Ep460 - Behind the Paper: Dr. Katie Saleta on Uncovering Hidden Bias in Research

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In an era where misinformation can masquerade as science, how do you discern credible research? Host Dr. Bradley Block welcomes Dr. Katie Saleta, to unpack the importance of scrutinizing study authors and journals for conflicts of interest. Drawing from her recent experience with the Journal of Personalized Medicine, where a case study on supplements for autism treatment failed to disclose a lead author’s affiliation with a supplement company, Dr. Saleta shares her journey to push for its retraction. This episode equips physicians with tools to inoculate themselves against junk science, emphasizing intellectual humility and lateral reading to protect patient care and public trust.

Three Actionable Takeaways:

1. Check Author Affiliations – Before reading a study, investigate authors’ affiliations and potential conflicts of interest using readily available information to assess bias.
2. Evaluate Journal Credibility – Be wary of journals with overly long or suspicious titles, and research their reputation to avoid predatory publications.
3. Practice Lateral Reading – Cross-check studies or news articles with other sources to verify credibility and understand broader reactions, enhancing your information hygiene.

About the Show:

PGD Physician’s Guide to Doctoring covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!

About the Guest:
Dr. Katie Saleta is a trained epidemiologist with expertise in infectious diseases and health informatics, serving as the regional director of research and graduate medical education. She mentors residents daily and works as a science writer, contributing to outlets like the American Council on Science and Health, The Conversation, Skeptical Inquirer, and STAT News. Known for her advocacy against misinformation, Dr. Saleta recently exposed a case study in the Journal of Personalized Medicine where a lead author’s undisclosed supplement company affiliation led her to push for its retraction, highlighting the need for transparency in scientific publishing.

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/katherine-sota-ortecho-447a4899

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katysota?igsh=Njd0NG4weW90OWJi

About the Host

Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts The Physician’s Guide to Doctoring podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physicians

Want to be a guest?

Email Brad at [e-mail] or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!

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Disclaimer:

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance.