What's Up Docs?
Podcast

What's Up Docs?

BBC Radio 4

188 episodes

In this BBC Radio 4 podcast, Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken are on a mission to help us take better care of ourselves. Although they are identical twins, Chris and Xand are very different and they never stop thinking and arguing about science and health. They want to lead healthy, happy lives and as doctors, they want this for everyone. Yet they tussle over how best to get there. When it comes to looking after our own health, it can be confusing. Medicine and science produce amazing new treatments and diagnostics every day and we are bombarded with so many headlines and pieces of advice; but how are we supposed to know what's really best for us and then successfully apply it to our lives? Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken embrace this challenge; even as they marvel at the scientific breakthroughs, they grapple with the competing claims about health, wellbeing and how to live. From understanding testosterone therapies to microplastics in our diets, and the concept of 'hangriness' to the power of saying no - this podcast deals with the health stresses we all face every day, while taking on board how the decisions by corporations and governments affect all our health. Each episode, Chris and Xand are joined by an expert guest to examine the latest research, psychological insights, and data, to help listeners navigate the overwhelming amount of information and advice out there. They talk about the trials and tribulations in their own lives in their characteristically witty way - each teasing the other as they search for solutions. Xand has trouble sleeping , Chris has noisy knees, one of them has got an embarrassing itch. They have different ways of looking at things and find it really helpful to get the other one's point of view. These doctors are trying their best and encouraging listeners to do the same. Email: whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk (mailto:whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk) Whatsapp: 08000 665123 A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4.

What this show covers

joint healthPublic healthosteoarthritismusculoskeletal biologyacnesocial mediadermatologymental healthchronic painSleep disordersNeurodiversityphysiotherapyinjury preventionsymptomsType 2 diabetes

What listeners will find here

Why osteoarthritis is so common—and what you can do about it
Osteoarthritis is the focus here, as Chris and Xand van Tulleken explore why this so-called wear and tear joint disease affects around a sixth of the population. With Professor Tonia Vincent, they look at why most of us get it and what can help people manage it.
Inside osteoarthritis: what joint damage means and why the field is changing
Osteoarthritis is the focus as Chris and Xand van Tulleken continue their discussion with Professor Tonia Vincent. The episode looks at what happens inside arthritic joints, how Vincent came to study the disease, and why this area of medicine is undergoing a broader transformation.
Why acne can hit far deeper than skin — and what shapes that pressure
Acne and other visible skin conditions can have a powerful effect on confidence and mental health. Chris and Xand van Tulleken speak with dermatologist Professor Tess McPherson about stigma, social media’s role in “perfect skin” expectations, and where skincare treatment fits in.
Acne myths, causes, and treatments—what actually helps?
Acne is the focus here, with Chris and Xand van Tulleken joined by dermatologist Professor Tess McPherson. They look at why acne is so common in the teenage years, why it can persist into adulthood, and what evidence says about treatment options and their risks.
Why pain feels so different from person to person
Pain is the focus here, from what happens in the body when we feel it to why the same injury can hurt differently in different people. Chris and Xand van Tulleken, joined by pain specialist Dr Cathy Stannard, also look at chronic pain, measurement, and treatment.

Episodes

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