Health Yeah! With Monica Robins

The biggest misconception about breast cancer continues to surprise Dr. Megan Miller almost daily in her practice at University Hospitals. "I don't have a family history of breast cancer. Nobody in my family has ever even had a breast problem. Why do I have breast cancer?" Miller, a breast surgical oncologist, hears this question regularly from patients who are shocked by their diagnosis. The reality, she explains, is that the vast majority of breast cancer cases are sporadic events that don't stem from family history or genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2. "Everybody needs to get screened for breast cancer, whether you have a family history or not," Miller emphasized. "If you're a woman and you're age 40 or older, please, please, please get your mammogram once a year." Despite ongoing confusion about mammogram recommendations, Miller points to clear guidance from the American Society of Breast Surgeons and the American Cancer Society: annual mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing as long as a woman's life expectancy makes screening beneficial. "There's not like an age," Miller said, noting there's no specific cutoff at 75 or 80. "It's when your life expectancy is probably less than 10 years." Women with additional risk factors—including dense breast tissue, family history, or previous biopsies showing atypia—should consult with a breast specialist for personalized screening recommendations that may include supplemental MRI imaging. Miller also addressed another area of confusion: monthly breast self-examinations. While some women complain their breast tissue feels "lumpy bumpy," that familiarity is precisely the point. "The idea of the self-exam is that you get to know your own breasts," she explained. "Are they lumpy bumpy in the same way each month? That helps us to know whether there's a change." Breast cancers typically present as hard nodules that feel distinctly different from normal tissue. Other warning signs include spontaneous nipple discharge that is bloody and one-sided, persistent skin rashes that don't respond to antibiotics, or unexplained lumps under the arm. Miller recommends performing self-exams at the same time each month—either when menstruation starts or on the first day of every month—along with annual clinical breast exams by a healthcare provider. Dense breast tissue can make cancers harder to detect on mammograms because both appear white on imaging, while fatty tissue appears black. However, Miller stressed that this doesn't make mammograms ineffective—it just means some women need additional screening tools. Modern breast cancer treatment bears little resemblance to approaches from just 10 to 15 years ago, according to Miller. Early detection through regular screening means most cancers are found at treatable, often curable stages. While nearly all breast cancers still require surgery, far fewer patients need chemotherapy than in the past. Even when chemotherapy is necessary, new technologies like cold cap therapy can significantly reduce hair loss—addressing one of patients' most common concerns. Radiation requirements have also decreased, and many women have choices about surgical approaches. Early-stage disease often allows for lumpectomy rather than mastectomy, meaning women can keep most of their breast tissue. Breast reconstruction has evolved from an afterthought to a standard part of treatment planning. Miller emphasized that reconstruction is not elective cosmetic surgery—federal law mandates insurance coverage for any reconstruction related to breast cancer treatment. Miller predicts that breast cancer treatment will continue trending toward less intervention as therapies become more targeted and effective.

Medical research funding in Northeast Ohio continues to face significant challenges, with federal grant approval rates dropping to historic lows while private donations increasingly fill critical gaps in clinical trial support. Dr. Theodoros Teknos, President and Scientific Director of University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, reports that while NIH and NCI funding levels have remained stable, the competition for grants has intensified dramatically. Currently, only about 8% of submitted grants receive funding, down from approximately 20-22% when he began his career in medicine. "There's no question it's been very stressful because there's been a lot of uncertainty," Teknos said during a recent interview. The low funding rate means approximately 1 in 12 grants gets approved, leaving many important studies without government support. Private philanthropy has become essential to maintaining research momentum. Kathy Coleman's recent $3.5 million gift to the "Because of You: The Campaign for University Hospitals" will fuel expansion of the Kathy and Les Coleman Clinical Trials Center. This donation brings her lifetime giving to more than $14 million, all given in memory of her late husband, former Lubrizol Corp. chairman and CEO Lester Coleman Jr. These funds help offset clinical trial costs, which can range from $50,000 to $100,000 per patient. The funding challenges are particularly concerning for young scientists entering the field. Dr. Teknos notes that many brilliant PhDs are choosing industry careers over academic research due to concerns about securing funding and job security. Despite these challenges, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center continues expanding its clinical trial portfolio. The center currently offers more than 400 clinical trials annually and plans to triple its capacity by 2030. As a member of the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, UH Seidman is one of only seven cancer centers in the country with access to novel drugs from the National Cancer Institute. The institution is developing innovative CAR-T cell therapies through the Wesley Center for Immunotherapy, which can create these specialized cells in just 24 hours compared to the industry standard of 12-30 days. UH is one of only 11 academic medical centers successfully manufacturing CAR-T cells for patient use. Additionally, researchers are advancing theranostic treatments that combine imaging and targeted radiation delivery. Coleman's donation will relocate the clinical trials center into a dedicated 16,000-square-foot space on the main campus, centralizing care and making room for new machinery to expand theranostic investigations. The expansion will also enable University Hospitals to bring phase one clinical trials directly to community locations, making cutting-edge treatments more accessible to patients who cannot travel to the main campus. "Clinical trials are critical for so many reasons," Coleman said. "On a global level, they help advance research and move us closer to cures; but for individuals and families, I know personally the hope they bring." The institution maintains its commitment to serving Northeast Ohio patients while navigating an increasingly competitive research funding environment. More information about the "Because of You" campaign is available at UHGiving.org.

