How I Survived Meth Addiction, Lung Failure, and Found Purpose
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 543 - Anthony Carrasco
Anthony Carrasco was a meth addict by 15, and nearly dead by 35. Diagnosed with PH after years of drug use, his story spiraled from homelessness to hospice. But a double lung transplant and a deep surrender to recovery transformed everything.
Treating Meth-Associated PAH Without Judgment
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 542 - Brandon Jakubowski, MD
Dr. Brandon Jakubowski takes us into the underrecognized world of stimulant-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension. From misdiagnoses to under-prescribing life-saving therapies, he lays out the systemic gaps and stigmas preventing patients from getting the care they need.
The Face of Addiction Isn’t Who You Think It Is
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 541 - Nicholas Kolaitis, MD
Once thought to be a West Coast issue, methamphetamine-associated pulmonary hypertension is now a nationwide and global crisis. Dr. Nicholas Kolaitis reveals how building trust with meth associated-PAH patients can lead to incredible turnarounds, including sobriety, trial participation, and successful transplant.
How Stigma Blocks Meth-PAH Treatment and How to Stop It
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 540 - Peter Leary, MD
Patients with methamphetamine-associated-PAH often arrive at clinics already carrying heavy shame. But shame shouldn’t be part of their medical history. In this compelling episode, Dr. Peter Leary explains how stigma — from both society and providers — can delay life-saving care. Learn how a change in mindset, language, and compassion can transform outcomes for a neglected and growing patient population.
The Hidden Epidemic: Meth and PH
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 539 - Vinicio de Jesus Perez, MD
Meth-PAH is on the rise across the United States, yet many patients are not receiving the treatment they need. Dr. Vinicio de Jesus Perez discusses the shifting demographics of meth users, the challenges of treating addiction in cardiopulmonary care, and the need for compassionate, stigma-free screening.
The Hidden PH Epidemic: What Methamphetamine Use Is Teaching Us About Pulmonary Hypertension
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 538 - John Kingrey, MD
Dr. John Kingrey exposes the rising crisis of meth-induced pulmonary hypertension, a condition spreading fast across the U.S. He challenges misconceptions, highlights urgent research, and stresses the need for compassion in treating both PAH and addiction.
The Importance of Having a Specialized Center for PH
I’m Aware That I’m Rare: the phaware® podcast
Episode 535 - Akshay Muralidhar, MD
In this episode, Dr. Akshay Muralidhar, Co-Director of the Pulmonary Hypertension Center of Excellence at Arizona Pulmonary Specialist in Phoenix, discusses the importance of having a specialized center for pulmonary hypertension. Dr. Muralidhar also highlights the challenges of managing patients with substance abuse issues, particularly methamphetamine use. Dr. Muralidhar emphasizes the importance of access to care, particularly for underserved communities, and the need for outreach programs to ensure that all patients have access to treatment options.