape and how to find the best course of treatment for each patient.

Understanding Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is when the left side of the heart, the part that pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body, is underdeveloped. In this program a leading cardiologist from UCSF Children's Hospital will discuss how this condition is diagnosed and treated. You will also hear from the Stephanie, her daughter, Olivia, was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and is doing well today thanks to her treatment at UCSF Children's.

Updates on Lung Cancer

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

New treatments for lung cancer are constantly being investigated. In this program, Dr. Edward Kim discusses the latest in lung cancer treatment. You’ll also hear from Nicholas, a patient that has benefitted from treatment.

The Latest Myeloma Updates from ASCO

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Dr. Paul Richardson from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and Dr. Sergio Giralt, from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center both recently returned from the American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting in Chicago. They share the latest news, what they are excited about, and answer questions submitted by myeloma community. The expert guests are joined by Mike Katz, a savvy myeloma patient and leader of ACOR's myeloma online community. More interviews from the 2010 ASCO meeting can be found at <a href="http://www.patientpower.info/asco" target="_blank" class="normallink">www.patientpower.info/asco</a>.

Shoulder Arthritis and Shoulder Replacement Surgery

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

How common is shoulder arthritis and how is it treated? In this program, Dr. Matthew Saltzman, an orthopedic surgeon from Northwestern Memorial Hospital, will discuss total shoulder replacement as a treatment option. Learn about who the surgery is right for, types of shoulder replacement and the recovery period. You’ll also here from a man who has had the procedure.

Are generic medicines just as good as brand names?

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

What is the difference between brand name medicines and generic ones? Why the price difference? Is one better than the other? Joining this Health Issues program is Dr. Tom Sawyer, owner and principal of Health Directions Consulting, a company assisting healthcare organizations improve their financial, operational and strategic performance. Dr. Sawyer focuses on the benefits of various drugs, cost savings for brand vs. generic, and other key differences between brand named and generic drugs that are important for consumers to know.

Keeping Your Bones Strong for Life

Thu, 10 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Osteoporosis affects people of all ages. What is the latest research related to maintaining healthy bones and possible causes of osteoporosis? If you are diagnosed with some form of osteoporosis, what are your options? Are there available treatments? Is it reversible? In this Patient Power program, sponsored by the Washington Osteoporosis Coalition, Dr. Julie Carkin, a rheumatologist at The Seattle Arthritis Clinic, and Ms. Kori Dewing, a rheumatology nurse practitioner at Virginia Mason Medical Center, provide advice and tips for maintaining bone health for life. These osteoporosis experts discuss prevention and treatment, as well as diseases that increase your risk for osteoporosis, and what you can do to manage the health of your bones.

Proton Therapy for Pediatric Cancer

Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

What is proton therapy? How is this cancer treatment option different than others? In this program, you’ll hear from Dr. Anita Mahajan, a radiation oncologist at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, and the mother of an 8-year-old brain tumor survivor as they discuss the latest in proton therapy for pediatric cancers.

Vascular Malformations of the Brain: Diagnosis, Natural History and Management Strategies

Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Arteriovenous Malformations (AVM) can wreak havoc on the circulatory system and account for two percent of all strokes. Any sign of AVM is a cause for immediate medical attention. In this program, a leading neurological surgeon will discuss all types of vascular malformations in the brain, how they are diagnosed and managed, and advanced treatment options and surgical procedures.

Should the food industry be more regulated for better health?

Fri, 4 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Rise in health care costs have largely been attributed to the rise in obesity among adults and children over the past decade. Should the food industry be placed at higher standards and more stringent production guidelines? Are some food labels misleading? On this Patient Power Health Issues program, Dr. Michael F. Jacobson, co-founder and executive director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), joins Andrew and Peter for a discussion that is sure to have you paying attention to the fine print.

