In this episode of The Medical Collective, host Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. is joined by Dena Goldberg, M.S., C.G.C. — also known as “Dena DNA” — a genetic counselor and content creator who has made genetics accessible to thousands through her work.

We explore the growing field of genetic counseling and testing, breaking down what it means, who it’s for, and how it can guide prevention and treatment. From cancer awareness to family health planning, this conversation sheds light on how genetics impacts everyday medical decisions.

Key Topics Covered

What genetic counseling is and how genetic counselors support patients and families
When to consider genetic testing — risk factors, family history, and proactive screening
Myths about genetic testing: cost, privacy, and accuracy
Genetics in cancer awareness — prostate cancer and gynecologic cancers
Insurance and accessibility: what patients need to know
How genetics is changing prevention and treatment pathways

Resources & Links

Guest: Dena Goldberg, M.S., C.G.C.
Genetic Counselor and Content Creator
Website: http://malibugenetics.com
Dena’s Recommended Resources
Find a Genetic Counselor: http://findageneticcounselor.com
Additional Resources
National Society of Genetic Counselors: https://www.nsgc.org
CDC Genomics & Precision Health: https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/
American Cancer Society – Genetic Testing: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/genetics/genetic-testing-for-cancer-risk.html
National Cancer Institute – Hereditary Cancer Testing: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/genetics/genetic-testing-fact-sheet

Connect With Us

Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. (Host)

https://drkeishadavis.komi.io

Podcast: https://themedicalcollective.komi.io

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Every Child Deserves Access to Vaccines — Our episode on vaccine hesitancy and protecting children through science-based care.

In this powerful episode, host Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. sits down with Dr. Dan, M.D. to pull back the curtain on the real, unfiltered stories from the emergency room. From bizarre and unforgettable cases to everyday challenges, this conversation goes beyond the stereotypes to show what it’s truly like to work on the frontlines of medicine.

We discuss the strange, the unexpected, and the very human side of the ER that most people never get to see. Whether it’s a work-related accident, an unusual object found in a scan, or the critical moments where split-second decisions save lives, this episode is equal parts educational and eye-opening.

Key Topics Covered:

• The strangest and most unforgettable cases in the ER
• What pathology reveals behind the scenes of ER cases (Dr. Davis’ perspective)
• Work-related injuries and what they teach us about prevention
• How the ER team manages the unexpected
• Lessons for patients: how to stay safe, avoid preventable ER visits, and advocate for yourself

Resources & Data:

• CDC Injury Data & Statistics: https://www.cdc.gov/injury/wisqars/index.html
• National Safety Council (workplace injuries): https://www.nsc.org
• American College of Emergency Physicians: https://www.acep.org

Connect with Us:

• Host: Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. → https://drkeishadavis.komi.io
• The Medical Collective → https://themedicalcollective.komi.io
• Co-Host: Dr. Dan, M.D. → https://www.instagram.com/docdanmd?igsh=aDZqaGliZWQ5ajl3

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🎧 Ketamine Can Be a Powerful Tool — a discussion with Dr. Atoosa Kourosh and a child psychiatrist on mental health, stigma, and when to consider mental health support for children.

In this solo episode Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D., takes a deep dive into one of the most alarming trends in modern healthcare: the rise of cancer in younger populations. Why are we seeing more cases in people under 50? From lifestyle factors to environmental exposures to genetic predispositions, Dr. Davis explores the possible drivers of this trend and what it means for prevention, diagnosis, and public health.

She also shares the importance of early detection, ongoing research, and the vital role of annual medical visits in catching cancers at earlier stages.

Key Topics Covered:

• Current statistics on early-onset cancers
• Lifestyle and environmental factors (diet, processed foods, pollutants)
• Genetic risks and hereditary syndromes
• Screening guidelines and debates for younger populations
• The importance of regular annual exams for catching cancers early
• Why this trend matters for the future of healthcare

Resources & References:

• American Cancer Society (ACS): https://www.cancer.org
• National Cancer Institute (NCI): https://www.cancer.gov
• CDC Cancer Trends: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/research/articles/cancer-trends.htm
• KFF Health News – Cancer in Young Adults: https://kffhealthnews.org
• Mayo Clinic – Cancer Prevention: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/cancer-prevention

Connect with Us:

• Dr. Keisha Davis, M.D. (Host): https://drkeishadavis.komi.io
• The Medical Collective: https://themedicalcollective.komi.io

Recommended Episode:

🎧 We Should Not Be Cancer-Shaming — explore the stigma and misinformation around cancer that impacts patients and their care.