Welcome to the eighth episode of The Caring Neurologist with Dr. Sandeep Thakar! In this thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Thakkar dives into the alarming links between Parkinson’s disease and environmental toxins, specifically the pesticides used at golf courses and in our own backyards. Inspired by a recent JAMA Neurology study, they unravel how living near manicured greens could impact long-term brain health, what specific chemicals are involved, and why these risks matter far beyond just golfers. Together, they answer pressing questions about real-life risk, discuss practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, and challenge us all to advocate for stronger public health measures, without giving in to panic. Whether you’re a concerned parent, a public health enthusiast, or just curious about what’s really in your water, this episode will empower you with knowledge and leave you with actionable advice. Tune in to find out what might be hiding in your backyard, and what you can do about it.

00:00 Golf Course Proximity and Parkinson's Risk

04:25 Golf Course Pesticide Safety Concerns

08:30 Pesticides Cause Nervous System Damage

10:44 Pesticide Exposure and Brain Damage

15:47 Mindful Awareness of Water Safety

17:52 Environmental Safety Concerns in Golf Courses

20:22 "Concerns Over Industrial Farming Practices"

26:06 Diet, Chemicals, and Antibiotic Concerns

29:13 "Evaluating Food Safety and Diets"

31:16 Air and Car Pollution Concerns

The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/

TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/

Welcome to episode seven of The Caring Neurologist, where hosts Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives deep into the world of Parkinson’s disease, this time shining a spotlight on the cutting edge of clinical research. In this episode, Dr. Thakkar explains why research and care are inseparable for truly advancing Parkinson’s treatment, and opens up about the most exciting developments shaping the field today.

From discussing the importance and process of clinical trials, to breaking down how gene therapy, artificial intelligence, and novel therapies like stem cells are transforming what’s possible for Parkinson’s patients, this conversation is packed with hope and real-world insights. Dr. Thakkar shares his unique perspective as both a hands-on physician and research leader, offering a glimpse into promising new studies and explaining how patients can get involved in shaping the future of care.

If you or a loved one are navigating Parkinson’s or just curious about how research becomes real-life treatment breakthroughs, this episode is filled with practical wisdom, encouragement, and a peek at the innovations on the horizon. So grab your notebook and get ready to be inspired by Dr. Thakkar’s passion and expertise, as he remind us why curiosity, partnership, and patient empowerment are the driving forces behind progress.

Timestamps:

00:00 FDA Clinical Trial Phases

07:20 Advancements in Parkinson's Research

09:49 AI in Pharma: Molecular Insights

12:48 Parkinson's Research Developments

17:50 Parkinson’s as a Proteinopathy

20:53 Clinical Trial Participation Considerations

25:55 Pharma Influence on Politics

29:46 Parkinson’s Care and Research Hub

32:05 Purpose-Driven Career

34:16 Recording End Acknowledgment

The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/

TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/

Welcome to episode six of The Caring Neurologist! In this episode, Dr. Sandeep Thakkar dives deep into a truly life-changing topic: Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). While the phrase might sound futuristic or even a little intimidating, DBS is a reality for thousands of people living with Parkinson’s disease and other neurological conditions. Dr. Thakkar unpacks what DBS really is, how it works, and why it’s become such a promising treatment option for managing symptoms like tremor and stiffness when medications are no longer enough.

Dr. Thakkar shares his clinical experiences, the science behind DBS, who might be a candidate, and what patients can expect every step of the way - from evaluation through surgery to life after DBS. With patient stories, practical advice, and a look ahead at new advances like adaptive DBS, this episode sheds light on a therapy that is giving patients and families real hope and renewed quality of life.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to consider or live with DBS, or just want to hear about some of the most exciting technology at the intersection of neurology and care, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how science fiction is becoming science fact -and hear firsthand just how transformative advances in neurological care can be.

Timestamps:

00:00 Fulfillment in Evolving Medicine

04:15 Parkinson's Dopamine and Brain Stimulation

07:38 Brain Stimulation Device Programming

11:36 Optimal Timing for Deep Brain Stimulation

13:41 From Epilepsy to Movement: A Journey

16:30 Deep Brain Stimulation Process

21:29 Deep Brain Stimulation Overview

23:57 Early Intervention in Brain Surgery

26:58 Adjustable Facial Stimulation Therapy

31:44 Balancing Medication and Well-being

35:07 Choosing Parkinson's Care and Trials

38:14 Weighing DBS Surgery Risks

39:52 "Deep Brain Stimulation Insights"

43:19 Deep Brain Stimulation for Epilepsy

The Caring Neurologist - Podcast Website - https://thecaringneurologist.com/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeep-thakkar-do-798a2499/

Dr. Sandeep Thakkar - Clinic - https://ocparkinsons.com/about-mdpds/our-team/dr-thakkar/

TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/