Dr. Howard Smith Oncall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHqSLvgbvj/Infection with the CoVid virus is associated with a 63% higher risk of cardiovascular disease, up to a 35% risk of chronic kidney disease, and a 28% risk of gastrointestinal problems.  This from a series of University of Pennsylvania epidemiological studies reviewing the case histories of those with continuing issues following cases of youth CoVid.Studying more than 1.2 million pediatric patients with or without congenital heart disease, the data revealed that almost 2 of every 3 who suffered a CoVid infection developed arrhythmias, heart inflammation, chest pain, palpitations, and/or hypertension.  The review of 1.9 million patients showed that more than one in 3 young CoVid patients developed mild to severe kidney damage impacting function from 1 to 24 months following their infections.  Finally, the studies of more than 1.5 million children showed that 1 in 4 developed abdominal pain, diarrhea, and/or irritable bowel syndrome between 6 months and 2 years fo

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHpsVIJN6v/Brown rice contains almost double the amount of arsenic as white rice and threatens the health of infants, toddlers, and preschool children.  So say food scientists at the Michigan State University following their analysis of data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) looking at the arsenic levels and nutritional content of rice from various sources and undergoing different processing.They found that brown rice contains 72-98% more inorganic arsenic, a known carcinogen, than comparable quantities of white rice.  They warn that children under five who regularly consume brown rice may exceed international safety limits for arsenic exposure consuming up to three times more arsenic per body weight than adults.  They add that infants are most at risk. On the other hand, the nutritionists note that brown vs white rice has a higher fiber and nutrient content. Brown rice of U.S. origin has less arsenic that that coming from overseas.  The

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHpCRNPMX2/The number of micronanoplastic particles found in plaques blocking the carotid or brain-feeding arteries was 51-fold higher in those persons suffering debilitating strokes.  This the key finding of studies by University of New Mexico vascular surgeons reported to the 2025 American Heart Association’s Vascular Discovery Scientific Sessions.Studying some 50 individuals, the investigators found that the concentration of these plastic particles was significantly higher in the blood vessel plaques of those who suffered strokes, mini-strokes, and vision losses.  Although the embedded plastics did not appear to precipitate more inflammation in the blood vessels, they did alter gene function and reduced the inflammation fighting capabilities of immune cell types such as macrophages.The bottom line: micro- and nano-plastics appear to be likely cofactors along with pathological lipid metabolism that fuels the arterial disease responsible for strokes.  Future studies wil

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHoaqqROQk/An FDA-approved psoriasis drug turns help those addicted to alcohol turn the corner.  That drug is apremilast, a phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor sold under the brand name Otezla.Preclinical testing of the drug at San Diego’s Scripps Research Institute using mouse lines that are prone to over consume alcohol shows that apemilast not only reduces craving for the drink but also lessens a characteristic accompanying heightened pain sensitivity known as mechanical allodynia.  These beneficial effects occurred in both female and male mice.Seeking to explain the drug’s effects, the investigators found that apemilast increases signaling by the amino acid neurotransmitter GABA, gamma-aminobutyric acid.  GABA is known to slow down and calm brain activity thereby reducing stress, anxiety and fear.  This drug is already FDA-approved for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis nd that’s a plus for getting it into the clinic for curbing alcoholism.The next step will be clinical tri

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHnp56RT5F/A raft of wearable and other electronic devices are vying to replace the old blood pressure cuffs and squeeze balls.  Should they?A panel of cardiologists led by the University of Washington School of Medicine give them all a thumbs down.  When I say all, I refer to the smartwatches, rings, chest patches, ultrasound wearables, phone-based sensors, and, yes, smart toilet seats that can measure all your cardiac vital signs every time you sit.These devices test out to be unreliable yielding readings either lower or higher than the gold standard blood pressure cuff.  That leads to under- or over-treatment of high blood pressure.  Under treatment can lead to strokes or heart attacks while overtreatment leads to fainting and falls or a stroke.Another problem occurs for patients with darker skin.  Many of these devices rely on a light sensor and often fail to deliver accurate readings.   There is no easy way to change their factory calibration.Though these devices ar

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/p/DJHldhBtMEW/Dr. Smith discusses objections to the measles vaccines, medications that all but eliminated measles in the US some 25 years ago.   Covered are: the vaccines-autism hoax, the religious objections; the ethical concerns, the fear of side effects and complications, and the efficiency of the vaccines.  Watch and pass on to family and friends who refuse vaccination for themselves and their kids. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(10)60175-4/abstracthttps://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/113/2/259/66877/Age-at-First-Measles-Mumps-Rubella-Vaccination-in?redirectedFrom=fulltexthttps://www.chop.edu/vaccine-education-center/vaccine-safety/vaccine-ingredients/ingredients-by-vaccine/mmr-vaccine-ingredientshttps://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/04/150421111240.htmhttps://www.cdc.gov/vaccine-safety/vaccines/mmr.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/vaccines/mmr-vaccine.html#measles #autism #safety #pneumonia #

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DI16wk0vP5e/The Indian company Glenmark Pharmaceuticals is recalling 26 types of over-the-counter and prescription.  The company is in violation of federal standards for pharmaceutical manufacturing that yields safe and effective medications.The recalled medications are used to treat a variety of common conditions, including heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, pain, and infections. I’m going to list the drugs that have been recalled and provide you with a link to an AARP article that provides the details regarding doses of the drugs, lot numbers, and expiration dates.Over-The-Counter:Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, cetirizinePrescription:Carvedilol, Clindamycin, Colesevelam, Diltiazem, Fenofibrate,  Fluphenazine, Frovatriptan, Gabapentin, Indomethacin, Lacosamide, Metformin, Naproxen, Nitroglycerin, Pravastatin, Prochlorperazine, Propafenone, Ranolazine, Rosuvastatin, Rufinamide, Saxagliptin, Solifenacin, Teriflunomide, Voriconazole.If

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DI16H_3vnqZ/These torches violate mandatory federal safety regulations for multipurpose lighters as they create risks for fires, burns, and serious injuries or death to children. Affected is model number S400. About 33,650 torches were sold in the US and an additional 1,425 were sold in Canada exclusively online at Amazon.com from October 2023 through March 2025.Stop using and dispose of these recalled torches. To receive a full refund, contact Sondikodirt by emailing recalltorch@outlook.com for return instructions.#sonkiko #butane #torch #children #Starter #fire #burns #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DI15ZL7uqCf/The wooden toy includes small ball-shaped pieces that pose a choking risk for young children and could result in serious injury or death.  Affected is model number MZL-038.About 5,950 of these were sold online exclusively through Amazon.com between October 2023 and January 2025.Stop allowing your children to play with this shape sorter toy. To receive a full refund, contact Deals Oasis at shapesorterrecall@gmail.com for return instructions and a prepaid shipping label.https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Deals-Oasis-Recalls-Shape-Sorter-Car-Toys-Due-to-Choking-Hazard-Violation-of-Small-Parts-Requirements-Risk-of-Serious-Injury-or-Death#kidsthrill #shapesorter #toy #smallparts #choking #children #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DI14yB7x6XW/The primary gear for the crank shaft tends to fail increasing the risk of a crash with injuries to riders and bystanders.The recall involves motorcycles with model numbers KX450MSFNN, KX450PSFNN, and KX450NSFNN.About 3,400 cycles were sold at authorized Kawasaki dealers nationwide between June 2024 and March 2025.Immediately stop riding these recalled motorcycles and contact an authorized Kawasaki dealer for a free repair. For more information, contact Kawasaki Motors USA  at 1-866-802-9381.https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Kawasaki-Motors-USA-Recalls-Model-Year-2025-Competition-and-Cross-Country-Motorcycles-Due-to-Crash-Hazard#Kawasaki #motorcycles #competiton #crosscountry #crankshaft #crashes #injuries #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DI14LztPzy4/The wiring in these trucks is defective and can lead to overheating creating fire and burn risks.  Affected are models 17249 and 17310 with date codes ranging from 16919 to 11122.About 24,700 units were sold nationwide exclusively at Walmart retail stores as well as online at walmart from August 2019 through December 2024.Stop charging and allowing your kids to ride these recalled UTVs and contact Huffy at 1- 800-872-2453 or via the email torex@huffy.com to schedule a free repair. You can arrange your own repair, and Huffy will reimburse you $50.https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Huffy-Recalls-Childrens-Ride-On-Tonka-Dump-Trucks-Due-to-Fire-and-Burn-Hazards#huffy #torex #utv #wiring #fires #burns #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DI13njENUhM/This recall applies to all of the company’s blinds with long operating cords that pose a risk of strangulation and entanglement to children.About 20,380 blinds were sold exclusively online through Amazon.com from May 2021 through December 2024.Stop using these recalled blinds. To receive a full refund, remove the blinds, mark them with the word “Recalled,” and dispose of them in the trash after taking a photo. Email the pic to BTAMREE at sales@cy-bamboo.com to register for the recall and to initiate the refund process.https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Roll-Up-Window-Blinds-Recalled-Due-to-Risk-of-Serious-Injury-or-Death-from-Strangulation-and-Entanglement-Hazards-Violation-of-Federal-Regulations-for-Window-Coverings-Sold-Exclusively-on-Amazon-com-by-BTAMREE#BTAMREE #roller #blinds #entangle #strangle #cords #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DI121qEOic0/These shades have dangerously long control cords and violate federal regulations for window coverings and product labeling. The recall applies to all sizes and colors of the shades.About 545 units were sold exclusively online at SHEIN.com between May 2023 and December 2024.Immediately stop using the recalled shades and cut the operating cord to eliminate the hazard. Contact LuckupShein by email at luckupshein@163.com and provide a photo of the shade with the cord cut to receive a free repair kit.#luckshein #rollup #shades #cords #entangle #strangle #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DI10Vt_MRW_/The controller in these trucks can overheat creating fire and burn risks.  Affected are models 17362 and 17323 with date codes ranging from 15623 to 18724.About 23,260 units were sold nationwide at Target and Sam’s Club retail stores, as well as online at Target.com and SamsClub.com, from June 2023 through March 2025.Stop charging and allowing your kids to ride these recalled toy dump trucks and contact Huffy at 1- 800-872-2453 or via the email service@huffy.com for a free replacement controller.https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2025/Huffy-Recalls-Childrens-Ride-On-Tonka-Dump-Trucks-Due-to-Fire-and-Burn-Hazards#huffy #tonka #dumptrucks #controller #fires #burns #recall

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIxJktKs5gR/Those suffering from essential tremors and wearing a wristband powered by artificial intelligence saw nearly three times the improvement in their ability to complete daily tasks compared to those wearing a sham device.  These promising results of the so-called TRANQUIL study of the Felix NeuroAI wristband were presented by University of Kansas neurologists to this year’s American Academy of Neurology (AAN) meeting.The wristband delivers gentle electrical stimulation to nerves in the wrist and uses AI to adapt in real time to the user’s tremor patterns.  During a randomized, double-blinded 90-day trial with 125 patients at 10 sites in the U.S. and China, those using the device scored significantly higher than control subjects on activities of daily living performance assessments.  The only side effect reported was mild skin irritation.This wristband remains under FDA review, but these early results are promising.   Once approved and available for patients, i

