Avaaz Health

In many South Asian families, we talk about everything except the tough stuff—illness, prognosis, end-of-life wishes. Out of love, we avoid it. Out of habit, we call it fate.But the next generation is left guessing when it matters most.This episode breaks down why advance care planning isn’t disrespectful—it’s clarity, comfort, and care for your family.Let’s stop assuming. Let’s start talking.New episode out now. 🎙️✨Show Notes:Research/References:1.  CFPC Guide to Advance Care Planning2. https://bc-cpc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/ACP-Checklist_SPREAD.pdf3.https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/people/seniors/health-safety/pdf/myvoice_feb2013_pun.pdf (punjabi), https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/people/seniors/health-safety/pdf/hindi_myvoice_feb2020.pdf (hindi)4. Advance Care Planning in BC (youtube video in English with Punjabi subtitles)5.Serious Illness Conversation Guide6. Taking serious illness conversations seriously: Unveiling South Asian perspectives on advance care planning using the Serious Illness Conversation GuideIssue: BCMJ vol. 67 , No. 5 , June 2025 , Pages 166-173 Original Research

Ever wondered what contraception really is — and how it actually works? 💊✨In this episode, our doctors break down the basics:🔹 What contraception means (and why it’s more than just “birth control”)🔹 The different types available — from pills and IUDs to injections and condoms🔹 How each method works to safely and effectively prevent pregnancyWhether you’re exploring your options or just want to understand your body better, this conversation is for you.Let’s talk openly about choices, comfort, and control — because informed women make empowered decisions. 💪🏽💗🎧 Tune in now to Avaaz – your trusted doctor-led guide to reproductive health – wherever you listen to your podcasts. Also find us on YouTube#SouthAsianWomen #ContraceptionExplained #BirthControlEducation #DoctorPodcast #WomensHealthMatters #ReproductiveHealth #HealthAwareness Show Notes: https://www.jogc.com/article/S1701-2163(16)30033-0/fulltext  

In this episode of the Avaaz Podcast, we break down the myths, stigma, and science behind common infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and more — especially in South Asian communities where these conversations are often silenced.💡 Knowledge is power — and sexual health is health.🎧 Listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts or on YouTube.#AvaazPodcast #STIawareness #SexualHealth #SouthAsianHealth #LetsTalkAboutIt #Podcast #fyp

🩺 What is dementia really — and how can we better support those living with it? In this week’s episode, our regular podcast doctors, Dr. Madhu and Dr. Nav, break down the facts and myths about dementia. From early symptoms and diagnosis to treatment options and compassionate caregiving — we’re covering it all. 👩‍⚕️ Medical insight you can trust 💡 Simple explanations for complex conditions ❤️ Tips for families, caregivers & health professionals 🎧 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & more! #DementiaAwareness #BrainHealth #southasianwomen #MedicalPodcast #CaregivingTips #GeriatricMedicine #AvaazPodcast #HealthEducationShow Notes:https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/help-support/programs-services/support-south-asian-communitieshttps://globalnews.ca/news/11309084/walking-alzheimers-reduce-risk/Experiences of dementia in South Asian communities in Canadahttps://www.cbc.ca/news/health/alzheimer-women-risks-1.7604574Dementia Village Pilot BC

🩺 Today we're discussing prenatal care on Season 6 of the Avaaz podcast.If you or someone you love is wanting to get pregnant, it's important to be prepared and make sure they're getting the medical information they need. In this episode we tell you what what to watch for, what tests to get done and how to prevent serious illness for mom and baby-to-be. While we delve into this topic, we also examine it from a South Asian lens. Are there any higher risks? We're joined by expert, Dr Dimithra Hippola, a family practice/obstetrics physician at BC Women's Hospital who has been practicing medicine 27 years. Show Notes:⁠https://pregnancyvancouver.ca/⁠⁠https://smartparentcanada.ca⁠⁠https://study.smartmomcanada.ca⁠