Lung Transplant: Advanced Treatment for Lung Diseases

Tue, 1 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Lung transplants are the most advanced treatment for patients with severe diseases of the lung, and usually a last resort treatment option. In this program, Dr. Lorriana Leard, a pulmonologist from UCSF Medical Center and a transplant recipient will discuss the procedure and recovery for lung transplant.

Asthma & Allergies: How to Get Relief

Mon, 31 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

When is a cough or a sniffle not just a cold? If you have a cold that seems to last long after everyone else has gotten better, or relapsing nasal or chest congestion, the problem may be seasonal allergies, or even asthma. In this program, experts from UW Medicine Neighborhood Clinics, will discuss the symptoms and risk factors for asthma and allergies. Listen in to learn more about allergies and how you can get relief.

How Can We End the Shortage of Primary Care Doctors?

Fri, 28 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

With the passage of Healthcare Reform legislation and 32 million new people who will have health insurance, there are concerns we will be 40,000 primary care doctors short. Even now some people can’t find a primary care provider who has room for them in their practice. In this program Andrew and Peter discuss the problem and the possible solutions with one of the leaders of the nation’s #1 primary care training programs at the University of Washington. We also hear why a third year medical student is planning to be a primary care doctor, even if it means less income.<a href="http://www.patientpower.info/health-issues/program.asp?showID=PPHI052810&autoplay=1" target="_blank" class="normallink">LISTEN NOW</a>

Controlling Asthma & Allergies

Fri, 28 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Personalized Medicine for Asthma

Tue, 25 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this podcast, Dr. Greenberger will define personalized medicine and explain how it applies to care for patients with asthma. There are many asthma treatment options and each patient responds differently. Dr. Greenberger will discuss how a personalized treatment plan is created for each patient. He will also discuss other causes of asthmatic symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.

The Evolving Role of Active Surveillance as a Treatment Plan for Prostate Cancer

Wed, 19 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Most of us have heard the saying, “more men die with prostate cancer than of it.” On this episode of Patient Power sponsored by the <a href="http://www.seattlecca.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Seattle Cancer Care Alliance</a> (SCCA), Dr. Daniel Lin, an expert on the ground floor of the research will help listeners to understand who needs to be on active surveillance and what studies are improving surveillance methods. Dr. Lin is an Associate Professor and Chief of Urologic Oncology in the Department of Urology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. He leads several multi-institutional <a href="http://depts.washington.edu/uroweb/research/labs/lin.html" target="_blank" class="normallink">clinical trials</a> in prostate cancer and receives funding for translational research with a specific focus on prostate cancer progression and prevention. Dr. Lin’s patients Lee and Stephen, who both chose active surveillance, also join the discussion to share why they favored active surveillance over aggressive treatment. Lee, a resident of Seattle, Washington, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in February 2007. His father passed away from prostate cancer after waiting too long to see a physician, so Lee knew the importance of acting quickly. Lee did his research and is currently on active surveillance and considers himself to be quite “lucky.” Like Lee, Dr. Stephen Gloyd was also recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. His PSA levels were sporadic, so with much understanding and research behind him, careful watchful and waiting vs. aggressive intervention was his preferred option. Dr. Gloyd is currently in an active surveillance clinical trial where the cancer is being closely monitored. Dr. Lin defines active surveillance as a individualized treatment for men who are fit for curative therapy, but chose to delay it. So who are the best men for surveillance? Is active surveillance the same as doing nothing? Listen or read about active surveillance, the utility of the PSA, monitoring methods and watchful waiting. If you are interested in learning more about active surveillance for prostate cancer, this program offers a great deal of expertise and knowledge on the subject.

Raising Stroke Awareness: Know the Risk Factors

Mon, 17 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Experts from the UW Medicine Stroke Center at Harborview Medical Center will discuss stroke symptoms and risk factors, why receiving care at a certified stroke center is important to patient outcomes, and the latest treatments for stroke.