When the Cleveland Browns take the field in London, fans may notice the familiar sights of an NFL game—the blue medical tent, sideline personnel monitoring every play, and medical staff ready to respond at a moment's notice. What they won't see is the months of complex preparation that goes into ensuring player safety remains identical whether a team is playing at home or thousands of miles away.

Men of color face unique health challenges, but help is available. Men of color in Cleveland face a dangerous myth that could be costing lives: the belief that they must "tough it out" until health problems become unbearable before seeking medical care. Dr. Randy Vince, director of minority men's health at University Hospitals in Cleveland, says this mentality prevents early detection of serious conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer—diseases that often show no symptoms until they reach advanced stages. "Usually it does not matter the medical condition when we're talking about hypertension or high blood pressure, diabetes, or even cancer like prostate cancer. You don't have symptoms until things are really advanced," Vince explained during a recent interview. The consequences extend beyond physical health. Suicide rates are increasing among Black men specifically, a trend Vince calls "very preventable" if men can be connected with mental health resources earlier. "The rates of suicide are actually increasing in black men specifically, and so I think if we can start to again dispel this myth that you can tough it out, I don't need to see a mental health professional, we can actually end up saving a lot of men," he said. ## Breaking down barriers to care Vince emphasizes that men need to understand their relationship with healthcare providers differently. "As physicians we work for you," he said, encouraging patients to seek second opinions and find new doctors if they don't feel heard. For men hesitant about traditional doctor visits, Vince points to alternative options. Nurse practitioners and physician assistants can provide primary care services, and most preventative care is covered 100% by insurance with minimal copays. Men facing Medicaid cuts still have options, according to Vince. County boards of health, city resources, and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) can connect patients with care and insurance information. Starting at age 40, men should prioritize specific health screenings, Vince advises. Blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings, and cholesterol tests form the foundation of preventative care. Colon cancer and prostate cancer screenings become essential as these are "major cancer killers" with high survival rates when caught early. Mental health deserves equal attention. Vince recommends men start with resources they trust, including faith-based organizations that can connect them with professional help. "Depression, for instance, or anxiety, that is not abnormal," Vince said. "Many men face that, so I think if they can realize that this is not abnormal and you don't have to try to tough it out, you're not in this battle alone." Social determinants of health—factors like poverty, housing conditions, and access to nutritious food—significantly impact both physical and mental wellbeing. Vince points to environmental pollution causing respiratory conditions and limited access to healthy foods as examples of how external factors affect health regardless of medical care. "These social determinants of health all impact our health and it's despite whether or not you just go to the doctor or not," he explained. The stigma around mental health treatment is slowly lifting in communities, but "not fast enough," according to Vince. He encourages men to understand that seeking help demonstrates strength, not weakness. "Leaning into your struggles actually takes a lot of strength, not weakness," he said.

