• Episode #6: SCOFF it! Debunking fasting myths before cardiac procedures
    Oct 4 2024

    Welcome back to Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Dr. David Ferreira, a renowned Australian cardiologist, to explore the real necessity of fasting before cardiac procedures.


    We dive into current medical guidelines, the historical reasoning behind them, and the surprising evidence from the recent SCOFF trial that challenges these long-standing practices. You’ll be intrigued to hear why skipping fasting might actually benefit patients' health and improve their overall satisfaction.


    Dr. Ferreira and I also examine how these groundbreaking findings could reshape policy and change the way we approach patient care in the future. We also discuss the importance of questioning traditional medical procedures and how a more compassionate approach can lead to better patient outcomes.


    If you've ever wondered about the "why" behind medical guidelines or are curious about the future of cardiac care, this episode is a must-listen!


    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] – Introduction and a warm welcome to Dr. David Ferreira

    [00:49] – Quick overview of today’s fascinating topic on fasting and cardiac care

    [01:31] – Breaking down the history and status quo of fasting before procedures

    [05:56] – Real-world patient experiences: the challenges and discomfort of fasting

    [08:40] – Unpacking the SCOF Trial: How the study was designed and what it revealed

    [16:20] – What the findings mean for future policies and best practices in medicine

    [21:30] – Fun facts and personal insights from Dr. Ferreira's career in cardiology

    [25:47] – Key takeaways: Why it’s time to rethink fasting before procedures

    [27:38] – Final thoughts, closing remarks, and a call to action to subscribe and share


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!


    Disclaimer:

    The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.




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

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    28 mins
  • Episode #5: Understanding cardiac amyloidosis; from diagnosis to treatment
    Sep 27 2024

    Welcome back to Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Professor Marianna Fontana from the National Amyloidosis Center as we dive deep into the world of cardiac amyloidosis.


    Together, we explore this complex condition, breaking down the two main types—ATTR and AL amyloidosis. Professor Fontana brings her knowledge to explain the symptoms and the critical importance of early diagnosis in managing the disease effectively.


    We also highlight her leadership in the groundbreaking Helios B study, offering new hope for those suffering from cardiomyopathy. If you’re curious about how clinical trials are shaping the future of amyloidosis treatment, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!


    Join us as we explore everything from patient experiences to future breakthroughs, and discover how research is paving the way for better patient outcomes.


    Episode Highlights

    [00:00] Introduction to Cardiac Amyloidosis

    [00:24] Meet Professor Marianna Fontana

    [01:05] Understanding Amyloidosis

    [02:05] The Types of Cardiac Amyloidosis: ATTR vs. AL

    [07:59] Key Symptoms and the Diagnosis Process

    [19:08] When and How Patients Are Referred for Treatment

    [23:56] The Groundbreaking Helios B Study and Its Impact

    [30:07] Insights into Patient Experiences and Future Treatment Directions

    [32:30] Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!


    Disclaimer:

    The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.




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

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    36 mins
  • Episode #4: Does your heart care how much fat you eat?
    Sep 20 2024

    Welcome back to Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this episode, I sit down with Nikola Srnic, a medical student from Alberta, Canada, currently pursuing a PhD at Oxford. Together, we explore a fascinating question: does your heart really care about the fat you eat?


    We dive into the science behind dietary fats - good vs. bad fats -and how they impact your heart and liver health. Nikola shares ground-breaking insights from his research, revealing the surprising truth about how different fats affect the body.


    We also touch on the importance of making informed food choices, the challenges in the Canadian healthcare system, and practical advice for improving cardiovascular health.


    Whether you're curious about your diet or simply want to learn more about fats and heart health, this episode is packed with actionable insights that could change the way you eat!


    Episode Highlights:

    [00:00] - Introduction to today’s topic and guest, Nikola Cernik

    [01:34] - Breaking down what's really in our food

    [03:34] - Good fats vs. bad fats—what you need to know

    [08:22] - The real impact of different fats on your heart and liver

    [10:35] - Nikola’s groundbreaking research on dietary fats

    [24:43] - Practical takeaways for a heart-healthy diet

    [26:36] - Challenges within the Canadian healthcare system

    [29:28] - Final thoughts and actionable advice for your health


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!


    Disclaimer:

    The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.




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

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    31 mins
  • Episode #3: Heart Matters: Bridging the Gap - South Africa vs Europe and the Cardiomyopathy Registry
    Sep 13 2024

    Welcome back to Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this episode, I, your host, Sarah Birkhoelzer, sit down with the inspiring Dr. Sarah Kraus, Senior Clinical Researcher and Doctor of Medicine at the University of Capetown.


    In this episode, we make sense of heart failure, breaking it down in a way that’s easy to understand.


    We also dive into the World Heart Federation’s roadmap for tackling heart failure and explore how care varies around the world. Dr. Krauss offers valuable insights into the challenges of treating heart failure effectively, shedding light on the African Cardiomyopathy and Myocarditis Registry Program and the critical role of women in medical research.


    We discuss the latest treatment options, the importance of patient-centered care, and how social and economic factors can shape health outcomes. Dr. Krauss also shares some heartfelt stories from her practice, highlighting the importance of seeing patients as more than just their symptoms.


