133 | Prion Diseases | Why We Do What We Do
What to Expect
This was a creepy discussion that maybe would have been better suited to a Halloween episode. We break down the process of brain deterioration from misfolded proteins called “prions” [pree-awnz]. Perhaps you’ve heard of Mad Cow disease, Crutzfeldt-Jakob disease. These are types of prion diseases. Unfortunately, prion diseases have no cure and cannot be prevented by heating or otherwise chemically treating food containing prions. Prion diseases have a 100% fatality rate within 2-3 years of diagnosis. Furthermore, it is unlikely to be diagnoseable until destruction is nearly complete. The only strategy we have is to try and prevent this disease by avoiding consuming things that are likely to cause it.
ATTENTION! We are doing a special promotion! If you complete a listener survey, you will earn a WWDWWD sticker in the mail and get entered to win a free t-shirt! The survey shouldn’t take longer than 3-10 minutes and is completely private. We will NOT share your data or information with anyone else. Follow this link https://forms.gle/ogarcXvK7RFZXytS8 to receive a sticker, be entered to win a free shirt, and to help us make the best show for you!
Listen in, and remember that you can reach us directly at 775.525.0908, at info@wwdwwdpodcast.com, through the comments below OR on social via @wwdwwdpodcast or #wwdwwdpodcast.
Links for Today:
https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn91-bse-disaster-the-history/ (old article describing story of first recognizing prion disease in cows)
https://www.cdc.gov/prions/index.html (CDC’s list of prion diseases for humans and animals)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bovine_spongiform_encephalopathy (Wikipedia on mad cow disease)
https://www.cbc.ca/news2/background/madcow/ (2006 news article of the history of mad cow disease in the Americas)
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/all-about-bse-mad-cow-disease (FDA description of mad cow disease)
Any amount helps us achieve our goals.
We have all new levels and perks for joining us on Patreon. Help us reach our goal!
All donations go back into the podcast, and we update where each dollar is spent here each year. Here's what we're looking to purchase and cover the cost of in the coming year:
Higher Quality Recording Equipment (Microphones, cameras, etc.)
Advertisements on various social media platforms to build the Why We Do What We Do Community
Designer time to create more Merch for our Patreon supporters
More integration and website development to enhance functionality and ensure a fluid experience
Click the image below to support now!
Listen Right Now On Apple Podcast
Listen Right Now On Soundcloud
Listen Right Now On Google Play Music
Listen Right Now On Stitcher
The Why We Do What We Do Crew
Scott "Abraham" Miller | Host & Producer
Ryan O'Donnell (RYANO) | Co-host, Producer, & Social
Shane Spiker | Co-Host
Miranda Marie Drake | Contributing Member
Amber Groat | Marketing
Andrew Pawlik | Digital Designer
Justin Greenhouse | Musician & Producer
Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio