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Health Lab

422 episodes - English - Latest episode: 14 days ago - ★★★★ - 5 ratings

Each week on the Health Lab podcast, we share cutting-edge research, practical health information and inspiring stories of survival from Michigan Medicine, the academic medical center for the University of Michigan. You can find all Health Lab articles on our website, and podcast transcripts are linked in each episode.


Health Lab is a part of the Michigan Medicine Podcast Network, and is produced by the Michigan Medicine Department of Communication. You can subscribe to Health Lab on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or wherever you listen to podcasts.


All Health Lab content including health news, best practices and research insights are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional or personalized medical guidance. Always seek the advice of a health care provider for questions about your health and treatment options.


New episodes weekly.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

Fear of the Doctor in Children | Michigan Medicine

December 20, 2018 08:00 - 1 minute - 1.39 MB

Children’s reactions during routine checkups can vary widely based on age and temperament. While some little ones remain calm, others are so distressed that efforts to calm them down dominate the visit. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/6-simple-ways-to-ease-childrens-fears-at-doctor For information regarding your data privacy, visit Acast.com/privacy

Chronic Pain Strategies | Michigan Medicine

December 04, 2018 08:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MB

U-M research suggests coping techniques can help patients lead fuller lives — with or without complete pain relief. For more on this topic visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-management/accepting-chronic-pain-strategies-offer-alternative-to-opioids Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cancer Genetics | Michigan Medicine

November 20, 2018 08:00 - 1 minute - 1.27 MB

Learning about cancer diagnoses of extended family — and the details of their conditions — is a conversation everyone should have. For more information on cancer genetics visit www.RogelCancerCenter.Org/Cancer-Genetics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Flu Shot Can Protect Your Heart | Michigan Medicine

November 12, 2018 08:00 - 1 minute - 955 KB

A flu vaccine can shield you, and those you love, from the virus’ potentially life-threatening effects — including heart attack. For more on this story, visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/getting-a-flu-shot-can-help-protect-your-heart-too. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ponytail Headache Syndrome | Michigan Medicine

November 06, 2018 08:00 - 1 minute - 1.59 MB

There’s a medical explanation for the discomfort some people feel with their hair up. A headache specialist shares who’s at risk and how to cope. For more information about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/lifestyle/why-your-tight-ponytail-causes-a-painful-headache Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Binge-Watching and Sleep | Michigan Medicine

November 02, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.11 MB

Most of us are guilty of streaming countless episodes of a favorite show in one sitting. But the habit can wreak havoc on sleep, research shows. To learn more visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/real-life-walking-dead-binge-watching-can-make-you-a-zombie-study-finds Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Identifying Arthritis Risk in Psoriasis Patients | Michigan Medicine

October 25, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.16 MB

Treatment planning for a painful and potentially disabling condition could be made easier with a new model for assessing genetic risk in people with psoriasis. For more on this story, and others like it, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/genetic-prediction-model-helps-gauge-arthritis-risk-psoriasis-patients Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hearing Aid Inequality | Michigan Medicine

October 18, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 2.38 MB

A national study finds major variations in hearing aid use by race, income and education — but VA insurance coverage levels the playing field. To learn more about this story visit https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/rounds/cost-coverage-and-more-drive-hearing-aid-inequality Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Eating for Heart Health | Michigan Medicine

October 17, 2018 07:00 - 2 minutes - 1.89 MB

Learn what a Michigan Medicine doctor who specializes in heart care eats for breakfast, lunch and dinner — plus a few tips to apply to your own menu. For more information about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/what-a-cardiologist-eats-daily-to-keep-her-heart-healthy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fear of the Doctor in Children

October 16, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.39 MB

Children’s reactions during routine checkups can vary widely based on age and temperament. While some little ones remain calm, others are so distressed that efforts to calm them down dominate the visit. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/6-simple-ways-to-ease-childrens-fears-at-doctor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

October 15, 2018 07:00 - 59 seconds - 932 KB

If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may also be at higher risk of developing the disease. This knowledge can boost surveillance and prevention efforts. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/cancer-care/when-genetic-testing-for-breast-cancer-appropriate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disparities in Life-Threatening Birth Experiences | Michigan Medicine

October 12, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.36 MB

A review of data from millions of U.S. births finds higher rates of dangerous delivery-related conditions in new mothers of color and those with certain underlying health conditions.. For more on this story, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/rounds/study-uncovers-disparities-life-threatening-birth-experiences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Screening for Depression in Young Patients | Michigan Medicine

October 11, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.11 MB

New guidelines addressing adolescent mental health as part of primary care offer many benefits, a U-M expert says. For more on this story, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/rounds/why-pediatricians-should-screen-for-depression-young-patients Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Be Informed | Michigan Medicine

October 10, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.3 MB

Balancing family life and cancer care can be a challenge. A Michigan Medicine counselor offers advice for navigating the process. For more on this story, visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/cancer-care/8-tips-for-coping-after-a-breast-cancer-diagnosis Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How to Spot Signs of Opioid Addiction | Michigan Medicine

