Northwestern Medicine Voices Of Better Medicine For 93.9 LITEFM

Northwestern Medicine Voices Of Better Medicine For 93.9 LITEFM

Episodes

December 15, 2025 5 mins
Vaping has surged in popularity, especially among young adults—but what does that mean for our health? In this conversation, Robin Rock sits down with Dr. Ravi Kalhan, Pulmonologist and Director of the Asthma and COPD Program at Northwestern Medicine, to discuss why vaping has grown, its health effects compared to traditional smoking, whether it truly helps people quit, and what resources are available for those ready to stop. Plus...
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Chronic lung diseases like asthma and COPD affect more than 35 million people in the U.S., but treatment options have come a long way. In this conversation, Robin Rock talks with Dr. Ravi Kalhan, Pulmonologist and Director of the Asthma and COPD Program at Northwestern Medicine, about what these conditions are, how they’re diagnosed, and the innovative treatments available today. Plus, hear about exciting research and major advance...
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In this episode, Dr. David Manning breaks down the differences between partial and total knee replacements and shares why these procedures are becoming increasingly common. Learn about cutting-edge techniques like Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery, how Northwestern Medicine evaluates success, and what recovery entails. Whether you're exploring options or supporting a loved one, this episode provides expert guidance on navigating kn...
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Join Robin Rock in conversation with Dr. David Manning, a leading orthopedic surgeon at Northwestern Medicine, as they explore the latest innovations in knee and hip replacements. Discover how these life-changing procedures have evolved, what signs might indicate it's time for surgery, and what recovery looks like today. With nearly 2 million joint replacements performed annually in the U.S., this episode offers valuable insights f...
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In this segment, Dr. Passman talks with Robin Rock about heart rhythm disorders, also known as arrhythmias, which impact an estimated 1.5 to 5% of people in the U.S. He explains what arrhythmias are, how to recognize potential symptoms, and the advanced treatments offered at Northwestern Medicine for even the most complex cases. Dr. Passman also highlights exciting new developments from the Center for Arrhythmia Research aimed at i...
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Dr. Rod Passman, Cardiac Electrophysiologist and Director of the Center for Arrhythmia Research at Northwestern Medicine, joins Robin Rock to discuss atrial fibrillation, a condition affecting more than 2.7 million Americans. He explains what AFib is, the most common symptoms and risk factors, and the treatments available at Northwestern Medicine. Dr. Passman also shares details on a groundbreaking clinical trial his team is leadin...
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In recognition of Achalasia Awareness Month, Dr. Pandolfino explains this rare esophageal disorder, which affects about 1 in 100,000 people. He breaks down what achalasia is, its causes and risk factors, and how it is diagnosed at Northwestern Medicine. Dr. Pandolfino also introduces listeners to the Northwestern Medicine Kenneth C. Griffin Esophageal Center, established in 2023, which has become a global leader in treating complex...
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In this segment, Dr. John Pandolfino, Executive Director of the Digestive Health Institute and Division Chief of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Northwestern Medicine, joins Mick Lee to highlight why the Digestive Health Institute is nationally recognized as a top 10 program in gastroenterology and GI surgery by U.S. News & World Report. Dr. Pandolfino shares an overview of the institute, the complex digestive conditions his...
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Dr. Boots returns to talk with Robin Rock about infertility, a condition that impacts millions of people worldwide. She defines what infertility means for women, explores common causes and risk factors, and shares guidance on when couples should seek medical advice. The segment also touches on lesser-known signs that may indicate reproductive issues and outlines the advanced fertility treatment options available at Northwestern Med...
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In this segment, Dr. Christina Boots, a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Specialist at Northwestern Medicine, joins Robin Rock to discuss PCOS—an often-misunderstood condition affecting nearly 1 in 10 women in the U.S. Dr. Boots explains what PCOS is, its common symptoms, how it's diagnosed, and the potential long-term health risks associated with it. She also highlights the specialized care and individualized treatment o...
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Dr. Robert Brannigan, a leading urologist at Northwestern Medicine, discusses vasectomy—one of the most effective forms of permanent birth control. He breaks down exactly what a vasectomy entails, addresses common concerns and misconceptions about the procedure, and describes what recovery looks like. Dr. Brannigan also discusses vasectomy reversal, and helps couples better understand their family planning options.
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Infertility isn't just a women's health issue—male infertility plays a role in up to half of all cases. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Robert Brannigan, a leading urologist at Northwestern Medicine, joins Robin Rock to explain the causes, risk factors, and treatment options for male infertility. He also shares groundbreaking work being done at Northwestern Medicine in fertility preservation for male cancer patients, offering...
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In this segment, Dr. Yvonne Lee breaks down what rheumatic diseases are and how they differ from traditional arthritis. She highlights common conditions treated at Northwestern Medicine, key symptoms to watch for, and the innovative research being done to advance treatment options in the field.
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Dr. Yvonne Lee, a rheumatologist at Northwestern Medicine, explains rheumatoid arthritis—a chronic autoimmune condition affecting 1.5 million U.S. adults. She discusses common symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, how the condition is diagnosed, risk factors, and the comprehensive treatment options available at Northwestern Medicine.
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Dr. Shailee Shah, a neurologist at Northwestern Medicine, discusses the current state of multiple sclerosis (MS). Dr. Shah explains what MS is, noting that 200 people are diagnosed with the condition each week in the U.S. She covers the different types of MS, potential causes, and the latest research at Northwestern Medicine. Dr. Shah also highlights new treatment options available today compared to 5 or 10 years ago, offering hope...
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Dr. Shailee Shah, a neurologist at Northwestern Medicine, discusses multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition affecting nearly 1 million people in the U.S. Dr. Shah explains what MS is, its most common symptoms, and why eye problems are a significant indicator. She also advises when to see a doctor if MS is suspected, outlines the diagnostic process, and describes the treatment options available at Northwestern Medicine to manage the di...
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Dr. Stepan explains chronic sinusitis, affecting over 28 million Americans annually. She covers symptoms like facial pain and nasal congestion, causes, risk factors, and treatment options, both surgical and nonsurgical. Dr. Stepan also advises on when to seek medical attention.
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In recognition of Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Stepan discusses the rising incidence of head and neck cancers. She explains the development of these cancers, their symptoms, and risk factors. Dr. Stepan also addresses prevention strategies and highlights the importance of early detection. She shares key takeaways for listeners and discusses the common types of head and neck cancers seen in her practice.
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Dr. Ioannis Papagiannis, an endocrinologist at Northwestern Medicine, explains the role of the thyroid and discusses the two main types of thyroid disease: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. He outlines the symptoms of each condition and how they are diagnosed, as well as when it’s important to seek medical advice. Dr. Papagiannis also highlights the risk factors associated with thyroid disease.
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Dr. Ioannis Papagiannis, an endocrinologist at Northwestern Medicine, discusses diabetes, which affects over 38 million people in the U.S. He explains the impact of diabetes on the body and the key differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Dr. Papagiannis also highlights symptoms that suggest it's time to see a doctor and emphasizes lifestyle changes that can help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes.
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