To provide the information your oncologist is not telling you or doesn't have the time to!
Exploring the Human Side of Cancer Through Art and Stories
Immerse yourself in the human experience of cancer through our “Art of Oncology” category. Here, we delve into the emotional and personal aspects of cancer diagnosis and treatment. Explore stories of courage, resilience, and hope shared by survivors, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Experience the healing power of art, creativity, and storytelling as we navigate the profound impact of cancer on individuals and their families.
Introduction Veterans have served and sacrificed, often facing unique health risks during and after their time in the military. Among these health concerns is an increased risk for certain cancers due to exposure to hazardous environments and substances. On this Veterans Day, let’s take the opportunity to discuss cancer risks specific to Veterans, how service …
Tumor markers like CEA or CA 19-9 are substances, often proteins, that can be found in the blood and sometimes rise when cancer is present or progressing. For example, CEA is often elevated in colorectal cancer, and ctDNA can offer clues about the genetic profile and potential for MRD negative status of certain cancers like …
Prostate cancer continues to pose a significant challenge for both patients and healthcare providers. In the realm of radiation therapy, the development of advanced techniques has transformed the landscape of treatment. A recent phase 3 trial comparing Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) to conventional radiotherapy for intermediate-risk prostate cancer provides new insights into how we can deliver effective …
A cancer diagnosis can feel like an overwhelming challenge—not just in terms of health, but also financially. For many patients, the initial phase of diagnosis requires multiple tests, specialist consultations, surgeries, pathology, and imaging services. Depending on the cancer’s location, stage, and any spread to other organs, additional tests like molecular diagnostics or ancillary treatments …
The journey of treating patients with advanced cancer, like metastatic gastric cancer, often brings clinicians face to face with difficult conversations surrounding prognosis, treatment goals, and emotional dissonance. As we make strides in cancer therapies, the complexity of managing patient expectations, cognitive awareness, and emotional resilience becomes more apparent, both for patients and clinicians. A …
Hope for Advanced Bladder Cancer Bladder cancer is often like an unwelcome party crasher, popping up when least expected and causing considerable distress. Yet, in the realm of oncology, we are constantly seeking new ways to send such unwelcome guests packing. Today, I am thrilled to share some exciting news about a promising new approach …
Immunotherapy has made significant strides in cancer treatment, but microsatellite stable (MSS) metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) has long posed a challenge due to its resistance to immune-based therapies. However, promising results from a recent phase 2/3 trial have shown that the individualized neoantigen-directed immunotherapy, GRANITE, may change the outlook for patients with MSS mCRC. This innovative therapy, combined …
The world recently lost NBA legend Dikembe Mutombo to brain cancer, while former President Jimmy Carter continues to defy expectations. Despite being diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, including brain and liver metastasis he has just celebrated his 100th birthday. These two public figures have brought significant attention to CNS (Central Nervous System) malignancies, sparking curiosity about the different types of brain tumors, how …
On October 10, 2024, the FDA approved a new and promising treatment for patients with advanced breast cancer: inavolisib (Itovebi), in combination with palbociclib and fulvestrant. This new approval offers fresh hope for patients with endocrine-resistant, PIK3CA-mutated, hormone receptor (HR)-positive, and HER2-negative breast cancer, especially those whose disease has progressed after endocrine therapy. The approval also includes the FoundationOne Liquid CDx assay, a diagnostic test used to …
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spreading knowledge, supporting research, and empowering patients and healthcare providers alike. Throughout the month, we’ll explore various critical aspects of breast cancer care. In this post, we focus on the current role of immunotherapy in treatment and encourage both patients and providers to consider clinical …