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HealthLink on Air
Sundays at 6 a.m.

“HealthLink on Air” is a 60-minute program produced since 2006 by Upstate Medical University, the academic medical center in Syracuse, NY.

“HealthLink on Air” provides a weekly dose of information on health and medical issues affecting central New Yorkers. The program showcases health professionals and researchers from Upstate Medical University, Upstate University Hospital, the central New York community and those visiting the region who are involved with health care issues and events. The interviews are permanently archived online.

For more information, visit the HealthLink on Air website.

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  • Toxicologist Willie Eggleston discusses the dangers of kratom. Researcher Bardia Rodd talks about the use of chatbots for medical concerns. Professor Stephen Faraone tells what's needed to have a successful career in science.
  • The Upstate Cancer Center's chief of surgery, Dr. Thomas VanderMeer, explains how the outlook for someone with pancreatic cancer has improved in recent years. Physical therapist Ryan Martin discusses how to prevent "tech neck," which can be brought on by hours in front of electronic screens. The Upstate New York Poison Center's medical director, Dr. Vincent Calleo, tells what to do if a child accidentally swallows acetaminophen, or Tylenol.
  • Safe Kids Upstate NY coordinator Liz Sapio discusses summer safety for kids. Rheumatologist Christian Geier explains how rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed, how the condition may impact someone's life and why treatment is important.
  • Geriatrician Sharon Brangman discusses ways to reduce the risk of developing dementia. Author and filmmaker Francis DiClemente shares his new book, "Stunted: A Memoir of Delayed Manhood." And psychiatrist Robert Gregory tells how to recognize when someone is suicidal.
  • Dr. Mythili Pathiyil, who specializes in gastroenterology, discusses rising rectal cancer mortality rates in young adults. Psychiatrists Justin Meyer and Thomas Schulze explain the benefits of electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT ("shock treatment"), and a controversy involving the World Health Organization. And neurotrauma nurse navigator Melissa Port tells what's important to know about becoming an informal caregiver.
  • Physical therapist Jason Cherry discusses knee pain and methods of pain relief. Pediatrician Priyanka Kaul goes over the role of school recess in the development and health of children and adolescents. Stroke neurologist and educator Hesham Masoud shares the story behind "The Stroke Interventionalists' Guide" graphic manual. Transplant surgeon Matthew Garner explains when a pancreas transplant may help someone with diabetes.
  • Gynecologist Maureen Burke explains what's involved in a woman's transitional stage of life known as menopause. Cardiologist Jorge Romero discusses how atrial fibrillation is diagnosed and the current treatment options. Dr. Zachary Shepherd tells what's important to know about bug bites.
  • Learn about aortic stenosis treatment options like TAVR with Dr. Ankur Kalra, and discover how pulmonary rehab benefits lung health with physical therapist Caitlin Farruggio on HealthLink on Air.
  • Chest surgeon Yifan Zheng explains who qualifies for lung cancer screening. Immunology researcher Iwona Koenig talks about the onset and progression of lupus. Social worker Susan Allington shares some habits and practices that can help relieve stress. Orthopedic surgeon Zachary Vredenburgh tells two ways to keep your knees healthy.
  • Pediatrician Lou Pellegrino discusses how autism is diagnosed, and the best way to reduce a baby's risk. Child life specialists Abigail Loehrke and Rachel Stinson talk about their role in the hospital and how parents can help children facing medical appointments. Exercise physiologist Carol Sames shares exercise ideas for seniors.