America’s Problem with Facing End-of-Life Issues

Fri, 14 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

The controversy behind end-of-life decisions is ever-present in our health system. Is it ethical to go against the wishes of a dying patient? When is end-of-life counseling necessary? Peter and Andrew probe into some of the unknowns, while addressing the controversy with Dr. Robert Martensen, Director of the Office of the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Martensen is author of “A Life Worth Living”, a guide for patients facing tough questions when confronted with serious illness. Don’t miss this provocative discussion as we explore some of the factors faced by health care professionals when working to help patients' families to make informed and ethical end-of-life decisions. We will also identify some of the complex issues that must be considered by doctors and hospitals adjoining the treatment of terminally-ill patients.

Stroke Awareness & Prevention

Fri, 14 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Surgical Treatment of Lung Cancer

Tue, 11 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this podcast, Dr. DeCamp will discuss lung cancer statistics, risk factors, screening, symptoms and diagnostic evaluation. He also will explain the types and stages of lung cancer, treatment options including minimally invasive surgical options, tailored treatment with multidisciplinary care as well as recovery from treatment. Dr. DeCamp also will discuss tobacco’s influence on lung cancer statistics and how significant eliminating exposure to primary and secondary sources of tobacco can be in preventing lung cancer.

Radiation Treatment for Prostate Cancer

Thu, 6 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Radiation is one of the primary treatments for prostate cancer. M. D. Anderson offers a choice of external – Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and proton therapy; as well as internal radiation called brachytherapy. Learn about all three in this informative webcast.

Surgical Treatment for Prostate Cancer

Thu, 6 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Surgery is one of the primary treatment options for prostate cancer. M. D. Anderson offers minimally invasive (robotic) and open prostatectomy. Tune in to find out if you or a loved one might be a good candidate for prostate cancer surgery.

Achieving Better Health While on the PKU Diet: What’s New?

Tue, 4 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

It's no secret that the PKU diet is restrictive, but is it healthy? Although your phe level is well managed, are YOU healthy? In this Patient Power program two dieticians focus on the importance of making smart PKU food choices to maximize overall health and manage weight while maintaining Phe levels. Laurie Bernstein is a registered dietitian and assistant professor in the department of pediatrics and director of IMD Nutrition at <a href="http://www.thechildrenshospital.org" target="_blank" class="normallink">The Children's Hospital</a> in Aurora, Colorado. Maggie Davis is a metabolic dietitian and founder and director of <a href="http://www.livenutrition.com/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Live Nutrition</a> in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The program begins with Gina Valente, Mother of a nine-year-old with PKU. Upon diagnosis, Gina made it her personal mission to learn as much as she could and now she has written a low-protein cookbook Gina Cooks Lo Pro. She is outspoken on the issue and very involved in raising awareness about PKU. Both dietitians then join to discuss weight management, share advice on choosing healthy options in social situations, and the keys to proper nutrition on the PKU diet. They go on to answer a variety of listener questions that address many topics such as aging with PKU, PKU medications such as Kuvan, and exercise. If you or someone you know is searching for information on maintaining a healthy diet with PKU, this program is an information-packed resource.

Logre una Mejor Salud con la Dieta PKU: ¿Que hay de Nuevo?

Tue, 4 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Integrative Preventive Cardiology: Surprising Benefits Combining Natural Options and New Scientific Advances

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Though heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, the condition is largely preventable and in some cases reversible. In this Patient Power program, sponsored by <a href="http://www.nmh.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Northwestern Memorial Hospital</a>, Dr. Stephen Devries will discuss how integrative medicine can prevent heart disease. Dr. Devries is a preventive cardiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The program begins with Willard, a photographer and active 68-year old. Willard had a heart attack in 2003, had a stent put in and was put on many medications to lower his risk of another episode. Willard was not happy with the way the medications made him feel and began seeking alternative treatments. He later connected with Dr. Devries and is very happy with his treatment plan – he’s doing very well today. Dr. Devries then joins in to talk about lifestyle changes and diet to prevent heart disease. He goes on to discuss supplements and integrative medicine as a whole. Dr. Devries answers a variety of listener questions about yoga, flaxseed, and family history of heart disease. In closing, Dr. Devries speaks of the importance of the provider-patient relationship. He states, “I think what generally gets underappreciated is the power that people have to make a difference in their health and to select a provider who matches their philosophy. Together, some very powerful prevention can happen.” If you are serious about learning more about integrative medicine, this program is a useful resource.

