San Diego Health

What Is Polycystic Kidney Disease PKD

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) affects millions — often without symptoms. In this episode of San Diego Health, host Susan Taylor speaks with Scripps Clinic nephrologist Kimberly Harper, MD, about what PKD is, how it develops and why early detection matters. They cover genetic risks, symptoms, complications, diagnosis, treatment and key lifestyle steps to help slow progression and protect kidney health.

Placenta Complications in Pregnancy: What to Know

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta covers the cervix, increasing the risk of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. In this episode, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor discusses this condition and other placental complications with Dr. Daniela Gomez, an OB-GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Scripps Clinic. They cover symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and when to seek urgent care. Placental complications discussed include placental abruption, placenta accreta, placental insufficiency and retained placenta.

Weight Loss Drugs and Effect on Skin and Hair Loss

Weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound are widely used for shedding pounds. But what do they mean for your skin and hair? In this episode, host Susan Taylor speaks with Rawaa Almukhtar, MD, a dermatologist at Scripps Clinic, about concerns like "Ozempic face," where rapid weight loss can lead to facial volume loss, sagging skin and a more aged appearance. They also explore hair shedding during weight loss — why it happens, who's most at risk and why it's usually temporary. Plus, simple steps you can take to protect your skin and support healthy hair while on GLP-1 medications.

Understanding Skin Cancer: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Most people love sunny days, and San Diego has plenty of them. However, all that sunshine can increase the risk of skin cancer. The most common type of cancer, skin cancer affects up to 1 in 5 people in the United States, and that number is even higher in areas that get a lot of sunshine. Fortunately, skin cancer can often be detected early when it is most treatable and, with the correct treatment, survival rates can exceed 90%. In this video, San Diego Health host Susan Taylor talks with Scripps Cancer Center dermatologist Benjamin Kelley, MD, about skin cancer risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Pelvic Disorders in Women

Pelvic floor disorders are common, but many people hesitate to talk about symptoms like leakage, pressure or prolapse. The pelvic floor supports key organs, and when it weakens, problems can develop. In this episode, Varuna Raizada, MD, a urogynecologist at Scripps Clinic, explains what the pelvic floor does, common disorders and who's at risk. Dr. Raizada discusses diagnosis, treatment options — including physical therapy, estrogen cream and surgery — plus lifestyle changes, at-home exercises and when it's time to see a doctor.