Medical Breakthroughs: The Research Journey

Dr Sunil Daga opens up about the urgent need for more kidney donors, the rise in dialysis patients, and why research must better reflect the UK’s diverse communities. This episode explores how building trust and breaking down barriers can lead to more equitable care for all. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical advice. For medical adv...

Can high-tech glasses help people with Parkinson’s stay independent for longer? Professor Rory O’Connor and physiotherapist Caroline Gill explore the promise of augmented reality in rehabilitation—offering patients fewer hospital visits and more support at home. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice please co...

Personalised cancer vaccines are no longer a dream. Professor Chris Twelves takes us inside the cutting-edge research happening in Leeds, where tailored treatments are being developed to train the immune system to fight cancer cells—with powerful, life-extending results. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice...

Dr Ramesh Nadarajah leads a groundbreaking trial using machine learning to detect signs of atrial fibrillation (AF)—a hidden heart condition that dramatically increases stroke risk. Hear how new tech is helping doctors intervene earlier, and what it could mean for the future of stroke prevention. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical a...

Arthritis affects millions—but there’s hope. Professor Phil Conaghan shares some of the research that’s being done in Leeds into reducing pain- which includes the use of chilli peppers. He also shares how to keep your joints healthy, avoid knee pain, and improve your quality of life through early care and innovation. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not...

Join Dr Nisha Sharma as she explains how artificial intelligence is revolutionising breast screening. With a national role in reshaping screening guidelines, Dr Sharma discusses how AI is helping clinicians catch cancers earlier and save more lives. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice please contact your ph...

Meet Professor Tze Min Wah, who performed the world’s first non-invasive procedure to destroy kidney tumours using sound waves, and Michael Wright, whose life was changed by it. Discover the science of histotripsy—and the story of a patient who came close to losing a kidney, only to walk away healthy and full of hope. This podcast was recorded and produced by  Under the Mast – creative audio...

When Susan took up an invite for a lung health check, she didn’t expect to be told she had early-stage cancer. Now cancer-free, she shares her story alongside Professor Matt Callister and Suzanne Rogerson, as they explain how a mobile screening unit in Leeds is finding hidden cancers—and going national. This podcast was recorded and produced by  Under the Mast – creative audio productions&nbs...

Mr Nigel Simpson shares how Leeds became one of the first hospitals to open a clinic dedicated to preventing preterm births. Discover how genetic testing at birth and anonymous health data is giving researchers new tools to support babies—and their families—from day one. Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice...

Medical Breakthroughs: The Research Journey is a new podcast from Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTHT), sharing the powerful and emotional stories behind some of the UK’s most significant medical advances. Launching on Wednesday 11 June 2025, the series explores how research transforms lives—through the voices of patients and researchers who are part of that journey. Each episode offers a rar...