UT Southwestern RedBird

09/25/2026

During APP Celebration Week, we’re recognizing six APPs and one APP champion who go above and beyond for our patients and community. From cancer care to community service, these honorees lead with compassion and make a meaningful difference through their dedication to others.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients:

(top row, from left)
• Ampili Jagan, D.N.P., APRN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-BC
• Benjamin Greenberg, M.D.
• Erica Knoll, M.P.A.S., PA-C
• Michael Levy, APRN, ACNP-BC

(bottom row, from left)
• Shalini Maharaj, M.P.A.S., PA-C
• Snoben Kuruvila, M.P.A.S., PA-C
• Sonali Weerasinghe, M.P.A.S., PA-C

Help us thank these exceptional health care providers in the comments.

09/25/2026

Planning for a baby or already expecting? Genetic screening can help you better understand certain genetic risks. Newer single-gene NIPT uses a simple blood draw as early as 10 weeks to screen for a growing number of genetic conditions. While it’s not diagnostic, it may help some families better understand their options and plan for care. Learn from a UT Southwestern genetic counselor about the benefits, limitations, and when testing may be recommended.

Learn how single-gene NIPT can screen for certain genetic conditions during pregnancy, its limitations, and when your care team may recommend it.

09/24/2026

Benjamin Levi, M.D., has been named Director of the Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research at UT Southwestern.

In his new role, Dr. Levi will advance research to understand, detect, and prevent debilitating conditions while fostering collaboration across specialties.

Learn more about his journey and vision for the Pak Center:

Levi named Director of Charles and Jane Pak Center for Mineral Metabolism and Clinical Research

09/23/2026

When you hear "facial rejuvenation," you may think of a facelift. But today's options include everything from skin care and injectables to laser treatments and surgery. Elizabeth Longino, M.D.,
a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery specialist, explains how personalized treatments can address volume loss, sagging skin, wrinkles, and more while helping patients achieve natural-looking results.

Learn how facial rejuvenation combines surgical and nonsurgical treatments to address signs of aging with natural-looking results.

09/23/2026

Can cooking skills help people better manage Type 2 diabetes?

UT Southwestern researchers explored that question in a randomized clinical trial that brought physicians, registered dietitians, and chefs together to help adults with uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes turn nutrition advice into practical kitchen skills. Early findings were encouraging, but larger studies are needed to better understand the potential health benefits.

Learn what researchers discovered and what they hope to study next:

UTSW-led study sheds light on nutritional interventions for patients with diabetes

09/22/2026

For years, Type 2 diabetes shaped nearly every part of Justin Tuck’s life. What began with a diagnosis in his 20s eventually progressed to insulin dependence, kidney failure, and dialysis.

Then came a call that changed everything.

Justin received a kidney-pancreas transplant at UT Southwestern, marking the first procedure of its kind since the Pancreas Transplant Program was reestablished in 2025. Today, he is living without insulin or dialysis.

“This was a true blessing, and I feel like I have a whole new life.”

Read Justin’s story and meet the team behind his care. https://bit.ly/4hupbbQ

09/22/2026

Considering a GLP-1 medication or already taking one?

At Weight Wellness Day 2026, UT Southwestern physicians and experts will discuss what you should know about today's weight-loss medications and how they fit into a broader approach to weight and health.

Join us Saturday, Oct. 10, for this free event featuring expert presentations, a cooking demonstration, complimentary lunch, and more.

Register today: https://bit.ly/3YMVFFy

09/22/2026

Adults 50 and older now have a new flu protection option. The FDA has approved the first mRNA influenza vaccine. Like other flu vaccines, it helps your immune system recognize and fight the virus, reducing the risk of severe illness. UT Southwestern expert explains how the vaccine works, who should consider it, and when to get vaccinated this flu season.

The first mRNA flu vaccine is available. Who should get it and how does it compare to other flu vaccines? A UT Southwestern expert explains.

09/21/2026

Every day, Advanced Practice Providers bring expertise, compassion, and dedication to each patient interaction, helping shape better experiences and clinical outcomes across UT Southwestern.

This week, we proudly recognize our clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse midwives, certified registered nurse anesthetists, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners who help move our mission forward. Thank you for your tireless commitment to our patients and the communities we serve.

09/21/2026

Women are more likely than men to develop knee osteoarthritis, but researchers are learning that the reasons may start much earlier in life than previously thought.

UT Southwestern research is uncovering differences in male and female knee cartilage that could help explain why women face a higher risk of arthritis. The good news: Healthy habits, injury prevention, strength training, and early treatment of knee injuries may help protect joint health for years to come.

Learn the early signs of knee osteoarthritis, practical prevention strategies, and when it's time to see a doctor:

Women face a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis. Learn why, how to protect your knees early, and when to seek treatment.