Researchers have conducted a rigorous clinical trial examining LSD as a treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, with results published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showing promising outcomes for patients who have struggled to find relief with existing medications. Cleveland Clinic psychiatrist Dr. Brian Barnett, who participated in the multi-site study, says the findings address a critical gap in mental health treatment. About one-third of patients with psychiatric conditions don't respond to any existing treatments, affecting millions of Americans with depression, anxiety and other disorders. "Our existing treatments, there's a little variability depending on the particular condition, but generally about a third of patients with a particular condition will not respond to any psychiatric treatment," said Barnett. "So, when you think about that at scale, that's millions of people who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder that's not responding to treatment." The Phase 2b study, conducted by Mind Medicine Inc., involved 198 adults with moderate-to-severe generalized anxiety disorder across 22 psychiatric research sites in the United States. Participants received a single dose of MM120, a pharmaceutical-grade form of LSD, at varying strengths or a placebo. The most effective dose, 100 micrograms, showed significant improvements in anxiety symptoms that lasted throughout the 12-week observation period. Patients receiving this dose experienced a 7.6-point greater reduction in anxiety scores compared to those taking placebo, with 65% showing clinical response and 48% achieving clinical remission by week 12.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifies drowning as the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths for children ages one to 14, with 4,000 deadly unintentional drownings occurring annually. However, these tragedies are preventable with proper precautions and awareness. The National Weather Service emphasizes a simple but critical message for flooding situations: "Turn around, don't drown." Driving or walking into flood waters is a major cause of fatalities, as water often moves faster or runs deeper than it appears. Flash flooding remains one of the leading causes of weather-related fatalities in the United States and can happen at any time of day or year. According to meteorologist Meredith Garafalo, flash flooding can occur in as little as a few minutes or after hours of continuous rain in the same location. Children aged five through fourteen are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, and rivers compared to swimming pools. These environments present distinct challenges that require specific safety awareness. Natural water bodies often have unpredictable currents, varying depths, and limited visibility. Unlike pools with controlled conditions, lakes and rivers can have sudden drop-offs, underwater obstacles, and changing weather conditions that affect water safety. Retention ponds, commonly found in residential areas, present particular dangers. As noted by the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, "they're not bodies of water to swim in." These man-made water features may appear calm but can have steep sides and murky water that conceals hazards. City officials have identified retention ponds as an ongoing concern, particularly for children with autism who may be drawn to these water sources near their homes. The challenge is that many of these drownings occur on private property, limiting municipal oversight and intervention capabilities. The tragedy becomes more pronounced for children with autism, who face drowning rates 160 times higher than their typically developing peers. This population is often drawn to water near their homes, making awareness and protective measures especially critical. A Drowning deaths, particularly among children, increase during summer months, with July representing the peak period. For children between ages one and four, drowning is the leading cause of death, with a significant number of incidents occurring in home swimming pools. The CDC recommends several key prevention steps: learning to swim, using life jackets, building barriers around pools, and maintaining constant supervision of children near water. Additional measures include avoiding alcohol and drugs before swimming, understanding natural water risks, and learning CPR. Research from Alive Solutions demonstrates that brighter colored swimsuits are easier to spot underwater compared to lighter colors. Their color tests show that bright reds, pinks, blues, and greens remain visible underwater, while white and light blue essentially disappear. However, experts emphasize that swimsuit color serves only as a secondary safety measure. Active supervision and swimming lessons remain the primary prevention methods. Formal swim lessons can reduce drowning risk by 88%. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

# Summer Safety: Essential Health Tips for Hot Weather Summer brings fun, but also serious health risks! Learn how to stay safe during heat waves and protect yourself from summer dangers. 🌡️ **Key Topics Covered:** • Heat is the #1 weather killer in the U.S. (1,200+ deaths annually) • How medications react to extreme heat • Pregnancy risks during heat waves • West Nile virus prevention • Food safety tips for BBQs • Heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke warning signs • Fan safety and cooling tips 🔥 **Critical Heat Safety:** - Never leave medications in hot cars - Pregnant women face increased risks of preterm birth and complications - Those over 50 are more vulnerable to West Nile virus - Box fans shouldn't be used when temps hit 90°F+ 🦟 **Bug Protection:** - Use CDC-approved repellents (not just lavender oil) - Eliminate standing water around your home - Avoid outdoor activities at dusk/dawn ⚠️ **Emergency Signs:** Heat stroke symptoms: hot, dry skin, confusion, no sweating - call 911 immediately! Stay hydrated, seek shade during peak hours, and don't ignore warning signs. Your summer safety depends on preparation and awareness! #SummerSafety #HeatWave #HealthTips #Safety #Summer #Heat #Prevention Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

