Gland Chat with Dr. Roy Eappen

DISCLAMER >>>>>>    The Ditch Lab Coat podcast serves solely for general informational purposes and does not serve as a substitute for professional medical services such as medicine or nursing. It does not establish a doctor/patient relationship, and the use of information from the podcast or linked materials is at the user's own risk. The content does not aim to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and users should promptly seek guidance from healthcare professionals for any medical conditions.  

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Disclosures: Ditch The Lab Coat podcast is produced by (Podkind.co) and is independent of Dr. Bonta's teaching and research roles at McMaster University, Temerty Faculty of Medicine and Queens University. '

Welcome to "Ditch the Lab Coat," where we bring you insightful conversations that peel back the layers of medicine and health. In this episode, Dr. Mark Bonta sits down with the esteemed Dr. Roy Eappen, an adult clinical endocrinologist with over three decades of experience. Together, they dive into a myriad of crucial, and sometimes controversial, topics in endocrinology.

From the risks associated with anabolic steroids to the complexities of thyroid hormone replacement therapy, we explore the delicate balance of hormonal health. Dr. Eappen also shares his expert perspective on the current approaches to gender-affirming care, expressing concerns about the medicalization of children and the long-term consequences of treatments like puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones.

We'll touch on the variability of hormonal levels, the rigid societal stereotypes around gender, and the evolving landscape of transgender medicine. Throughout the episode, Dr. Bonta and Dr. Eappen emphasize the importance of scientific evidence and thoughtful care in addressing these deeply personal and sensitive issues.

Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and sheds light on the ever-changing world of endocrinology. Stay curious, stay informed, and let's ditch the lab coat together!

02:00 Renowned endocrinologist Dr. Roy Epin's impactful career.
05:25 Importance of thyroid gland for health and treatment.
07:30 Thyroid hormone levels and controversies explained briefly.
10:24 TSH levels determine thyroid function, cutoff varies.
13:31 Early detection of hypothyroidism prevents severe developmental effects.
17:16 Steroids can build muscle but cause harm.
20:01 Psychologists affirm care without thorough evaluation.
23:40 Dutch protocol overlooks psychological work with children.
29:17 Sticking to evidence-based practice in healthcare.
32:20 WPATH lawsuits reveal controversial practices and ethical concerns.
36:18 Rita's research on children's suicide risk.
39:21 Caution urged before altering physical appearance.
41:02 Health initiative led to reconsideration of estrogen therapy.
46:41 Complex modern life overwhelms parents, kids. Simplify.
51:11 Limited education in gender affirming care history.
52:12 Understanding historical context in gender affirming care.