October 09, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.27 MB

Doctors use an 11-point checklist to help determine if a person’s opioid use signals a deeper problem. Here’s what they look for. To learn more about this story visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/how-to-spot-signs-of-opioid-addiction Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Genetic Testing Awareness + Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

October 08, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.73 MB

Awareness of genetic testing is low, a new study finds. But an interactive website can help newly diagnosed patients make informed decisions about the practice. For more on this story, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/health-tech/decision-support-tool-boosts-genetic-testing-knowledge-breast-cancer-patients Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diabetes Education + Church Outreach | Michigan Medicine

October 05, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MB

A program that provides peer-to-peer health counseling applies U-M research in a faith-based setting. See how it’s helping parishioners in need. For more on this, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/body-work/a-new-type-of-church-outreach-diabetes-education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Children and Headaches | Michigan Medicine

October 04, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.34 MB

Knowing how to address and treat a child’s headache can help a patient (and parent) feel better. A new Mott poll examines how families approach the issue. For more information about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/what-to-do-when-your-child-has-a-headache. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Older Adults + DNA Tests

October 03, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.27 MB

More than 1 in 10 have had genetic tests ordered by a doctor or ordered them directly, a new survey finds. For more on this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/older-adults-have-high-interest-genetic-testing-and-some-reservations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Misconceptions About Concussions | Michigan Medicine

October 02, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.2 MB

A potential concussion brings questions and sometimes confusion. A Michigan Medicine sports neurologist debunks several myths about the injury. To learn more about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/brain-health/8-common-misconceptions-about-concussions For information regarding your data privacy, visit Acast.com/privacy

Cold in Fall but Warm in Spring? | Michigan Medicine

October 01, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.02 MB

When seasons change, our bodies know to react. But we can perceive the same thermometer reading differently at various times throughout the year. For more on this story, visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/lifestyle/why-a-65-degree-day-feels-cold-fall-but-warm-spring Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chiropractic Treatment and Vision Loss | Michigan Medicine

September 28, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.73 MB

In rare occurrences, forceful manipulation of the neck is linked to a damaging side effect: vision problems and bleeding inside the eye. For more on this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/body-work/examining-ties-between-chiropractic-treatment-and-vision-loss Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curiosity Linked to Academic Performance | Michigan Medicine

September 27, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.11 MB

Promoting curiosity may be a valuable approach to boosting academic performance, particularly for low-income children, analysis finds. For more information about this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/exploring-link-between-childhood-curiosity-and-school-achievement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

School Night Bedtime Tips | Michigan Medicine

September 26, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 2.42 MB

A few more hours of shut-eye can make a big difference for kids, especially during back-to-school season. For more information on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/school-night-bedtime-tips-every-parent-should-know For information regarding your data privacy, visit Acast.com/privacy

The Powerful Urge To Eat | Michigan Medicine

September 25, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.2 MB

Two tiny groups of brain cells, right next to each other, play a key role in driving feeding — and stopping. The brain’s own opioid system also gets involved. For more on this blog, visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/lab-report/full-but-still-feasting-how-urge-to-eat-overpowers-signal-to-stop Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

New Smartphone App Tracks Pain | Michigan Medicine

September 21, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.02 MB

Patient-provided data can help doctors and health care professionals gain a more complete picture on pain. For more on this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/health-tech/tell-your-smartphone-where-it-hurts-new-app-intuitively-tracks-pain Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opioid Prescriptions Rose Despite Limits | Michigan Medicine

September 20, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.41 MB

A new drug policy was meant to curb unnecessary opioid prescriptions. Instead, a new study finds, prescriptions after surgery went up. For more on this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/industry-dx/despite-dea-limits-on-opioids-prescriptions-still-rose Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Medicaid Expansion Boost | Michigan Medicine

September 19, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.39 MB

Health care coverage for low-income patients produces fiscal benefits that include lower unpaid debts, fewer bankruptcies and higher credit scores. Read more at: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/industry-dx/how-medicaid-expansion-gave-enrollees-a-major-financial-boost Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adolescent Sleep | Michigan Medicine

September 18, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MB

Healthy sleep is critical during adolescence, but a nationwide survey finds many parents have sleep-deprived teens at home. For more on this story, visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/10-tips-to-help-your-teen-sleep-better Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Emergency Preparedness | Michigan Medicine

September 17, 2018 07:00 - 2 minutes - 3.28 MB

Disasters happen. Here’s some tips from an ER physician about how to prepare for you and your family: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/hurricanes-fires-floods-its-best-to-be-prepared Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Older Patients + Sedatives | Michigan Medicine

September 13, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.45 MB

Benzodiazepines pose special risks to older adults. New research finds many of those who start taking them aren’t stopping. For more on this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/industry-dx/1-4-older-patients-stay-on-risky-sedative-too-long Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Handling a Picky Eater | Michigan Medicine

September 12, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.09 MB

New research shows parental reactions to picky eating can have long-term effects, for better or worse. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/got-a-picky-eater-try-these-11-tips-at-table

