Agenda April, 2025

Understand what a direct pay practice is, learn what the best practices for this type of practice are and transcend the fear of moving from insurance-based to direct pay practice. Attendees will be asked to envision the ideal Age Management Practice they wish to develop.

Understand the range of services than can be offered from an Age Management Practice and understand how you can develop a menu of services that will fit you and your practice.

Diagnosing the Age Management Patient is critical to formulation of a personalized patient treatment plan. This lecture will provide attendees with options regarding diagnostic tools and procedures.

We have a captive audience with the patients we see every day. They trust our judgments and that is why they seek us out for their medical care. The trust can be translated into other products and services that we provide in our clinical practice – everything from cosmetic products and procedures to carrying a line of high quality nutraceuticals. The educational process to “sell” these products and services does take some upfront time. Once the patient/consumer becomes part of the process to utilize these products and services it can become a critical recurrent part of your revenue stream. The questions is, what products and services should you offer and how do you decide what these products and services should be? During this presentation I will help you outline how to start with the basics and in time build/create that revenue stream even when you are not physically seeing the patient.

Creating programs that will incorporate your defined services, creating a real change in the health of patients and retaining patients are critical to the success of your practice.

Building Your Practice with DEXA: Key Metrics, Improved Patient Outcomes, New Clients & Competitive Advantages

Presented by Tony Orlando

Non-CME Symposium Sponsored by DEXA Plus

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

A culture of excellence starts with the right team and brand. How your patients perceive your practice is essential to developing trust, thus increasing referrals and patient retention. Learn how to engage your team in creatively promoting, not selling, your services to current patients and prospects. What employee skills will be essential?

How to secure new patients and retain current patients through appropriate branding and marketing programs is essential to success.Development of a Marketing Plan, Patient Retention, & Social Media.

In “Your Marketing Playbook: Step-by-Step Execution for Patient Growth in Anti-Aging Medicine,” you’ll gain a clear, actionable strategy to attract and retain patients in the rapidly evolving age management field. This session will provide you with proven tactics and a straightforward playbook to enhance your visibility, credibility, and engagement—helping you stand out from competitors and bring immediate ROI to your practice. What You Will Learn:

Dr. Rush has years of experience as an Age Management Physician, Practice Owner and CEO. He will bring his experience and perspective to the course to discuss critical financial topics that are a must know for Age Management Physicians such as Transaction Management, Investment Accounts, Debt, Investments for Staff and Physicians, Mortgages, Life Insurance, College Savings Accounts and Social Security.

The Liability Entanglements of Running Your Own Practice: Don’t Let Your Corporate Veil Be Pierced
Art McOmber
Fortune Law Firm, Las Vegas, NV

Business owner doctors erroneously believe that setting up their practice as a corporation or LLC creates a shield of liability between their business assets and their personal assets. But setting up the entity is just one small step in creating protections that business entities afford. These protections, to be effective, also require adequate capitalization of the entity, observation of corporate formalities, and a strict division between what is the business and what is the individual. Learn what it takes to run a medical practice in a way that will afford all of the protections that the law provides.

Learn what to avoid to eliminate or reduce the inevitable problems and those pearls from experienced Practice Management Professionals that can help you succeed.

In this session, we will explore innovative and effective strategies for advertising within the regenerative medicine space. The talk will cover the unique challenges and opportunities in this field, emphasizing ethical, patient-centered marketing. We’ll delve into modern approaches like leveraging digital platforms for targeted outreach, employing data-driven insights to refine campaigns, and utilizing social proof to build trust. By integrating these strategies, practitioners can enhance their practice’s visibility and credibility while fostering informed patient engagement. Attendees will gain actionable insights to elevate their marketing efforts and align them with industry standards.

Selecting the procedures for your office that are profitable, efficient, simple to replicate and a good fit for your practice is critical.  After attending this workshop, you should get an excellent feel for procedures such as microneedling as a great way to generate income and can also be combined with LED/Exosomes & PRP. These are all examples of Aesthetic procedures that can be added and quickly adapted to your existing practice.

Many Aesthetics providers are reluctant to add PDO threads to their practice fearing that it is too complicated. This is good news for those willing to learn some basic techniques to get started and offer something that the competition does not have. We will explain the theory behind the absorbable threads and discuss the different types of threads that you can use in your practice. A live demonstration of smooth thread placement and a video demonstration of barbed thread placement will accompany the talk.