So many women suffer from pelvic pain, and they don’t know why.  In this episode, our doctors discuss a common reason for pelvic pain: endometriosis.Endometriosis is often under-diagnosed and under-treated in women, and even more so in South Asian women. We discuss  the barriers to diagnosis, including not wanting to talk about “taboo” topics like pelvic pain, and barriers to healthcare access, diagnosis and care in racialized communities.Join us for a frank discussion about the symptoms, causes, possible treatment options, and the burden of pelvic pain. We hope this episode leaves you feeling empowered to ask for help if you suffer from endometriosis or other causes of pelvic pain.Find us wherever you listen to podcasts, and watch us on YouTube. Links in bio!#healthpodcast #southasianwomen #pelvicpain #endometriosis 

In this episode of the Avaaz Podcast, we delve into Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), a common condition. Having heartburn from time to time doesn't mean that you have GERD, but when heartburn bothers you often and lasts longer, this is GERD. What are the symptoms? What causes it? And how do we manage it? In this episode our team of doctors explore how cultural norms and dietary habits are causing GERD in many South Asian patients, and practical actions on what to do to prevent it or reduce its effects. (Spoiler: you may want to put down that second cup of cha!)Through expert insights and relatable stories, this episode aims to empower listeners with knowledge to recognize and manage GERD effectively. 

Join us on the Avaaz Podcast as we delve into the world of healthcare myths. We are sure you’ve heard some of these before!Do certain types of dishes cause Alzheimer’s Disease?Are scented candles bad for you?Multivitamins: Do they really improve your health?How about vaccines and autism - is there a link?Our expert doctors - Dr Madhu and Dr Nav, answer some of the most common questions and tackle misconceptions with our moderator and host, Rup. Tune in to uncover the truth and empower yourself with knowledge. Listen wherever you get your podcasts - links are in the bio.

Join the Avaaz podcast team as we dive deep into the topic of anemia, as always with a focus on its impact on the South Asian community. In this episode, Dr Madhu, Dr, Nav and our moderator Rup explore the causes, common misconceptions, and effective treatments for this widespread condition.Discover why South Asian women are particularly vulnerable to iron deficiency anemia, with approximately 40% of the population struggling with this condition. We'll unpack the cultural, dietary, and social factors that contribute to this high incidence, including: The role of vegetarian diets in iron deficiency Cultural attitudes towards menstruation and their impact on anemia Cultural barriers preventing women from seeking care from male healthcare providersOur expert hosts will debunk common myths surrounding anemia and provide practical advice for prevention and treatment. From dietary changes to supplement recommendations, we'll cover everything you need to know to take charge of your health.Don't miss this informative and potentially life-changing episode of the Avaaz podcast. Whether you're concerned about your own health or that of a loved one, this episode offers valuable insights into managing anemia in the South Asian community and beyond.

We are all familiar with childhood vaccinations. But what about vaccinations as adults?   We forget that as we get older there are important immunizations that we should get to prevent us from falling seriously ill, including hospitalizations and in rare cases death.   In this episode one of gets immunized for shingles – live and on the mic and camera for you to hear and see.   Let us explain the symptoms and prevention of some adult routine immunizations you should get for yourself and your loved ones.    Listen on Spotify or Apple. Or watch on our Youtube channel. All the links you’ll need are at the link in our bio.   #avaaz #adult immunizations #gettheshot #womenphysicians #southasianwomen    

n this Avaaz podcast we tackle Osteoporosis and the relevance for South Asian Women   Imagine your bones as a bank account. When you're young, your body deposits more bone than it withdraws. But as you age, the balance changes, and you start withdrawing more than you deposit. This loss of bone density is what leads to osteoporosis.   It’s particularly important for women, especially those post-menopause because osteoporosis leads to weakened bones and increased fracture risk. And  fractures can limit mobility and lead to loss of independence.   Show Notes   https://osteoporosis.ca/   https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis-related-fractures-2020.html#a2   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/osteoporosis-prevention-and-treatment-beyond-the-basics   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/calcium-and-vitamin-d-for-bone-health-beyond-the-basics   https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7755868/   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34176015/   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26527900/  

Urinary issues in women   Incontinence is a bladder control issue that affects a lot more women than we think. And it can really affect your quality of life.   It can cause leaking of urine while you do everyday activities like lifting, coughing, exercising, sneezing, laughing.  Or leaking during sex. It can also mean you can’t hold in your urine when you feel like you suddenly have a strong urge to pee. You might leak urine without any warning, or not be able to reach a toilet in time. You might even have some wetting of your bed while you sleep.   Find out what it means and what can be done about it in the latest podcast episode of Avaaz.   Link to the episode is in the bio.   Show Notes: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/urinary-incontinence-in-women-beyond-the-basics   https://www.uptodate.com/contents/urinary-incontinence-treatments-for-women-beyond-the-basics?topicRef=2727&source=see_link   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17962234/    

Sleep – some of us can’t get enough.   Women in their 40s-50s experience significant life changes such as menopause, family responsibilities, career stress and other shifts. In this episode on sleep issues for women, we talk about how a lack of sleep affects physical, emotional, and cognitive health. And of course, what we can do about it.