Misconceptions About Concussions | Michigan Medicine

September 07, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.2 MB

A potential concussion brings questions and sometimes confusion. A Michigan Medicine sports neurologist debunks several myths about the injury. To learn more about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/brain-health/8-common-misconceptions-about-concussions

Alcohol-Related Cirrhosis | Michigan Medicine

September 06, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.59 MB

A new review of private insurance data finds that alcohol is a major contributor to cirrhosis cases — and that women drinkers are disproportionately affected. For more information about this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/body-work/study-alcohol-related-cirrhosis-patients-are-sicker-costlier-and-often-female Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mom's Voice Soothes Infants in NICU | Michigan Medicine

September 05, 2018 07:00 - 57 seconds - 909 KB

Infants in the NICU were more likely to stay asleep during recordings of their mothers reading, finds new research. To learn more about this story visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/rounds/moms-voice-may-help-babies-sleep-better-nicu Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brighton Center For Specialty Care | Michigan Medicine

September 04, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.39 MB

We are excited to announce the grand opening of our latest ambulatory care unit, the Brighton Center for Specialty Care. For more information visit http://michmed.org/bcsc Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Affordable Meds and Stroke Survivors | Michigan Medicine

August 31, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.39 MB

Younger stroke survivors are having less trouble paying for medications that can stave off a second stroke, thanks to ACA and expanded Medicaid. For more on this story please visit: https://labblog.uofmhealth.org/industry-dx/affordable-meds-help-younger-stroke-survivors-manage-adherence Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ponytail Headache Syndrome | Michigan Medicine

August 30, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.59 MB

There’s a medical explanation for the discomfort some people feel with their hair up. A headache specialist shares who’s at risk and how to cope. For more information about this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/lifestyle/why-your-tight-ponytail-causes-a-painful-headache For information regarding your data privacy, visit Acast.com/privacy

Control Acid Reflux Symptoms | Michigan Medicine

August 29, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.27 MB

When your acid reflux symptoms are not being controlled by medication, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist to discuss your options, specialists say. For more information on this topic visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/digestive-health/what-to-do-if-ppis-arent-stopping-your-reflux-symptoms Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treating Severe Asthma

August 28, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.3 MB

A Michigan Medicine pulmonologist explains why biologics are becoming a valuable option for some asthma patients. For more information visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-management/how-biologic-injections-help-treat-severe-asthma Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Polluted Air and Kidney Health | Michigan Medicine

August 27, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.09 MB

Of the many well-documented risks of dirty air, one potential danger is lesser known: chronic kidney disease. For more on this story, visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/why-polluted-air-may-be-a-threat-to-your-kidneys Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

School Night Bedtime Tips | Michigan Medicine

August 24, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 2.42 MB

A few more hours of shut-eye can make a big difference for kids, especially during back-to-school season. For more information on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/wellness-prevention/school-night-bedtime-tips-every-parent-should-know

Prepare Your Child for Kindergarten | Michigan Medicine

August 23, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.3 MB

A good start in kindergarten provides a foundation for years of education. How families can prepare for the big day. Read more at: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/5-ways-to-prepare-your-child-for-kindergarten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Male Breast Cancer | Michigan Medicine

August 22, 2018 07:00 - 59 seconds - 932 KB

Everyone knows women face a risk of developing breast cancer. Although far rarer, the disease can surface in men, too. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/cancer-care/breast-cancer-men-what-all-guys-should-know Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Easing Joint Pain | Michigan Medicine

August 21, 2018 07:00 - 57 seconds - 909 KB

Weight loss can do more than reduce joint pain in people who are overweight, a new study has found. Other big health improvements can happen, too. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-management/how-losing-weight-can-relieve-a-host-of-painful-problems Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is a "Widowmaker"? | Michigan Medicine

August 20, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MB

Caused by total blockage in a critical blood vessel, the severe cardiac event can have deadly consequences. For more on this story visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/widowmaker-heart-attack-explained. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Treating Acne | Michigan Medicine

August 17, 2018 07:00 - 54 seconds - 862 KB

Over-the-counter creams and rinses might not be enough to manage breakouts. Acne, after all, is strongly genetic — and there is no definitive cure. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/health-management/how-dermatologists-treat-acne-5-options-explained Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raising Responsible Tweens | Michigan Medicine

August 16, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.36 MB

The arrival of the tween years brings many new challenges for parents. There’s greater independence — but also a heightened risk of trouble. For more on this story visit: https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/childrens-health/5-simple-tips-for-raising-responsible-tweens Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Identifying A Drinking Problem | Michigan Medicine

August 15, 2018 07:00 - 1 minute - 1.11 MB

Doctors consider multiple factors when gauging a patient’s alcohol issues and advising treatment. A Michigan Medicine psychologist explains the approach. For more on this story visit https://healthblog.uofmhealth.org/signs-of-alcohol-use-disorder-perfcon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

U.S. News & World Report | Michigan Medicine

August 14, 2018 07:00 - 44 seconds - 700 KB

Michigan Medicine is ranked among the top 5 hospitals in the nation according to US News & World Report. For more on this story visit http://www.uofmhealth.org/rankings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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