Health 2.0: How the Internet Can Make You a Powerful Patient

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

On this episode of Health Issues, we investigate how the internet or "health 2.0" has revolutionized the way patients get their information. Health 2.0 or "the use of social software and light-weight tools to promote collaboration between patients, their caregivers, medical professionals," plays a major role in patient empowerment and for some patients, using such tools has led to self-diagnosis. Our guests Matthew Holt and Indu Subaiya, both co-founders of <a href="http://www.health2con.com/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Health 2.0</a>, join Andrew and Peter for a discussion on the “user- generated phenomenon” turning the once acquiescent patient into a powerful patient.

Advances in the Treatment of Eye Cancer

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Although rare, eye cancer can affect people of all ages, and there are many different types that can affect your eye or your eyelid or surrounding skin, the orbit around your eye. Fortunately, leading experts are finding ways to treat and beat this disease in many cases. In this Patient Power program, sponsored by <a href="http://www.mdanderson.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center</a>, Dr. Bita Esmaeli will discuss how to identify and treat eye cancer. Dr. Esmaeli is an opthalmologist a professor of ophthalmology at M. D. Anderson. The program begins with Jerald Wood, an 84-year-old who was diagnosed with conjunctival melanoma four years ago during a routine eye exam. He was immediately referred to M. D. Anderson where he met Dr. Esmaeli. Dr. Esmaeli was able to perform surgery and successfully treat Jerald’s cancer. Read or listen to this program to learn more about Jerald’s story. Dr. Esmaeli goes on to help listeners understand the different types of eye cancer, how it’s diagnosed and the risk factors for the disease. She explains the various treatment options, and the how vision could be jeopardized. Dr. Esmaeli talks about her hope for the future and her confidence in the team at M. D. Anderson. To quote her “I think the overwhelming majority of our patients indeed are cured if diagnosed early and if treated appropriately. And I think the overwhelming majority of them also keep their eye.” This program is an educational and hopeful look into a rare cancer.

Living a Full and Active Life with Myeloma

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Treating Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

A cancer diagnosis can be scary. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women. The good news is that survival rates today are higher than ever due to advances in diagnosis and treatment. In this program, sponsored by <a href="http://www.ucsfhealth.org" target="_blank" class="normallink">UCSF Medical Center</a>, Dr. Laura Esserman discusses the diagnosis and treatment of locally advanced breast cancer. Dr. Esserman is director of the <a href="http://www.ucsfbreastcarecenter.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Carol Franc Buck Breast Care Center</a> at UCSF Medical Center. The program begins with Dr. Esserman’s patient, Jessica. Jessica had a 9-month old baby and what she thought was a clogged milk duct. It turned out to be stage III breast cancer. She immediately started treatment, and was enrolled in a clinical trial, which she is a big proponent of. To quote Jessica “I felt like my risk of metastatic breast cancer was relatively high, and I was willing to do anything to prevent that from happening. I also sort of knew from being in medicine myself that some of the greatest advances that are going to happen have, you know, still not been FDA approved and I wanted to be a part of just the newest things that were going on.” Dr. Esserman goes on to explain that breast cancer, contrary to popular belief, is not just one disease. Every woman is different and there are a variety of treatment options and clinical trials to treat an individual’s disease. She expounds on the importance of clinical trials and her optimism about the future of breast cancer treatment. If you or someone you know has received a breast cancer diagnosis, this program is a great resource and a hopeful one at that.