There are many advantages to combining treatments. Your patients will keep coming back to you for more if every time they come, they keep looking younger and younger. The skill is to know how to present these treatments so that your patients can’t wait for what you are going to offer them next. Dr. Song explains the concept of the 10K facial.

Advanced Aesthetic Technologies

Presented by Toney Howard

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Refine USA

Peels are a proven money generator. They are quick and simple to apply and can be delegated to your aesthetician or technician. Dr. Garries has been successfully

Exosomes and growth factors are becoming commonplace in the aesthetics practice and can be used with minimal training. You can’t buy these at Sephora. Dr. Jordan Plews is an expert in stem cell technology. He will explain how exosomes and growth factors harvested from stem cells can transform your patient’s skin and stimulate hair growth.

PRP and PRF Pure Bio Fill can easily be added to an existing practice. Learn how to use Natural PBF gel to perform full facial corrections. Tammy Polit, D.O. explains how you can make magic happen using regenerative powers of PRP and PRP gel.

A survey of the growing applications of Microneedling and PRP and how this started as a beauty treatment but has turned into a life-changing therapy.

Bring your questions. Our faculty will talk about what has worked and what has not worked over the years, along with a discussion of their favorite technologies and products. Tips from this talk will help you avoid common mistakes that could cost you valuable time and money.

Aside from routinely prescribing testosterone for men, it is important to understand many basic concepts before doing so. Wading through disagreements and issues with peers can also become problematic if you are not well-versed in the literature and controversies. Prescribing hormones for men can be simple; however, dealing with side effects and complications is not. This lecture will address common problems, complications, side effects, monitoring, understanding levels, erythrocytosis vs. polycythemia, prostate cancer and elevated PSA, use of 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, and aromatase inhibitors and the harm of blocking DHT and estrogen. Prescribing testosterone to men is easy 90% of the time. However, it is the other 10% that requires skill, experience, insight, and command of the medical literature to appropriately treat routine and confusing cases. This lecture will review many usual as well as unusual cases and scenarios that will enable the experienced clinician to handle those difficult cases. A literature review will be provided to support why we do what we do in various scenarios.

As practitioners in functional medicine and “age management,” our patients expect that we have and utilize the best options to guide them to optimize their health and protect them from the common problems associated with aging such as heart failure, stroke, osteoporosis, and cognitive impairment. Contrary to the standard RDA for nutrients, various factors that contribute to a person’s actual needs include: decreased ability to absorb nutrients, medications that may deplete the body of certain nutrients, and environmental factors that contribute to a greater need. This presentation will provide an overview of the mechanism of action of nutraceuticals and supplements in the protection from the untoward effects of inflammation, oxidative damage, endothelial dysfunction and how they can be applied in your practice for the prevention and treatment of common medical conditions seen in the aging population.

This lecture will provide an overview of proper assessment of women before hormone prescribing, available options for bioidentical estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone, dosage ranges, and appropriate follow-up. Emphasis will be placed on research along with significant clinical experience of the speaker.

Lunch Break

The Surprising Connections Between Cardiovascular and Joint Health

Presented by Derrick DeSilva, Jr., M.D.

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Calroy Health Sciences

One of the key components to Age Management Medicine is exercise. During this presentation, we will discuss the benefits of exercise and how to build an effective exercise program for beginner and advanced patients.

Precision medicine is becoming an important and essential part of Age Management Medicine. It can be used to uncover more appropriate drugs to take for a specific treatment, or to determine whether you’re at risk of having certain adverse reactions to a particular drug. It can even reveal your risk factors for developing certain illnesses later in life. The ability to discover diseases of aging through digital biomarkers before clinical symptoms emerge can be a game changer and can help to prevent unwarranted treatment and costs.

Obesity has gained epidemic proportions and is now the leading cause of chronic medical illnesses that occur as we age. Correcting obesity should therefore be paramount for every physician who practices age management medicine. Old concepts of weight loss, such as low-fat diets, have been shown to actually increase cardiovascular risks. The Mediterranean diet has been proven to have beneficial effects on health but, per se, may not provide a good option for losing weight. Newer concepts such as higher fat diets, ketogenic diets and fasting mimicking diets have accumulated a plethora of evidence that suggests these appear to be preferred options for patients to lose weight. Physicians should consider this new evidence when recommending weight-loss options.