THE SILENT THREAT: Understanding Brain Aneurysms Before It's Too Late Every 18 minutes in America, someone's life changes forever when a brain aneurysm ruptures. This week on Health Yeah!, Monica Robins explores the terrifying reality of these "silent ticking time bombs" that affect 1 in 50 people—with women and those under 50 being particularly vulnerable. Did you know nearly 7 million Americans are currently living with an unruptured brain aneurysm? When these abnormal bulges in blood vessel walls burst, the consequences are devastating: half of all victims die within three months, and two-thirds of survivors face permanent brain damage. In this critical episode, Monica breaks down: Why aneurysms disproportionately impact younger women The warning signs you absolutely cannot ignore What makes these conditions so deadly and difficult to detect Prevention strategies and treatment options that could save your life Knowledge is power when it comes to brain aneurysms. Don't miss this potentially life-saving conversation that could help you recognize symptoms before it's too late—for yourself or someone you love. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

FROM COUNTERCULTURE TO CLINIC: The Surprising Medical Renaissance of Psychedelics They fueled the Summer of Love, inspired musical masterpieces of the 60s and 70s, and brought technicolor euphoria to the rave scenes of the 80s and 90s. But psychedelics have always had a darker side—with bad trips sometimes ending in tragedy. So why are these controversial substances now being seriously investigated by the medical community? In this fascinating episode of Health Yeah!, Monica Robins takes us on a journey through the complex history and promising future of psychedelic medicine. After decades of prohibition and stigma, compounds like psilocybin, MDMA, and LSD are showing remarkable potential in treating conditions that have long resisted conventional therapies. Monica explores: The historical trajectory from countercultural symbol to cutting-edge medicine. The groundbreaking research happening at prestigious medical institutions Firsthand accounts from patients finding relief where traditional treatments failed. The careful protocols that distinguish medical use from recreational experimentation. The ethical questions and regulatory challenges this research presents. Whether you're skeptical or curious, this eye-opening conversation challenges what we thought we knew about these powerful substances and their potential role in modern healthcare. Don't miss this timely exploration of one of medicine's most controversial and promising frontiers. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

Ever wonder if Grandma's wisdom was actually backed by science? On this episode of Health Yeah, we're diving deep into those age-old health remedies you've heard since childhood. Does chicken soup really have healing powers? Should you actually starve a cold and feed a fever? And what about that apple keeping the doctor away? Join us as we separate fact from fiction and explore the fascinating science behind these popular health sayings. Plus, we'll reveal evidence-based ways to naturally strengthen your immune system – no snake oil required. Whether you're fighting a cold or trying to stay healthy, this episode of Health Yeah might just change how you think about those traditional remedies. Get ready for some surprising discoveries that could transform your approach to wellness. Your health myths are about to get a reality check – right here on Health Yeah.

Some call vaccines the greatest medical advance of the last century, other question whether or not we really need them. It's a touchy subject made more complicated with a lot of misinformation. In this episode, we go straight to an expert, Amy Edwards, M.D., a pediatric infectious disease expert at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital who gives us straight talk, explains some of the misconceptions and gives you information to better decide your health choices.

