News|Podcasts|October 2, 2025

Weekly Dose Podcast: Arrhythmias as Early Risk Markers, Flu Vaccine Safety, Salt Substitute Use, Preconception CT Risks, and Global Diabetes Care Gaps

Fact checked by: Grace Halsey

Today's episode highlights arrhythmias as CVD risk markers, influenza vaccine safety, salt substitute use, preconception CT risks, and global diabetes gaps.

The newest episode of the Weekly Dose podcast from Patient Care® is live, offering a concise roundup of 5 leading clinical updates for primary care physicians. Listen below for details on how subtle arrhythmias may signal cardiovascular disease risk before symptoms appear, why the high-dose influenza vaccine may reduce myocarditis and pericarditis events in older adults, and why salt substitutes remain underused despite proven benefits for hypertension. In addition, find details from new data linking preconception CT scans to pregnancy loss and congenital anomalies, and a global perspective on the gaps in diabetes diagnosis and management.

EPISODE BREAKDOWN

Heart Rhythm Disturbances in Middle Age (00:00:25)
New research shows subtle arrhythmias are common in middle-aged adults, potentially signaling early cardiovascular disease.

High-Dose vs Standard-Dose Influenza Vaccine in Older Adults (00:00:59)
Study finds high-dose flu vaccine reduces hospitalizations for myocarditis and pericarditis, with similar safety to standard dose.

Low Adoption of Salt Substitutes in the US (00:01:34)
Fewer than 6% of adults use salt substitutes; usage is even low among those with hypertension, highlighting missed opportunities.

CT Scans Before Conception and Pregnancy Risks (00:02:11)
Canadian study links preconception CT scans to increased risks of pregnancy loss and congenital anomalies, especially with multiple scans.

Global Gaps in Diabetes Diagnosis and Control (00:02:43)
Only 56% of people with diabetes are diagnosed; fewer than half achieve blood sugar control, with major regional disparities.

Editor's note: Episode timestamps produced using AI tools.


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