Dr. Marie Pasinski, a neurologist at the Massachusetts General Hospital’s Chelsea Health Care Center, served as an expert commentator during a featured report on the “Today” show Wednesday morning.
Pasinski appeared on camera in a story about Will Shortz, editor of the New York Times crossword puzzle. Pasinki was asked to comment about the mental effect of doing crossword puzzles on people’s brains.
“Every time we engage our brain in a challenging activity, profound changes can occur and actually change the physical structure of the brain,” Pasinski told the national television audience.
An estimated five million viewers were watching as Pasinski appeared on the highest rated of the morning shows. NBC-TV contributing correspondent Jenna Bush Hager, daughter of former President George W. Bush, compiled the report and said that 50 million Americans on occasion do crossword puzzles.
Pasinski’s appearance on the “Today” show will enhance her growing national stature in the field of medicine. Pasinski is frequently called upon to speak at medical conferences and health events. She is also the author of “Beautiful Brain, Beautiful You: A 7-Step Guide To A Better, Smarter, Younger You.”