Whether you're training for your first 5K, returning to running after a long break, or simply looking for a new way to improve your health, running offers benefits for both body and mind. In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Morgan Busko, a sports medicine physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia and an accomplished triathlete, shares expert guidance on how to build a safe, sustainable running routine. Dr. Busko explains why strength training, dynamic warmups, proper recovery, nutrition, and sleep are essential for preventing injuries and improving performance. She also offers practical advice for beginners, including how to ease back into running, train for a race, and distinguish normal discomfort from pain that should be evaluated by a doctor. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just lacing up your sneakers for the first time, this conversation provides actionable tips to help you run stronger, healthier, and with more confidence.

Why is quitting so difficult, whether it's alcohol, nicotine, gambling, social media, or another addictive behavior? In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Jonathan Avery, an addiction psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains what addiction really is, how it affects the brain, and why recovery is about far more than willpower. Dr. Avery discusses the complex mix of biology, mental health, environment, and life experiences that can contribute to addiction. He explains how substances and behaviors hijack the brain's reward pathways, why withdrawal can make quitting especially challenging, and how treatments ranging from therapy and medication to community support can help people recover. The conversation also explores the stigma surrounding addiction, the importance of connection and compassion, and why many people go on to build meaningful, fulfilling lives in recovery.

Did you know that looking down at your phone can place up to 60 pounds of stress on your neck? In this episode of Health Matters, Dr. Joseph Lombardi, orthopedic spine surgeon at Och Spine at NewYork-Presbyterian, explains how everyday habits like texting, sitting for prolonged periods, and slouching can affect the health of our spine over time. Dr. Lombardi breaks down how the spine works, what happens when posture places excess strain on spinal discs, and why sedentary lifestyles can contribute to neck and back pain. He also shares practical strategies to improve posture, including ergonomic workstation tips, core-strengthening exercises, and simple techniques to reduce stress on the neck and lower back. Whether you're working at a desk, scrolling on your phone, or managing chronic back discomfort, this conversation offers actionable advice to help protect your spine and maintain long-term musculoskeletal health.

Dr. Mehraneh Dorna Jafari, chief of colorectal surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, explains why cancer is becoming more common in adults under 50 and what researchers are learning about what could be driving this. She discusses the role of diet, the microbiome, ultra-processed foods, microplastics, and other factors in cancer risk, while also highlighting the promising advances transforming cancer care today. From AI-powered diagnostics and targeted therapies to the importance of screening and prevention, Dr. Jafari shares practical guidance and hopeful insights about the future of oncology.

Dr. Cassandra Simmons, chief of obstetrics and gynecology at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, explains perimenopause and the hormonal shifts that can lead to symptoms like night sweats, brain fog, and fatigue. She breaks down how declining estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone affect the body and discusses a range of treatment options—from lifestyle strategies and supplements to hormone therapy. Dr. Simmons also offers reassurance that this often-overwhelming transition is manageable with the right support and care.

Dr. Matthew Fink, who leads neurology at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains how the MIND diet can support brain health and reduce the risk of dementia. He breaks down the food sources of key nutrients like B vitamins and antioxidants, highlights foods to prioritize—and avoid—and shares how diet, exercise, and sleep work together to protect cognitive function. Dr. Fink emphasizes that small, consistent lifestyle changes can have a powerful impact on long-term brain health.

Dr. Laura Kirkman, an adult infectious disease physician and scientist, and Dr. Karen Acker, a pediatric infectious disease physician and epidemiologist at NewYork-Presbyterian Komansky Children’s Hospital of Children’s Hospital of New York, explain how ticks spread Lyme disease and when you should be concerned about a tick bite. They break down how Lyme disease develops, the symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent and treat infections early—so you can safely enjoy the outdoors. The experts also share information about the lone star tick and meat allergy.

Dr. Warren Ng, a psychiatrist with the Center for Youth Mental Health at NewYork-Presbyterian, explores the science behind kindness and how it affects both mental and physical health. He explains how kind thoughts and actions can trigger measurable changes in the brain and body—from boosting “feel-good” hormones like oxytocin and serotonin to lowering stress and improving heart health. Dr. Ng also shares practical ways to practice “kindfulness,” highlighting how small, intentional acts of compassion toward others—and ourselves—can strengthen connection, reduce loneliness, and support overall well-being.

Dr. Nana Sarpong, an orthopedic surgeon at NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia, explains how joints work, why they wear down, and what people can do to protect their joint health at every stage of life. He breaks down common joint conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, debunks widespread myths, and shares practical, evidence-based guidance on protecting our joints through exercise, weight management, and treatment options—from physical therapy to joint replacement surgery.

Dr. Charis Meng, rheumatologist at NewYork Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, explains inflammation—when it helps the body heal and when it can turn harmful. She breaks down the difference between acute and chronic inflammation, including forms driven by autoimmune disease, and shares evidence based medical and lifestyle strategies to help reduce inflammation and support long term health.