    Episode Highlights:

    • [00:00] - Introduction to the Podcast
    • [01:29] - Understanding Heart Failure: Breaking down what heart failure really means.
    • [07:12] - Heart Failure Treatment Options: Exploring the latest ways to manage heart failure.
    • [11:25] - Global Perspectives on Heart Failure: How heart failure care differs around the world.
    • [18:10] - The African Cardiomyopathy and Myocarditis Registry: What it means for heart health in Africa.
    • [23:30] - The Role of Women in Medicine and Research: Celebrating the impact of female medical researchers.
    • [25:41] - Lessons Learned from Patients: Heartwarming stories that remind us of the importance of truly understanding patients.
    • [29:08] - Conclusion and Future Insights: Wrapping up with thoughts on what’s next in heart failure care.


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!




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

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    32 mins
  • Episode #2: Is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy a silent killer?
    Sep 6 2024

    Welcome back to Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this episode, I, your host, Sarah Birkhoelzer, sit down with Professor Chris Kramer, the Vice President of the American College of Cardiology and a renowned Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Virginia.


    Together, we explore the complexities of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), which affects the heart muscle and can lead to serious health issues. We dive deep into the symptoms of HCM, how it differs between men and women, and the importance of early diagnosis. Professor Kramer shares valuable insights on the significance of genetic testing, the impact of family history, and its role in detecting and managing HCM.


    You will also learn about the latest advancements in cardiac MRI research, including findings from a groundbreaking 44-site study. Additionally, Professor Kramer discusses his work in international cardiology collaborations and offers a sneak peek into future research that could change the landscape of cardiovascular care.


    This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in heart health, genetics, or the future of cardiovascular medicine.


    Episode Highlights:

    [01:11] - Understanding Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: What is HCM and why it matters

    [02:27] - Symptoms and Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Exploring the early warning signs and diagnostic techniques

    [03:45] - Mechanisms Behind Symptoms: Understanding how HCM affects the heart

    [07:32] - Diagnostic Steps and Genetic Factors: The role of genetic testing and family history in identifying HCM

    [14:24] - The Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Registry Study: Insights from a 44-site study on cardiac MRI advancements

    [22:17] - Global Cardiovascular Care Initiatives: Professor Kramer’s involvement in international cardiology efforts

    [23:07] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts: Key takeaways and future research directions


    Links & Resources:

    • Learn more about Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy from the American College of Cardiology
    • Discover Professor Chris Kramer's work at the University of Virginia's Cardiovascular Medicine Department


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!




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

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    24 mins
  • Episode #1: Does age matter in cardiology?
    Sep 2 2024

    Welcome back to the Beatwise The Podcast!


    In this episode, I, your host Sarah Birkhoelzer, engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Mike Valentine, the past president of the American College of Cardiology. We delve into the critical issues facing cardiology today, with a particular focus on the current crisis in access to care and the invaluable contributions of the older workforce in the field.


    Key Discussion Points:

    • Understanding Cardiovascular Disease: Exploring the complexities of cardiovascular disease.
    • Diversity in the Cardiology Workforce: Addressing the lack of diversity and its impact on patient outcomes.
    • Challenges in Access to Cardiology Care: Highlighting barriers to accessing cardiology care and the need for systemic change.
    • Retirement and Retention of Experienced Cardiologists: Strategies for retaining older, experienced cardiologists.
    • Flexible Working and Mentorship in Cardiology: Benefits of flexible work conditions and mentorship programs.
    • The Importance of Patient-Physician Communication: Practical advice for improving communication between patients and physicians.
    • Concluding Thoughts and Takeaways: Key takeaways and practical advice for enhancing care in cardiology.


    Join us for this insightful episode as we address the pressing issues in cardiology and highlight the significant role of an older workforce in improving patient care. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and practical advice that can make a difference in the world of cardiology.


    If you enjoyed this episode, please like, rate, and subscribe to Beatwise The Podcast. Your support helps me reach more listeners and continue providing valuable content.


    Don't forget to follow me on social media @sarah.theheartdoc for the latest updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more engaging discussions. Stay connected and be part of our growing community!


    Keywords: cardiology crisis, older workforce in cardiology, cardiology diversity, access to cardiology care, experienced cardiologists, flexible working in healthcare, cardiology mentorship, patient-physician communication, cardiovascular disease.




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

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    29 mins
  • Beatwise The Podcast - Trailer
    Aug 21 2024

    Welcome to Beatwise The Podcast, your home for all things related to your heart and heart health!


    The aim of this podcast is to make medical research not just accessible, but genuinely understandable for everyone.


    I'm Dr. Sarah Birkhoelzer, but you can call me Sarah the Heart Doc. I'm thrilled to be your host and the founder of Beatwise The Podcast.

    With this podcast, I aim to bridge the gap between the world of healthcare professionals and those who truly benefit from their groundbreaking research—patients like you, living with heart disease. Whether you're a patient, a family member, or just curious about heart health, you're in the right place!


    Did you know it can take up to 15 years for research findings to make their way into everyday clinical practice? Not here! We're bringing you the latest and greatest straight from the experts, hot off the press.


    Each week, we dive into a new heart-related topic, breaking down complex medical jargon into easy-to-understand insights that you can apply to your life.


    Don't forget to subscribe and rate 5 stars if you enjoy the podcast—let's spread the word! And be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok @sarah.theheartdoc for even more heart health tips and updates!


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

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    2 mins