Medicine in Our Backyard
You’re invited to attend the free Medicine in Our Backyard series to hear renowned UCI Health doctors and researchers speak on a wide range of health topics. The series is sponsored by the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation in collaboration with UCI Health.
Location
Newport Beach Civic Center - Friends Room
100 Civic Center Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Doors open 30 minutes before the presentations.
Topics
Sept. 28 – Protecting your vision: Understanding glaucoma
Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss, but early detection and treatment can help preserve your sight. Learn from UCI Health ophthalmologist Dr. Andrew Smith about glaucoma, its risk factors, warning signs, and the importance of early diagnosis, along with current treatment options and strategies to help protect your vision.
Oct. 29 – How our early-life experiences shape who we are
Join UCI neuroscientist Dr. Tallie Z. Baram as she shares groundbreaking findings on how early childhood experiences shape the brain and influence lifelong emotions and behavior. Learn what her UC Irvine study of nearly 30,000 Orange County children reveals about the surprising power of everyday family routines.
Learn from neurologist Dr. Brian Hitt how to recognize the early warning signs of memory disorders and when it may be time to seek medical evaluation. Dr. Hitt will walk participants through available diagnostic tools, treatment options, and the next steps to take if memory changes become a concern.
Join geriatric and internal medicine specialist Dr. Sonia Sehgal for an informative discussion on how to preserve brain health and prevent cognitive decline through lifestyle choices. Dr. Sehgal will share practical, evidence-based tips on mental stimulation, physical activity, nutrition, and social engagement to help you stay sharp as you age.
UCI Health gastroenterologist Dr. Anoushka Dua will explore how the digestive system changes after 60 and what you can do to support healthy digestion at every stage of life. From the gut microbiome to dietary strategies and common digestive concerns, Dr. Dua offers practical, science-based guidance tailored to older adults.
UCI Health geriatrician Dr. Elham Arghami and orthopaedic trauma surgeon Dr. James Learned team up to discuss how to reduce fall risk, protect bone health, and maintain strength and balance as you age. Together, they will cover what happens after a serious fall, what recovery looks like, and the practical steps you can take to stay safe, active, and independent.
UCI Health primary care physician Dr. Shannon Melcher will guide participants through the unique health needs of women at every stage of life, from essential preventive screenings to healthy aging strategies. Attendees will gain valuable insight into how proactive healthcare and lifestyle choices can support long-term wellness and quality of life.