This lecture will focus on the many aspects of a patient’s health and fitness that should be evaluated as part of the initial assessment. This assessment should provide the patient and clinician with information about the patient’s health and disease history, nutritional patterns, sensitivities and supplement history. Assessments of fitness, strength and balance are also considered to be essential to setting up goals for a healthy aging program. The measurement and interpretation of key aging biomarkers including hormones will be discussed. The impact of stress on our health and longevity is well known and should also be assessed from day one of beginning an age management program. Attendees should leave this lecture with a good understanding of a basic as well as advanced age management assessment protocol.

AMMG Welcome Reception

Open to all conference attendees, spouses and guests

Held in Conference Networking & Events Center

This session will address the basics of what a peptide is, what receptor does it interact with, how do peptides work, how many peptides do we have and which hormones are peptides. Some peptides are hormones and also neurotransmitters. In addition, how a peptide is synthesized in a lab will be reviewed. The benefits of peptides and where most of the peptides can be obtained will be covered. (As of May 21, 2023 using peptides in California is prohibited; we don’t know how one in California can obtain them.)

The history of the discovery of BPC157 will be covered and the only clinical human published study will be reviewed. The benefits and the dosing of different routes of delivery will be discussed.

Mitochondrial peptides can help with the production of energy, weight loss, improving on endurance and also with converting white fat to brown fat. The mitochondrial peptides dosing will be reviewed.

Growth hormone is an essential hormone in lowering body fat, improving on lipids, keeping muscles healthy and improving on bone density. Adult growth hormone deficiency symptoms will be reviewed along with the association of higher mortality with growth hormone deficiency. Unfortunately, treatment with recombinant human growth hormone is not covered under most insurance plans and it is also cost prohibitive for most people. There is an alternative to the expensive recombinant human growth hormone mostly commonly used for boosting IGF-1, and it has the advantage of inducing all five of the hGH isoforms rather than just the one that is found in the synthetic form. Tesamorelin, Sermorelin and others are peptides that will be reviewed.

There are peptides that can turn off the fibroblast cells to help produce collagen and to improve the dermis of the skin. Improving the thickness of the dermis can reduce wrinkles and also help the skin to look younger. These peptides are very popular in any wellness practice. The top cosmeceutical peptides will be reviewed.

Memory loss is a huge concern. Improving cognition is difficult but if peptides are used early with hormonal balance, improving the microbiome, and removing toxins in the body this functional medicine approach can help. Depending on what peptides are available in April 2025 we will discuss those peptides.

The pineal gland is found in vertebrates, mammals, amphibians, and in humans. Melatonin and Epitalon are both derived from the pineal gland. One of the benefits of Epitalon is that it has been shown to improve longevity both in animals and in humans. The human clinical trials from Russia that have been shown to reduce mortality and also cancer will be reviewed and the dosing protocols will also be covered.

The Surprising Connections Between Cardiovascular and Joint Health

Presented by Derrick DeSilva, Jr., M.D.

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Calroy Health Sciences

The peptides from the Thymus gland that are immune stimulating will be covered, along with the studies and the dosing protocols for both these peptides. If Thymus alpha 1 (TA1) and Thymulin are available in April 2025 then these peptides will be reviewed. If these peptides are not available then other novel peptides will be discussed to improve one’s immune system.

There are peptides that can help with cancer management. These peptides either improve the immune system or help with turning on the cancer suppression genes or turning off the cancer promoting genes. Met-enkephalin and other peptides will be discussed during this session.

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Autoimmune diseases are on the rise and are devastating. Balancing the immune system is one of the keys in improving autoimmune diseases. The dosing of the peptides of OGF, VIP and other peptides will be reviewed.

Peptides can reduce inflammation and help with post-surgical pain, trauma and also with neuropathic pain. The different peptides that help with pain will be covered including the dosing protocols.

Lecture Description TBA

AMMG Welcome Reception

Open to all conference attendees, spouses and guests

Held in Conference Networking and Exhibits Center

Lecture Description TBA

Adult Stem Cell Banking: Rationale and Methods
Luis Martinez, M.D.
President, XanoGene Clinic, San Juan, Puerto Rico
President, Regenera Global, Ponce, Puerto Rico

Lecture Description TBA

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The Surprising Connections Between Cardiovascular and Joint Health

Presented by Derrick DeSilva, Jr., M.D.

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Calroy Health Sciences

The link between autoimmune disorders and molds/mycotoxins. How to stop the progression of autoimmune diseases in patients and how to reverse the damage.

Discussion will include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, hypogonadism, early menopause, and abnormal uterine bleeding.

Clinical treatment options with actual case reports, including before and after photographs.

The Surprising Connections Between Cardiovascular and Joint Health

Presented by Derrick DeSilva, Jr., M.D.

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Calroy Health Sciences

Lecture Description TBA

Dr. Lee will discuss the mechanism of using Peptide BP1578 and how it works. In addition he will give a very preliminary report on the study he is involved in and some of the specifics and some anecdotal early results.

Back and hip pain are among the leading causes of disability, often requiring a multi-faceted approach for effective management. With the increasing concerns around opioid use and the risks associated with surgery, there is a growing demand for alternative treatment options. This presentation will explore non-surgical, and non-opioid solutions for managing back and hip pain. Attendees will gain an understanding of current advancements in non-invasive therapies such as regenerative medicine and targeted injections. The session will also address how to tailor individualized treatment plans to improve patient outcomes, reduce pain, and enhance mobility while minimizing risks.

The use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in clinical practice has become increasingly common in recent years, driven by claims that PRP can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, accelerate tissue repair, reduce pain and inflammation, and promote faster recovery from injury or illness. While anecdotal evidence from both healthcare providers and patients has contributed to the growing adoption of PRP, the literature on its efficacy remains mixed. This presentation aims to review and critically evaluate the evidence-based research on PRP’s effectiveness in clinical settings.

AMMG Welcome Reception

Open to all conference attendees, spouses, and guests

Held in Conference Networking and Exhibits Center

Providing Pioneering Care You Believe In & Accelerating Impact Influence & Income

Presented by Lé Santha Naidoo, D.O.  & Clint Arthur

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary breakfast

Non-CME symposium sponsored by Celebrity Entrepreneur

Dyslipidemia and Dysglycemia in men are commonly believed to be relentless and progressive medical issues that often lead to severe morbidity and mortality. Billions of dollars are spent treating the ravages of these common but often quite vexing pathologies. Typically treated with glycemic sensitizers, insulin, statins, PCSK9 Inhibitors and severe dietary restrictions (some of which are extremely expensive), the data from traditional treatment modalities is less than satisfying. Yet, volumes of well-done medical research shows that hormone optimization with Testosterone, Thyroid and Estradiol along with a balanced nutritional approach can in fact reverse Insulin Resistance, Type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia. In this presentation, I will show evidence-based medicine that clearly shows statins and PCSK9 Inhibitors to be marginal in effectiveness at best. They are associated with many significant and potentially dangerous side effects and should be severely restricted in their use. In this presentation I will dig deep into the medical evidence that supports the concept that a hormonal and metabolic approach is superior to the traditional medical approach and I will review a growing clinical success story showing substantial improvements in sugar metabolism, lipid metabolism and weight reduction in a large number of patients with hormone optimization and nutritional management alone.

The aging process is defined by two key factors: the loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), which drive chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and cellular aging. This “double whammy of aging” contributes to declines in physical function, vitality, and overall health, significantly impacting the quality of life. In this presentation, I will explore how testosterone and GLP-1 receptor agonists work synergistically to address these aging markers. Testosterone enhances lean muscle mass, improves insulin sensitivity, and restores energy levels, while GLP-1 therapies effectively reduce VAT, decrease inflammation, and optimize metabolic health. Together, these therapies represent a paradigm shift in age management medicine. The lecture will provide robust scientific evidence to support these claims, offering attendees actionable insights into utilizing these interventions to combat aging and improve patient outcomes.

The science of systems analysis (SA) is commonly used in pulmonology, cardiology, and all branches of medicine but has been less described in the treatment of female sexual function. This lecture will review the science of SA and how to deploy SA strategies (integrating recent sexual medicine research) to diagnose, treat and educate women for improved sexual function.

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Mastering the Art of Tax Strategy and Asset Protection

Presented by Art McOmber

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by The Fortune Law Firm

Menopausal symptoms can vary significantly from woman to woman. Some women get simple hot flashes, others get flashing accompanied by skin changes, depression and mood swings and even pain. Others have no symptoms at all. In this talk key underlying genomic differences contributing to hot flashes will be discussed and how you can respond to these contributing factors with more specificity. Genomic contributing factors to be discussed will range from estrogen metabolizing genes to serotonin receptors to the very important neurokinin 3 receptors. Understanding which of these contributing factors your patient has will help you understand their symptoms and choose appropriate interventions. Genomically targeted interventions for menopause that will be discussed include everything from herbs such as rhubarb extract and soy isoflavones to bio-identical hormone replacement to SSRIs to the newer neurokinin B inhibitor fezolinetant.

In this talk we will explore the history of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women, review the science of the last twenty years, and give a framework for HRT which not only treats menopause but promotes healthy and optimal aging. Once upon a time, hormone replacement therapy was a given. Every woman was put on HRT as a routine. Why suffer through menopause when there are readily available therapies to treat the symptoms which not only cause great discomfort but compromise intimate wellness and decrease lifespan? What happened? Why is HRT so controversial? And what are the data points showing now? In a world where women are not the focus of most medical research, how can we better serve them and improve their lives and productivity? And how can we, as anti-aging medical professionals, not only relieve the suffering of menopause, but put women on a path towards optimal aging with confidence? All of these topics will be discussed and answered.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the healthcare landscape, offering tools to enhance decision-making, streamline workflows, and personalize patient care. We will explore how physicians can integrate AI into a holistic systems approach to healthcare, emphasizing the interplay of biological, psychological, social, environmental, and spiritual domains in patient well-being. Drawing from clinical experience and case studies, demonstrating how AI enables a deeper understanding of complex adaptive systems in health, leading to proactive, personalized, and impactful interventions. Covering practical insights into leveraging AI tools to enhance patient outcomes, improve efficiency, and foster collaboration within healthcare teams, all while maintaining the human touch in medical practice.

Intersection of Preventive Medicine and Informatics/AI/Digital
Taylor Martin, D.O., MPH
Chief Medical Informatics Officer, Gillett Health
Preventive Medicine Physician, Cenegenics, Beverly Hills, CA

The digital age has brought forth a wave of technological advancements, from wearable devices to sophisticated AI-driven predictive analytics. These innovations hold unprecedented potential to revolutionize patient engagement, personalize care, detect disease early, and position the patient at the very heart of the healthcare paradigm. This presentation will delve into the integration of cutting-edge technologies within integrative healthcare practices, showcasing their transformative impact. Utilizing the pillars of lifestyle medicine as a foundational framework, we will explore the latest emerging technologies, review current literature, and demonstrate practical applications in an integrative setting. Our discussion will cover a spectrum of topics, including remote patient monitoring, preventive screening, predictive analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and large language models (LLM). We will illustrate how these tools can be harnessed to support mind-body interventions, optimize lifestyle modifications, and facilitate data-driven decision-making. Our presentation will highlight a diverse array of technologies, from medical-grade equipment to consumer-targeted innovations. Many consumer-oriented tools bypass the rigorous validation process mandated for FDA-approved technologies. Therefore, integrative medicine practitioners must adopt a discerning approach, rigorously evaluating research and exercising caution when integrating these tools into their practice. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the ethical considerations and challenges posed by the use of technology in medicine. These include data privacy, digital equity, and the responsible deployment of AI. We will propose strategies for identifying reliable evidence and judiciously adopting consumer-oriented technologies within an integrative medicine framework. By participating in this session, healthcare professionals will acquire a comprehensive understanding of how emerging technologies can complement and enhance integrative medicine practices. This knowledge will ultimately lead to a more holistic approach to healthcare delivery with a goal of improving patient outcomes.

Held in TBA

Continental Breakfast

Open to all attendees

Held in the Conference Hall

This presentation reviews a series of case studies focused on hormone and metabolic optimization through targeted interventions, with an emphasis on precision medicine and longevity. As the prevalence of metabolic disorders and age-related declines in health rise, innovative approaches to regulate hormonal balance and enhance metabolic functions are essential for improving health outcomes and promoting longevity. The case studies examined encompass personalized lifestyle modifications, nutritional strategies, pharmacological interventions, and targeted lab work, aimed at optimizing hormonal profiles and metabolic rates in various populations. Key findings reveal that precision medicine, through the use of genetic, biomarker, and phenotypic data, permits for tailored interventions that significantly improve metabolic markers and hormonal optimization.In conclusion, the integration of precision medicine strategies and individualized care can effectively tackle hormonal and metabolic dysfunctions, promoting longevity and enhancing quality of life. Continued research is essential to refine these interventions and understand the underlying mechanisms influencing hormone-metabolism interactions, paving the way for innovative therapeutic options in clinical practice.

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in blood clotting, wound healing, and bone health. People who don’t have enough vitamin K in their system are at greater risk of increased bleeding and bone fractures. Vitamin K is a group of vitamins that share similar chemical structures. Two different forms of vitamin K are most commonly found in the human diet. Vitamin K1, the predominant dietary form of vitamin K, is also known as phylloquinone. You can find it in plant foods such as leafy greens. Vitamin K2 — also called menaquinone — is found in some animal products and fermented foods. Your gut bacteria also produce it. The body absorbs vitamin K1 and K2 at different rates, which can affect the health benefits they each offer. During this presentation, we will review the critical synergy that vitamin D and vitamin K play and review some of the studies that show the role of vitamin K in disease prevention.

Lecture Description TBA

Ultra-processed foods (UPF) now account for most calories in many people’s diets. For adults and children, approximately 57% of their calories come from UPF, which has significant implications for short-term and long-term health. UPF consumption is associated with increased risks for heart disease, ADHD, depression, cancer, frailty, cognitive decline, osteoporosis, IBS, obesity, and all-cause mortality. In this talk, you’ll learn what UPF is, how these chemical constituents of food impact food quality, satiety signaling, the microbiome, disease risks, endocrine signals, and more. This talk provides clinicians with the intellectual framework, language, and understanding

This lecture will first distinguish between acute and chronic inflammation, as they are very different with the former being vital and the latter being detrimental. Dr. Lewis will discuss the latest research on how dietary behaviors/nutrition and certain nutrients, as dietary supplements, can help to counteract the deleterious effects of chronic inflammation, which is related to all of the major modern diseases. Dr. Lewis will present the findings of many clinical trials that demonstrate the effectiveness of the best dietary behaviors and dietary supplements that can be used for lowering inflammation and improving overall immune system function. All of the data will be published in leading peer-reviewed publications.

Lecture Title TBD

Presented by TBD

Open to all attendees and includes a complimentary lunch

Non-CME symposium sponsored by TBD

Inflammasomes are intracellular protein complexes that have been shown in recent literature to be involved in a number of common disease processes. Some examples include type 2 DM, atherosclerosis, CKD, autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, and many more pathologic conditions. This inflammasome activity is created and then activated in a two step process. The first step is assembly of the proteins involved in inflammasome construction (e.g. NLRP3 proteins). The assembly process is then stimulated by an acute or chronic upregulation of NFkB activity. This increase in NFkB can be initiated by pathogen exposure, damage to host tissues, or even by changes in cellular homeostasis (i.e. even positive changes in the current homeostasis of the patient can trigger NFkB and thus inflammasome assembly). These signals from NFkB lead to a nuclear transcription signal for pro-IL1-beta and pro-IL18 production within these immune cells along with a transcription signal for inflammasome proteins (e.g. NLRP3 proteins) to be made. Once these inflammasome proteins are made, they are then assembled within the ER of these cells (both immune and somatic cells) into inflammasomes. Inflammasomes in this assembled state are harmless as they have not yet been activated. The second step in inflammasome activity is activation, and it can occur through multiple potential triggers. The presence of PAMPs (pathogen associated molecular patterns), DAMPs (damage associated molecular patterns), K+ efflux from cells, extracellular ATP influx, Ca+2 influx, oxalate crystal influx, uric acid crystal influx, and the influx of cholesterol crystals can lead to activation of the assembled inflammasomes. This process of activation of inflammasomes within a cell if intensive enough can lead to a form of cell death called pyroptosis (“flaming cell death”). Unfortunately, this form of cell death as compared to apoptosis where most of the cellular contents are contained within a cell membrane leads to a “showering” of DAMPs into the extracellular space. This process can then lead to activation of other cells with assembled inflammasomes and then becomes a cascade of cellular destruction and tissue loss. Treatment for this process of inflammasome activity is dependent on prevention of inflammasome assembly and deactivation of activated inflammasomes. Prevention can include fasting, resveratrol or NAD+ as SIRT2 activators. This leads to deacetylation of alpha tubulin that inhibits formation of inflammasome assembly through separation of the ASC with the NLRP3 proteins. One can also prevent assembly through down-regulation of NFkB production using vitamin D3, fish oil (or SPMs), resveratrol and/or curcumin. The process of prevention inflammasome activation can be achieved through promotion of  both innate and Th1 immune cell activity. This process will have an impact of reducing PAMPs that can act as a trigger for the activation of assembled inflammasome. Helping to “clear debris” including extracellular ATP and mitochondrial DNA following cellular injury can also help through a reduction in DAMPs. Addressing other common activators of inflammasomes that are not due to cellular damage or pathogens is a strategy for treatment. This includes addressing low serum K+ (below 4.0 mmol/L), high uric acid, high oxalates, and high cholesterol levels as these can become intracellular triggers for inflammasome activation. Lastly, berberine (especially in liposomal form) appears to be a direct deactivator of inflammasomes. With this new understanding about inflammasome assembly and activation, we now have some useful tools in the fight against many of the most prevalent diseases that we face in the world today. Further research in this area should continue to provide information about how best to attack these debilitating and often times deadly conditions.

Dr. Pramudji will describe what intimate wellness is and why intimate wellness is such an important component of overall wellness. She will discuss ways that patients can connect with a partner while maintaining intimate wellness during the aging process. The field has many false ideas about sex and aging and she will identify these and discuss the variety of urological problems such as vaginal dryness, discomfort, and thinning of the skin that are frequently a cause of poor sexual quality.

This presentation will explore the intersection of brain health, gut health and longevity. It will focus on evidence-based strategies to preserve and enhance mental clarity and optimal gut health and  lean muscle mass as we age. By combining principles of integrative/functional medicine, I will highlight key lifestyle factors, nutrition, nutraceuticals/hormones/peptides, and emerging biohacking therapies to boost the neuroenteric connection and longevity of mind-body wellness.

Neuroinflammation is a critical factor in the development of neuropsychiatric illnesses, particularly those associated with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, TBI remains a significant burden, affecting a substantial portion of the U.S. population. The brain’s intricate neurochemistry regulates neuronal activity and relies on precise molecular interactions within cellular and neurotransmitter systems. Even minor disruptions to these interactions can lead to neurological pathology. Recent research has shed light on the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of trauma, increasing interest in its potential as a mediator of neuropsychiatric conditions. Neurotrauma-induced inflammation is a complex process involving various protein-chemicals, such as cytokines, chemokines, leukotrienes, and interleukins, which can activate microglia—a key component of the central nervous system’s immune response. Microglia react to injury rapidly, becoming chronically activated and perpetuating neuroinflammation and oxidative stress that can persist for years after the initial trauma. This chronic inflammation, specifically driven by IL-1β, TNF-α, and NFkB, coincides with the onset of mood and cognitive impairments. Furthermore, the presence of autoantibodies targeting ion channels and neuronal receptors, including N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R), voltage gated potassium channel complex (VGKC-complex), α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor (AMPA-R), γ-aminobutyric acid receptor (GABA-R) and dopamine receptor (DR), have been linked to neurological and major neuropsychiatric disorders such as psychosis, major depression, autism spectrum disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The conventional clinical approach to trauma-related neuropsychiatric disorders has relied on psychotropic medications, but this approach has limitations due to side effects and the lack of inflammatory control. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the role of neuroinflammation in neuropsychiatric illnesses is crucial for the development of more effective and targeted treatment strategies.

Continental Breakfast

Open to all attendees

Held in the Conference Hall

Blood flow restriction is an emerging therapy no longer relegated to hardcore fitness enthusiasts. By leveraging this technology we can improve lean muscle, decrease sarcopenia, enhance recovery and trigger muscle gains with lower risks in older adults, thereby increasing longevity and reducing overall morbidity.

Southeast Asia stands at the forefront of transformative healthcare innovation, presenting unparalleled opportunities for investment, strategic growth, and meaningful business expansion within its rapidly evolving wellness market. This presentation combines over two decades of leadership in healthcare and 26 years of expertise in hospitality, complemented by a robust network in real estate and investment. Together, these experiences unveil a nuanced understanding of the region’s immense potential for developing sustainable, patient-centric healthcare ecosystems. True transformation in healthcare stems from understanding and addressing the fundamental essence of wellness. This requires not only a commitment to preventive and lifestyle medicine but also the ability to diagnose the intricacies of a business model, evaluate its strategic foundations, and effectively deliver impactful results. By focusing on these critical dimensions, this talk offers a comprehensive exploration of the Southeast Asian healthcare and wellness industry, an industry poised for global leadership. The presentation delves into how innovative integration of hospitality principles including service excellence, personalized experiences, and operational efficiency has redefined healthcare environments to meet evolving consumer needs. It highlights how strategic investments in infrastructure, governance, and collaborative partnerships have fostered scalable and sustainable solutions that align with international benchmarks. Attendees will gain actionable insights into navigating the complexities of the wellness business landscape. This includes identifying lucrative investment opportunities, leveraging market dynamics, and understanding the critical role of collaboration across sectors to achieve innovation and sustainability. With a focus on evidence-based practices and citable data, this session aims to empower stakeholders with the tools and strategies necessary to drive lasting change and impactful outcomes. Beyond exploring opportunities, this presentation underscores the challenges and responsibilities inherent in building a healthcare ecosystem that genuinely addresses community needs. It calls for a unified vision that integrates wellness, business innovation, and social equity to create transformative models of care. By aligning strategic objectives with the fundamental principles of health and wellness, stakeholders can unlock the true potential of Southeast Asia as a global leader in healthcare transformation. This session provides a roadmap for redefining healthcare and wellness, offering a vision that balances innovation, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. It invites participants to rethink traditional approaches and embrace a holistic perspective that ensures lasting impact, not just within the region but on a global scale.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue that can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), placing a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. Interestingly, the incidence of ESRD appears to be increasing at a faster rate than the prevalence of CKD, suggesting that nephrologists worldwide are struggling to prevent the progression of CKD.
Ten possible reasons why chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become a global epidemic include:

1. Lack of awareness and effective programs to identify and prevent the early stages of kidney disease.
2. Exposure to food additives, chemicals, herbicides, insecticides, and air pollution.
3. Poorly controlled blood pressure. It is essential for everyone to have a blood pressure monitor at home and learn to track their own blood pressure.
4. The prolonged use of certain medications without recognizing their potential harmful effects on the kidneys. Extended use of proton pump inhibitors, sulfonylureas, statins, and analgesics has been linked to declines in renal function. Additionally, taking multiple medications can lead to drug interactions and adverse drug reactions.
5. Ignoring the significance of hyperuricemia as an additional risk factor for kidney failure and the progression of CKD. Elevated uric acid levels in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been associated with an increased risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Numerous studies have shown that reducing uric acid levels with allopurinol therapy can improve endothelial function, enhance blood pressure control, reduce cardiovascular events and hospitalizations, and most importantly, slow the progression of kidney disease in CKD patients.
6. Many nephrologists routinely advise patients with CKD to restrict fluid intake and prescribe diuretics, regardless of their volume status. The complications of unnecessary diuretic use include dehydration, hyperuricemia, and worsening kidney function.
7. Many doctors provide inadequate dietary advice to their patients, which not only proves ineffective in slowing the progression of CKD but can also lead to malnutrition and accelerate disease progression. They often overlook the importance of micronutrients, which can aid the body in recovery and healing.
8. Many doctors fail to recognize that acidosis is a major factor in the progression of CKD. They do not understand the distinction between acidemia and acidosis, nor do they appreciate how acidic foods—such as dairy products, soft drinks, and reverse osmosis water—can harm the kidneys. As a result, they often refuse to prescribe sodium bicarbonate in the early stages of CKD. Acidemia occurs when blood pH falls below 7.35, which is rare and typically only happens when the body’s regulatory mechanisms are overwhelmed by advanced conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. In contrast, acidosis is a process that leads toward acidemia. While blood pH may not change significantly, acidosis puts constant pressure on the body, causing cellular pH to become more acidic, which can lead to cellular and organ dysfunction. Acidosis may contribute to the development of multiple diseases, such as osteoporosis, kidney failure, infections, and even cancer. Over the past 30 years, our diets have become more acidic due to excessive consumption of animal proteins, processed foods, and phosphates used as preservatives in food and soft drinks. Additionally, certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors, can weaken the body’s cellular mechanisms to counteract acidosis. To help counteract this, consuming more alkaline foods, such as those in a whole plant-based diet, can help balance the body’s acid load. Studies have shown that alkaline diets and bicarbonate supplementation may slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.
   
9. When patients with CKD progress to end-stage kidney disease and require dialysis, many nephrologists are likely to earn more money from administering dialysis treatment than from dedicating time to efforts aimed at preserving kidney function in these patients.
10. Most importantly, many doctors, including nephrologists, still believe that once patients develop CKD, all of them will inevitably progress to end-stage kidney disease and require dialysis. If doctors themselves hold the belief that nothing can be done and lose hope, it is not surprising that many CKD patients also become hopeless.

The human microbiome contains bacteria, fungi, and viruses and is composed of trillions of microorganisms that directly impact health and disease. Although commonly thought of as being exclusive to the GI tract, the skin, oral cavity, vagina, and respiratory tract all contain their own unique microbiomes. The gut microbiome actively supports digestion and strengthens the immune system while maintaining homeostasis. Similarly, the skin harbors several microorganisms that protect the epidermal layer from outside invading species. Ditto for the oral cavity, vagina and respiratory tract. Practitioners must know the intricacies of the microbiome to discern the root cause of microbial and environment/internal milieu barrier dysfunction. Our Introduction defines the term “microbiome.” We explain its composition and highlight its contributions to human physiology and overall health.