Ep 45: Brain Health = the New Vital Sign with Phyllis Ferrell

In this episode of Nurse Rosa’s INsights, host Rosa Hart sits down with Phyllis Farrell, a global leader in brain health and Alzheimer’s advocacy. With more than 25 years in healthcare—including two decades at Eli Lilly and Company, where she served as Global Head of External Engagement for Alzheimer’s and Neurodegeneration—Phyllis has shaped the development of late-stage Alzheimer’s treatments and now advises global initiatives through PBFerrell LLC, StartUp Health’s Alzheimer’s Moonshot, and the USC Schaeffer Institute, among others.

Rosa and Phyllis dive into the powerful connections between stroke prevention and Alzheimer’s care, why routine cognitive assessments should start at age 50, and how lifestyle changes can prevent up to 40% of dementia cases. Phyllis highlights the urgent need to expand clinical trial access, especially for women who are disproportionately impacted as both patients and caregivers. She also emphasizes the vital role of caregivers, the importance of public health campaigns to reduce stigma, and how advocacy and storytelling can empower individuals and communities.

Blending personal insight from her own family’s experience with professional expertise, Phyllis makes a compelling case for why brain health should be a public health priority—and what each of us can do to protect it.

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For more podcasts hosted by Rosa Hart, see "Stronger After Stroke", "The Lou Review" and "Aging Like A Pro".