Tips for Women Staying Healthy & Active

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

With the busy lives that we all lead, staying healthy and active can be a challenge. In this Patient Power program, sponsored by UW Medicine Neighborhood Clinics, a family doctor and a nurse practitioner share tips about diet, exercise, and maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. Dr. Danielle Debelak is a Family Practitioner and Lynne Munoz is a Nurse Practitioner both at the UW Medicine Woodinville Clinic. The program begins with Rosie, a patient at the UW Medicine Woodinville Clinic. Rosie was devastated when she was diagnosed with diabetes. Ms. Munoz, her Nurse Practitioner, mentioned, in addition to many other encouraging words, that just losing a small amount of weight could make a big impact on her health. When Rosie got home from work that evening her and her husband Randy made a vow to start walking, and they’ve stuck with it for over 4 years. Hear more of her story in this program and <a href="http://www.patientpower.info/p2tv.asp?video=12021909&autoplay=1" target="_blank" class="normallink">Watch</a> Rosie’s Powerful Patient video, <a href="http://www.patientpower.info/p2tv.asp?video=12021909&autoplay=1" target="_blank" class="normallink">here</a>. When making lifestyle changes, the key is to start with small steps. Both Dr. Debelak and Ms. Munoz stress this point and provide further advice for success. They discuss a variety of topics about healthy lifestyle including the need for regular check-ups, incorporating weight-bearing exercise, and how a partner can help to keep you motivated. If you’re interested in making lifestyle changes for health, listen to this program for solid advice and inspiration.

Women Staying Healthy & Active

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

New Hormonal Therapies and Drugs for Prostate Cancer

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

On this episode of Patient Power sponsored by the <a href=" http://www.seattlecca.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Seattle Cancer Care Alliance</a> (SCCA), Andrew and Dr. Bruce Montgomery discuss some of the new approaches and drugs for hormonal therapy in the treatment of prostate cancer. Dr. Montgomery is an oncology specialist in the medical oncology division at <a href="http://uwmedicine.washington.edu/Pages/default.aspx " target="_blank" class="normallink">University of Washington Medical Center</a>; he is also the head of the prostate cancer oncology clinic at the <a href="http://depts.washington.edu/uroweb/ptcare/clinics/oncology_uwmc.html" target="_blank" class="normallink">SCCA Prostate Center</a> in the University of Washington Surgery Pavilion. His patient Robert Brown joins the discussion to share how having participated in a clinical trial seems to have worked for him. Robert Brown, a resident of Bellevue, Washington, and a retired senior manager for Boeing, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007. He was in good health for most of his life until the age of 65 when his PSA levels were elevated. Robert underwent a radical prostatectomy, which lowered his PSA, only to find out the cancer had metastasized. With new trials on the horizon, Dr. Montgomery, suggested he might be a good candidate once the trials became available. After a full month on the ARMOR trial, Robert is delighted to be back exercising three days a week. Giving patients a sense of normalcy, like in the case of Mr. Brown, is always the goal. Andrew and Dr. Montgomery conclude with a discussion on how experts have figured out that even resistant prostate cancer continues to rely on hormonal signaling, and now have multiple drugs in clinical studies targeting the pathways. If you’ve been searching for prostate cancer treatment options, meet an inspiring patient and a knowledgeable expert as we learn about new hormonal therapies and drugs for prostate cancer.

Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: Heart Rhythm Control Without Medicines

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia. Luckily, there are many new treatment options and some that don't involve medicine. In this Patient Power program, sponsored by <a href="http://www.nmh.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Northwestern Memorial Hospital</a>, Dr. Bradley Knight discusses catheter ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation. Dr. Knight is medical director of electrophysiology and electrocardiography at the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern Memorial. The program begins with Robert’s story. Robert’s first symptom was fatigue and wheezing. His doctor diagnosed him with congestive heart failure. After many years on medication, changing medications and going through medications that diminished his quality of life, Robert wanted something new. He found out about the catheter ablation procedure and his wife did the research that led them to Dr. Knight at Northwestern. Robert speaks candidly about his experience and how he’s doing now, after having ablation. Dr. Knight goes on to explain exactly what atrial fibrillation is, including the symptoms and risk factors. He speaks in detail about the medication that is available for treatment and what to do when these medications stop working. Dr. Knight helps listeners to understand how the catheter ablation procedure works and the recovery period. If you or someone you know is considering catheter ablation, this program is a must-listen.

PKU & Pregnancy: Lowering the Risks & Having a Healthy Baby

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Click <a href="http://www.patientpower.info/pku/askaquestionpku.asp?showForm=true" target="_blank" class="normallink">here</a> to sign up to receive more information from the program sponsors and the Patient Power PKU e-newsletter.Can you have a healthy baby if you're living with PKU? Yes, but what support do you need to make it happen? In this Patient Power program, metabolic experts discuss key issues that women with PKU of childbearing age need to know, as well as how to make critical decisions when planning for the future. Dieticians Kathryn Moseley and Eileen Blakely as well as a Mother with PKU share information and experience on PKU and pregnancy. Stephanie Coleman is a Mother of six. She was born with PKU and, at an early age, began learning all she could about PKU and pregnancy. In addition to being a Mother, Stephanie also runs and online support group for women with PKU and is a midwife. Her story is not only filled with a multitude of tips and information, but inspiration too! Both dietitians talk about the impact that Phe levels have on the mother and fetus during pregnancy and how you can lower your risks and have a healthy baby. Ms. Moseley goes on to explain why planning for the pregnancy is critical. Ms. Blakely then details all of the support that is available, and necessary, during pregnancy. So, if you or someone you know has been weighing the options for PKU and pregnancy there is much hope. To quote Eileen Blakely, “I would encourage anyone out there that might be feeling discouraged or thinking that it's not possible to really contact a PKU center just to discuss what new options are out there, because it is possible with planning and even unfortunately if a pregnancy were to occur without.”

PKU y el Embarazo: Disminuya los Riesgos y Tenga un Bebe Sano

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Aggressive Regulation in the Dietary Supplement Industry

Fri, 9 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

In this Patient Power Health Issues program, the discussion focuses on encouraging aggressive regulation in the dietary supplement industry and resources helping consumers to identify the specific content of their supplements. Dr. David Kroll, an academician studying natural products for over 20 years, joins Andrew and Peter for an intriguing talk on how consumers can distinguish the benefits and risks of supplements.

Living with Myeloma

Wed, 7 Apr 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Some cancers are not curable but can be well managed without diminishing the quality of life for patients. Multiple Myeloma is a cancer of your plasma cells, a type of white blood cell present in your bone marrow. In this program, Dr. Tanya Wahl and her patient, Steve, will discuss the diagnosis and treatment of multiple myeloma. Dr. Wahl is a oncologist and Cancer Liaison Physician (CLP) in the Cancer Center at <a href="http://www.overlakehospital.org/" target="_blank" class="normallink">Overlake Hospital Medical Center</a>. At the age of 73, Steve Henkel was opening a window when he popped his shoulder. After a visit to an orthopedic surgeon, they found myeloma in his clavicle during a routine x-ray. It was later discovered that Steve had a rare form of myeloma that was causing his bones to weaken. He was referred to Dr. Wahl and to a radiation oncologist. Steve was treated with radiation, which was not easy for him. Dr. Wahl was by his side through treatment and today remains optimistic about Steve’s full life. Just a few weeks before this program was recorded, Steve was skiing the black diamond at Whistler in Canada. Dr. Wahl begins by discussing the progress being made in myeloma treatment, “Although it is still not a curable disease there is a great deal of optimism that it will be curable some day, and just in the last seven or eight years there have been a number of new treatments made available to patients that have remarkably improved how well we can do by them and how well they can live with the disease.” She goes on to talk about these specific achievements, life after treatment and her hope for the future. If you or someone you know is seeking information about multiple myeloma, this program is truly an inspiration.