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DIxI1r7O17k/Breathing rapidly flowing room air at the onset of a migraine nearly doubles the chances of complete pain relief.  Cleveland Clinic neurologists presented the results of their preliminary clinical trials using a novel air pump called the Mi-Helper to the 2025 American Academy of Neurology meeting.By blowing room air about 20 degrees cooler than body temperature into the nose, the device targets the sphenopalatine ganglion, a nerve plexus deep in the side wall at the back of the nose.  The randomized phase 2 study involved 74 patients: 49 were treated with the device using 3 levels of air flow while 25 received sham treatments.  All received treatments for 10 minutes within one hour of noticing migraine onset.Those receiving air flow at 10 liters/min, the highest tested, obtained the most relief with 47% enjoying complete pain relief at 2 hours compared with only 16% in the control group.  In addition, 41% had sustained pain relief over

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIxIRCGR9TW/Sucralose, an artificial sweetener that is the basis for Splenda and is found in many diet drinks and foods, appears to disrupt your brain signals related to hunger and appetite.  Endocrinologists at the University of Southern California now publish a small but detailed randomized crossover study of 75 young adults in the journal Nature Metabolism.Using brain imaging, the researchers show that sucralose more so than conventional sugar increases blood flow to and activity in a person’s hypothalamus.  Among other things, this region of the brain controls appetite.  This effect proved to be stronger in obese subjects and in women.  Consuming the sucralose didn’t always make the study subjects feel hungrier, but the reaction it caused in their brains suggests that this artificial sweetener might impact your cravings and eating behaviors by confusing your system with sweetness that doesn’t deliver calories.https://www.nature.com/articles/s42255-025-01227-8https:

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DIxHmOutA3M/Though the latest antiretroviral therapy suppresses HIV to undetectable levels, we know that the virus hides in white blood cells ready to begin multiplying once the suppressing drugs stop. Researchers at New York’s Mount Sinai’s School of Medicine have developed a method for identifying and tracking immune white cells that harbor dormant HIV and make the virus so difficult to completely eradicate.  They announce this development in the journal Nature.Using humanized mice and a genetic color-switching system, the researchers marked white cells with a fluorescent marker that switches from red to green when HIV is present, even if the virus is dormant. This permitted tracking and genetic profiling of over 47,000 immune cells, identifying nine distinct T cell types capable of hiding dormant HIV even following weeks of antiretroviral therapy.Now that white cells harboring HIV can be identified and sorted, the door is widely opened for devel

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIxG51cNwcz/This rice-grain-sized pacemaker is so tiny it can be injected through a syringe.  Its unique construction permits it to dissolve naturally in the body after it’s no longer needed. Northwestern University bioengineers describe their invention in the journal Nature,This mini pacemaker is constructed of bio-resorbable materials similar to those used for dissolving sutures. Its function is activated by light pulses from a soft, wireless wearable control patch placed on the chest. When the control patch detects an abnormal rhythm, it sends infrared light through the skin to trigger and control the electric pulses from the pacemaker.  The device draws power from the body’s own fluids via a galvanic cell, a tiny internal battery. This micro-pacemaker is a major advancement, as current temporary pacemakers require wires that must pass through the chest triggering infections or bleeding. It was designed with babies in mind, but it works in hearts of any size.  It co

Vidcast:  https://www.instagram.com/drhowardsmithreports/reel/DIxGOOAPsJ8/A custom 3D printed hydrogel composed of cow-derived protein precisely repairs injured knee cartilages.  Orthopedic researchers at the University of Pennsylvania developed this technique to fabricate knee joint repair material with just the proper dimensions and stiffness.  They publish their work in the journal Bioactive Materials.The hydrogel protein is derived from a mix of fetal and mature cow joint cartilage by removing cellular material to reduce the possibility of immune rejection of the implant.  To control the hydrogel’s mechanical properties including firmness, methacrylated hyaluronic acid is added.Once this biogel is 3D printed biochemically and mechanically tunablehydrogel is fabricated into an implant, lab tests demonstrate that it is well tolerated by living cells.  This biogel scaffold welcomes cells to grow into it over time, necessary for optimal tissue compatibility.  Further preclinical animal studies are underway to