"K-Clarity: Exploring Ketamine's Therapeutic Frontiers" Episode Teaser: From Party Drug to Promising Medical Treatment In the wake of actor Matthew Perry's tragic death, ketamine has been thrust into the national spotlight, sparking a complex conversation about a drug with a multifaceted history. What is Ketamine? Developed in the 1960s, ketamine is a powerful anesthetic with a remarkable journey from surgical operating rooms to nightclub dance floors—and now, potentially, to mental health treatment centers. Originally developed by Parke-Davis in 1962 as a safer alternative to existing anesthetics (Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 2010) FDA-approved derivative Esketamine (Spravato) emerged in 2019 specifically for treatment-resistant depression (FDA Press Release) While historically known as a party drug, ketamine is now showing promise in treating: Treatment-resistant depression Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Chronic pain conditions Potential applications in addiction recovery Expert Perspectives: Dr. Jennifer Mullan, a clinical psychologist specializing in psychopharmacology, notes: "Ketamine represents a potentially revolutionary approach to mental health treatment, particularly for patients who haven't responded to traditional therapies." Safety and Regulation Despite its medical potential, ketamine isn't without risks. Administered under strict medical supervision, its therapeutic use differs dramatically from recreational consumption. Key Takeaway: Ketamine isn't just a party drug or an anesthetic—it's a complex substance with emerging medical potential that demands nuanced understanding. Sources: FDA Press Release (2019) Journal of Psychoactive Drugs National Institute of Mental Health research publications

Many of us have put COVID-19 in the rear view mirror. But that's not possible for the millions impacted by the condition known as Long Covid. That's when a range of symptoms still persist long after the infection has resolved. This episode explores why that is and what's being done to help those still suffering. Plus how long covid symptoms differ between adults and children. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

You bought the back to school supplies, the clothes and other essentials. Experts advise don't overlook those wellness appointments, and that begins with updated vaccinations. But more and more parents are deciding against vaccinating their kids, we discuss this topic. And what about when your child needs to take medication to school? Experts explain the best way to handle those issues as well as when is the right time to keep your child at home when they're sick. And when did yoga become part of the curriculum like reading and math? Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition

Imagine right now in your body – the very thing that’s supposed to protect you against viruses and infection – is attacking the healthy organs in your body… Literally fighting itself. That’s what happens for millions of people with autoimmune diseases. One of those diseases is lupus. We’ll show you hope is on the horizon and introduce you to a woman undergoing this life changing therapy. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

Vasectomy…just hearing the word makes most men cringe. It's a decision many men, including younger ones have opted for to limit their odds of fatherhood. This week – we'll explore the reasons behind the spike in men getting snipped… Plus-- what couples need to know about their sex lives after a vasectomy… And is it true that March is a popular time for vasectomies due to March Madness? Or is that just an old urban legend? Our national Verify team checks it out. Also – a medicated cream being tested as a first of its kind male birth control – some say it could be a reproductive game changer. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

Let's talk about sex. Really. It’s all about sex today and we’re going deeper into the subject. We’re talking about a condition most men don’t want to talk about -- erectile dysfunction or E-D. We explore what it is, what causes it and how to prevent it. But it’s also more than just sex sometimes problems in the bedroom can signal something more serious. We’ve all seen the commercials promising to reverse E-D. We’ll see why those over the counter drugs may not be what the doctor ordered. What can cause sexual dysfunction and how to heat things up in the bedroom. Health Yeah, we're talking about it. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

As kids head back to school, it's time to talk about kids and sports. There are so many benefits to being an athlete -- but it can also come with its challenges… This week we take a closer look at what student athletes and parents need to know to make it a successful school year.. From how much is too much when it comes to sports and extracurricular activities…. To what are the limits for parents and how do you know when and when not to push your child. And how to prevent burnout. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

Let's face it, growing older is far better than the alternative. And yes, it brings changes to our bodies, and especially our brains, os it's important to do what we can to protect what's between your ears. Millions of Americans are living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. We'll share the steps you can take now to limit your risk of developing a diagnosis and how to keep your brain healthy. Plus the warning signs to watch for that you're having brain health issues, including a sign that shows up years before the first symptoms appear. Regardless, even if you think it's minor, it's very important that you share your concerns with your doctor. Catching memory issues early can slow progression of a worsening disease, but it's important to know that not all memory loss is from brain dysfunction. Some of it is completely normal. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.

It’s another one of those unpleasant topics yet an important one, constipation. We all experience occasional trouble with bowel movements, but did you know it's the number one gastrointestional complaint and results in 2.5 million doctor visits annually? For those suffering from chronic constipation, it can be painful, frustrating and even concerning. We’ll look at what causes constipation, how to prevent it and when you should see a doctor. We’re also blowing up some common myths associated with constipation. If your body is in delay mode, we hope this is the guide to help you go. Monica Robins is not a medical doctor. All content presented in this program is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your personal doctor or qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition.