How can we look after our amazing lungs?

How can we look after our amazing lungs?

July 7, 2026 · 28 min · Episode 155

About this episode

The episode explores the science of lungs, their health challenges, and ways to maintain lung health.

Welcome to What's Up Docs?, the podcast where doctors and identical twins Chris and Xand van Tulleken explore the ideas shaping our health and wellbeing. In this episode, recorded live at Crossed Wires Festival in Sheffield, they are joined by Professor Robin Condliffe, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Royal Hallamshire Hospital. Together, they explore the extraordinary science of the lungs: how they work, how they keep us alive, and what happens when they start to go wrong. From asthma, COPD and lung cancer to air pollution, smoking and respiratory infections, they discuss some of the biggest challenges facing lung health today. Along the way, they examine the links between lung health, deprivation and the environment, reflect on Sheffield's industrial heritage, and explore the latest advances in respiratory medicine. Finally, they ask what we can all do to keep our lungs healthier for longer. If you want to get in touch, you can email us at whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk . Presenters: Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken Guest: Professor Robin Condliffe Producer: Maia Miller-Lewis Editor: Jo Rowntree Executive Producer: Rami Tzabar Researcher: Grace Revill Production Manager: Lisa Lipman…

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