03/27/2026

Tens of millions worldwide have dementia, neurodegenerative diseases that affect memory, thinking, and daily routines. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has been identified as a risk factor for dementia and has been associated with dementia symptoms, such as...

03/16/2026

03/16/2026

Coping with cancer can take a toll not just on the body, but on the mind, too. Join our cancer mental health experts, known as psycho-oncologists, for a new webinar series focused on mental health and cancer.

These live virtual sessions will take place every Tuesday at noon and are designed to provide support, education, and practical strategies for patients, caregivers, and family members.

No pre-registration is required — simply join when you’re able.
For more information, including Zoom links, visit: https://bit.ly/4bdJDdX.

03/16/2026

Recorded from a live webinar on March 4, 2026.Medical oncologist Nilesh Verma, M.D., and colorectal surgeon Laindy Liu, M.D, lead a patient-focused webinar a...

03/04/2026

Your future in patient care starts here. 🏥✨

The UT Southwestern Patient Care Technician (PCT) Residency is accepting applications now.

In collaboration with Dallas College, this 12-month program is designed to bridge the gap between "learning" and "doing." Whether you’re a newcomer to the field or looking to elevate your skills, we provide the foundation you need to thrive.

Applications close on March 13th. Apply now: https://bit.ly/4cqwbEH

03/04/2026

Due to expected inclement weather, the "She Speaks. She Knows. She Lives. HPV/Cervical Cancer Day of Awareness, Empowerment & Action" event originally scheduled for Saturday, March 7 has been postponed.

The safety of our guests, speakers, and partners is our top priority. The new tentative date is Saturday, April 25. Updated event details and confirmation will be shared soon.

There's still time to register! This Saturday, March 7, , the South Dallas/Fair Park Faith Coalition, and Antioch Fellowship Church will host a morning of education and empowerment focused on women’s health and reducing your risk for cervical cancer. Tamika Felder: Speaker, Author & Patient Advocate will share her story of strength and resilience. Medical experts will discuss what you need to know to protect your health.

Join us for food, connection, resources, health screenings, and an opportunity to get vaccinated against . Learn more and register here: https://bit.ly/3Mdcdmh.

03/03/2026

As a young girl, Shawna Nesbitt, M.D., the John C. Vanatta III Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine and Vice President and Chief Institutional Opportunity Officer at , was introduced to the challenges of managing blood pressure.

“When I was growing up, my family always talked about going to the doctor for their blood pressure, but no one ever mentioned it being controlled,” Dr. Nesbitt recalls. Seeing the effects of stroke and heart disease in her family and community, she became determined to make a difference.

Dr. Nesbitt specialized in cardiology and focused her career on evaluating and treating blood pressure disorders — both high (hypertension) and low (hypotension)—particularly in patients with difficult-to-treat conditions or unmet needs from primary care.

“I knew that if I was going to be a doctor, I wanted to help people suffering from what I saw as a major problem. It’s my passion, and as one of my mentors once told me, ‘If you follow your passion, excellence will always follow.’”

Since joining in 2001, Dr. Nesbitt has made significant contributions, including being named a D Magazine Best Doctor in 2016 and 2017, receiving the 2023 Commitment & Dedication Service Award from the CV Roman Medical Society, the Dallas-Ft. Worth Chapter of the NMA, and the 2023 Loehr Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Heart Association/Woven Heart Healthy Lives Committee. She also serves as a mentor to many UTSW medical students.

Dr. Nesbitt, thank you for your unwavering dedication to UT Southwestern and for providing exceptional care to the North Texas community.

02/23/2026

Join the fight against sickle cell disease.

Did you know that sickle cell disease (SCD) affects about 100,000 people in the United States, with more than 90% being non-Hispanic Black or African American, and an estimated 3%-9% being Hispanic or Latino? And many people with SCD do not receive the recommended health care screenings and treatments. ‌

Help change that by joining the UT Southwestern community for a health fair offering important resources and education toward raising awareness of SCD in recognition of Black History Month.

The event will include a lunch-and-learn and staffed booths featuring UTSW departments specializing in sickle cell, culinary medicine, clinical research, and more.

📅 Friday, February 27
⏰ 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
📍 3450 W. Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas, TX 75237

Come out, bring a friend, and take a proactive step toward better health.

Register Today
https://forms.office.com/r/Kfw5HGJMp9?origin=lprLink

02/20/2026

Join us on Wednesday, Mar. 4, for a patient-focused webinar about colorectal cancer led by medical oncologist Syed Kazmi, M.D., and surgical oncologist Laindy Liu, M.D. 💙

This session will highlight the latest advances in colorectal cancer treatment and will cover details about what to expect as you navigate this diagnosis, both in the short term and long term.

Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions during a live Q&A, or you can submit your questions ahead of time when you register.⭐

Register here: https://utsouthwestern-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_nom0IGvXQfOkDnupOvTA8g #/registration