In this third and final deep-dive episode, Nicholas Simmonds highlights the importance of collaborative networks, such as the European Cystic Fibrosis Society (ECFS) Clinical Trials Network, in enabling global clinical trials. He also emphasises the central role of the patient voice in developing new therapies, using CFTR modulators as a key example.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

00:55 – ECFS Network

03:29 – Trial design

04:54 – Therapy frontiers

07:48 – Curative approaches

13:07 – Clinician message

How is cystic fibrosis diagnosis evolving? In this second deep dive, Nicholas Simmonds explores advances in diagnostic tools and shares his experience with the CF registry, highlighting its value as a powerful resource for tracking long-term treatment effectiveness. A must-listen for clinicians and anyone interested in how cystic fibrosis is diagnosed, and how progress is monitored over time.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

00:52 – Adulthood diagnosis

06:00 – Advanced diagnostics

10:37 – Survival variability

15:05 – CF Registry

Nicholas Simmonds joins host Saranya Ravindran for a deep dive into how adult cystic fibrosis (CF) care is evolving. Drawing on decades of experience, he discusses the major shifts in adult CF management, the vulnerable transition from paediatric to adult services, and strategies that ensure a smooth handover. Explore how longer survival brings new challenges, from fertility to mental health and emerging comorbidities, and why continuity of multidisciplinary care is more crucial than ever.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:15 – Adult care

04:12 – Smooth handover

10:10 – Evolving needs

In this rapid-fire episode, Nicholas Simmonds answers key questions about cystic fibrosis (CF), from common misconceptions and the value of registry data to CF testing, and the transition from paediatric to adult care. Perfect for listeners short on time.

In the final part of this deep dive series, David Heymann looks ahead to future threats, from antimicrobial resistance to zoonotic spillovers, and the innovations that offer hope. He discusses next-generation diagnostics and vaccines, the rise of the One Health approach, and the need for better global financing and communication strategies. The episode closes with guidance for future public health leaders.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:40 – Next pandemic

02:29 – Today's threats

04:27 – Diagnostic innovations

05:47 – Vaccine innovations

06:21 – One Health

08:20 – Funding

10:38 – Addressing misinformation

15:42 – Advice for the next generation

In Part 2 of this deep dive series, David Heymann examines how global surveillance systems operate, why international coordination remains difficult, and how eradication efforts, such as those for polio, continue to strengthen health infrastructures. He reflects on the realities of responding in low-resource settings and the tension between rapid emergency interventions and sustainable system-building.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:00 – Disease surveillance

02:44 – International coordination

04:39 – Polio eradication

06:20 – Low-resource settings

08:46 – Rapid response versus capacity building

10:04 – Lessons learnt

David Heymann joins host Jonathan Sackier to reflect on the defining outbreaks that shaped modern epidemiology. He recounts early Ebola investigations, compares SARS-CoV-1 with SARS-CoV-2, and revisits the smallpox eradication campaign. This episode offers rare insights into the field experiences that transformed global preparedness.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction

01:07 – Ebola

05:51 – SARS-CoV-1 versus SARS-CoV-2

08:11 – Smallpox

09:26 – Insights from the field

10:28 – Milestones