We've been hearing about it in the news, on socials and even at visits with family physicians...fatty liver is exactly what it sounds like. It's extra fat in the liver that creates inflammation, and can lead to health complications. And it's more prevalent in South Asian women. Find out how to get tested, and how to prevent this disease. All the details in this episode of the Avaaz podcast. Show notes https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9916127/

  SUPERWOMAN! YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL? BUT DO YOU REALLY WANT TO DO IT ALL??   Is the Superwoman phenomenon an unfair label, an unattainable goal? Is this undue pressure on us to do more and be more creating consequences on women’s mental and physical health? We discuss feelings of mother guilt and daughter guilt, and how we can prioritize ourselves.   We talk with Pink Chai founder and former self-describe Superwoman, Raj Thandhi on how she’s navigated being a mom, wife, daughter, business owner and friend and what she’s learned to let go of – for her well being.   Show Notes: Follow Raj Thandi online at https://www.instagram.com/pinkchai/?hl=en and https://www.youtube.com/c/PinkChai    

MOVING FORWARD SOMETIMES MEANS LOOKING BACK   We share the mic with registered clinical counsellor, Amrita Kaur Sandhu in this episode where we delve into how trauma from previous generations of our ancestors can show up in our own life.   We discuss external validation and self-esteem and how many South Asian women struggle with low self-worth. Amrita explains that this often comes from feeling conditionally loved and accepted due to being praised when one is achieving but also feeling ignored or scolded if not achieving.  These are two of the common concerns that Amrita sees in her practice where she serves adults dealing with anxiety, depression or stress management. An enlightening conversation for anyone interested in their mental health and how it relates to their physical health!   Show Notes: Book referenced https://markwolynn.com/it-didnt-start-with-you/   Amrita Kaur Sandhu is online at https://therapycovecounselling.com/  

We continue our conversation with Dr. Lucky Sekhon, Infertility Specialist, talking about fertility, challenges in getting pregnant, and the relevance to South Asian women. In our conversation Dr. Lucky shares her expertise on IVF, egg retrieval, and advocating for patients. We discuss destigmatizing fertility issues, helping empower women by educating them about their reproductive health, and enabling informed decision-making regarding their fertility. Show Notes Follow Dr. Lucky online at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucky.sekhon/ and  Personal Website https://theluckyegg.com/ Company Website https://www.rmany.com/our-team/physicians/dr-lucky-sekhon  

In this episode we raise awareness about fertility issues that many women face and discuss the latest advancements in fertility treatments and technologies.   We have the influential and popular Dr. Lucky Sekhon, Infertility Specialist, on our Avaaz podcast in this two-part series. Dr. Lucky shares her knowledge and experience to provide expert insights and clarify common misconceptions about fertility and reproductive health.    Dr. Lucky Sekhon is a double board certified OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist & Infertility specialist practicing at RMA of New York, and is on faculty as an assistant clinical professor in the Dept of OBGYN at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She is passionate about empowering people by educating them about their reproductive health and options for fertility preservation and family building and spends time outside of her regular work day to create content, myth-bust, and educate about reproductive health on social media.   

How has code-switching and parentification impacted you? In today’s episode we engage with Harpo Mander, community builder, cultural producer and Executive Director of 5X Fest on her personal experiences with both behaviours.   Code-switching is when people who speak more than one language uses their languages within a single conversation – often to make others or themselves comfortable, to fit in, or gain acceptance for others. Sound familiar?   Do you feel like you were pushed into taking care of your parents or siblings when you were only a child yourself? That you became an adult before you were ready for the role? If so, you may have been parentified. Many of us can relate, especially first born daughters.