Heart Doc VIP with Dr. Joel Kahn

Dr. Joel Kahn dives into a groundbreaking Phase 1 trial of Verve 102, a one-time intravenous gene-editing treatment that silences the PCSK9 gene to produce lasting LDL cholesterol reduction. Among 35 participants, the high-dose group saw LDL drop by 62% with mostly mild side effects — promising results, though Phase 2 and 3 trials and 15 years of follow-up still lie ahead.

Also covered: updated colorectal cancer screening guidelin...

In this episode of HeartDoc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn breaks down the newly released — but not yet fully published — results from the highly anticipated Triumph-1 study on retatrutide, an investigational weight loss medication that's already generating major buzz in the cardiometabolic world.

The reported weight loss results at 80 and 104 weeks are remarkable, with side effects appearing consistent with other medications in this class, in...

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses Bryan Johnson's efforts to reverse his "biological age" and the 41 lessons he has shared along the way. These are valuable insights that Dr. Kahn largely endorses.

Other topics include the sit-to-stand test; how PCOS can become PMOS; therapies for Peyronie's disease and PSA testing; plant-based diets and aging; plant-based diets during pregnancy; pregnancy complications; and the cardiac health of offsp...

This week, Joel Kahn, MD, dives into fascinating new research on aged garlic extract and its potential role in healthy aging, muscle function, and cardiovascular wellness. He reviews a recent study showing how aged garlic extract improved muscle and aging markers in mice while also activating the NAMPT pathway in humans, which may help boost NAD+ production.

Dr. Kahn also breaks down several newer studies highlighting the cardiovas...

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses his long-standing interest in the amino acid glycine and its potential health benefits. Sleep is a key focus, highlighted by a new report on the widespread difficulty adults face in getting a full night's rest. Glycine may also offer favorable cardiovascular support.

Additional topics include coffee and aging, methamphetamines and heart attacks, Lipoprotein(a) and cardiovascular risk, yoga and overall ...

This week, Dr. Kahn reviews new data from the Global Burden of Disease study analyzing the relationship between diet and death from heart disease. In 2023, an estimated 5.9 million deaths worldwide were linked to poor dietary choices, led by excessive sodium intake and insufficient consumption of fruit and whole grains. It's a fascinating and important study with clear takeaways.

Other topics include stents for angina, causes of su...

This week, Dr. Kahn addresses a topic gaining attention in the media: whether taking the shingles vaccine (Shingrix in the USA) may reduce the risk of heart events and dementia. Multiple studies suggest this could be true, although no randomized trials have been performed to confirm it. Furthermore, most of these studies focus on a version of the vaccine that was discontinued in the U.S. in 2020 (Zostavax), making the assumption th...

This week, Dr. Kahn dives into heart disease in "masters athletes," highly active individuals over 35 who train and compete at a serious level. Despite their fitness, research shows they may face equal—or even higher—rates of cardiovascular issues like arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, and aortic dilation. A new consensus statement breaks down what to watch for and recommends advanced screening like EKGs, coronary calcium scans...

This week, Dr. Kahn shares an update on his recovery following robotic mitral valve repair surgery at the Cleveland Clinic. Just 10–12 days post-op, he walks through his experience—from diagnosis and testing to surgery with Marc Gillinov, MD. 

He covers the procedure, time in the ICU, and early recovery milestones, along with what's next in his healing journey.

Thanks to Igennus for sponsoring this episode—visit igennus.com and use...

This week, Dr. Kahn shares exciting updates from the American College of Cardiology meeting, highlighting several new trials focused on reducing heart events in patients with diabetes and those with established heart disease. The results are promising and could help prevent strokes, heart attacks, and even save lives.

Additional topics include vegan diets and cancer risk, heart disease in police officers, the link between Alzheimer...

What if a quick, painless ultrasound could reveal your true vascular age?

In this bonus episode of Heart Doc VIP, host Dr. Joel Kahn sits down with Joseph Ence to discuss CIMT (carotid intima-media thickness)—a simple, non-invasive test used in over 5,000 research studies over the past 20+ years to measure plaque and thickness in the carotid arteries.

Safe and radiation-free, this ultrasound provides valuable insight into your card...

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down new research on dementia risk, including the roles of high blood pressure and early menopause. He looks at conflicting studies on red meat and ApoE4, which pretty much sums up nutrition science: one study says yes, another says absolutely not. For now, limiting red meat—especially processed—is still the safest move.

He also covers the risks of skipping breakfast, calcium CT scoring for elevated lipop...

The replay of the 4th Reversing Heart Disease Summit is going on now. Register here: drtalks.com/summits/reversing-heart-disease

This week, Dr. Kahn addresses the newly published 2026 guidelines for the management of hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), which will be studied and used by medical professionals all over the world. The top 10 takeaways are presented and are similar to the approach used at the Kahn Center for over a decad...

The 4th Reversing Heart Disease Summit began March 7, 2026. There will be a replay available, and the event is free to attend online. Register here: drtalks.com/summits/reversing-heart-disease

This week, Dr. Kahn addresses the recurring posts on social media about nattokinase supplements as a "powerhouse" for reversing atherosclerosis. Is there new data? Is it powerful? Would mainstream medicine accept it? Should you use it? These ...

Join Dr. Kahn for the 4th Reversing Heart Disease Summit beginning March 7, 2026. The event is free to attend online. Register here: drtalks.com/summits/reversing-heart-disease

This week, Dr. Kahn reviews new research examining the connection between red meat consumption and the risk of diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and cancer. He also discusses findings from a large study showing that vegetarian diets are associated with a lower...

This week, Dr. Kahn discusses his current health challenge: a leaky mitral valve due to mitral valve prolapse, a condition of unknown cause that is unrelated to lifestyle or diet. He reviews data on mitral valve surgery, comparing repair to replacement, as well as the current availability of robotic surgery and its advantages. He plans to keep the Heart Doc VIP community updated on his status and is feeling great day to day.

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This week on Heart Doc VIP, Dr. Joel Kahn takes a deep dive into one of the most influential research projects in cardiovascular history: the Framingham Heart Study. Launched in 1948 and still going strong, this landmark study helped identify many of the risk factors we now take for granted, including smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, and physical inactivity. Much of what modern cardiology considers...

This week, Dr. Kahn breaks down a new paper examining the risks and reported side effects of statins—including the surprising finding that placebo alone is linked to many of the same symptoms. He also covers an oral PCSK9 inhibitor currently under study and what it could mean for cholesterol management.

The episode then dives into the latest research on emerging therapies designed to lower lipoprotein(a), including a real-world cas...

This week, Dr. Kahn discussed a case study involving a 30-year-old man with newly discovered, very high cholesterol. The implications of heart disease in young adults—backed by a recent paper from the CARDIA study group—suggest that early intervention, beginning with lifestyle changes, should be offered, along with follow-up lab testing. The Portfolio Diet plan would be a strong starting point on the journey toward a more plant-bas...