What awareness month is it??? Well, it is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. What is pancreatic cancer? What is the survival rate? What are the treatment plans? Are there any alternatives?
Professor Dr Li of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center discusses her study published in the June 24 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association on the relationship between high body mass index (BMI) and pancreatic cancer. Professor Biankin is the chairman of the NSW Pancreatic Cancer Network also explores the disease and the treatments involved. Most importantly, you will also hear from those who are directly affected by pancreatic cancer.
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.
The next question most people who have been diagnosed with cancer want to know the treatment plan. Dr Suni Patel answers some questions on the most common form of cancer treatment - chemotherapy.
How does chemotherapy work?
Does chemotherapy hurt?
What is the biggest myth about chemotherapy?
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.
Naturally, you have questions. After the heavy clouds have cleared up a bit and amidst the fog, there are so many emotions flooding through and the fear of the end result takes over. Let us explore some things you may need to help you through this uncertain journey.
Dr Nikesh Jasani of the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center takes on some questions to help you navigate and understand the initial process.
What is a common misconception patients have about their physician?
What do patients often forget to tell their physician?
When do you seek a second opinion?
What is the best way to maximize your time with the doctor?
What should you expect at your first appointment?
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.
Yes, it is difficult enough to discuss a cancer diagnosis with others. However, when it comes to speaking with your child it can be quite a different task. Dr. Oliver Bogler is a Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs of MD Anderson and he is also a cancer biologist and a breast cancer patient. One can imagine how he may be able to master the art of communicating with others. However, when it comes to a cancer diagnosis and having young children, the ease of communication may be a challenge. Listen as Dr. Bogler shares an approach in having that conversation with your child. Do you know someone who may be hesitant in discussing their cancer diagnosis with their child? Please share, who knows - this may be helpful to someone.
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.
Early last fall, I was elated to be among the attendees at the M.D. Anderson Moon Shots Program Announcement. This announcement still brings a sense of excitement as I recall how they spoke of the cancers that they were focusing on, one in particular stands out - myelodysplastic syndrome.
Myelodysplastic syndrome occurs when the blood-forming cells in the bone marrow are not making healthy blood cells, they are damaged an ineffective to maintain good health. As a result, it may lower the red blood cells, the white blood cells or the platelets. This form of cancer was once referred to as acute myeloid leukemia. However, due to it's distinct effect, it now stands on its own as myeloidysplastic syndrome (MDS).
Although I did not speak personally with Holly Easley, I saw her at the event. Holly is a myeloidysplactic syndrome survivor. She is vibrant with a great style of her own and as a survivor, she wore it well.
For a familiar face, we feature Good Morning America's Robin Roberts who shares her journey with MDS. Battling cancer for the second time was no easy feat. In fact, many were wondering if she would be able to make it through. Thankfully, Ms. Roberts was willing to share her journey with us and in doing so, she not only inspired others, it brought attention to the disease. According to ABC News, bone marrow donors have increased. Be sure to listen to her incredible journey.
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme - cancer changes our lives forever.
It all began with an invitation to attend an event at MD Anderson Cancer Center. This was not an ordinary invitation, this one was different. A major announcement of the initial cancers will be addressed as part of their Moon Shots Program, a highly-concentrated effort to rapidly and dramatically decrease suffering and death from cancer. How exciting?!! Anything that promised to make a difference in the realm of cancer - I just had to be there.
And off I went to Houston, Texas. Totally excited! Get your snacks, this is going to be good.
The big day arrived, Friday, September 21st, 2012. There was a breakfast reception where the invited guests mingled and met the President of MD Anderson Cancer Center, Dr. Ronald DePinho. The conference room was filled with a mix of medical staff, cancer patients/survivors and their families as well as the media. I found my seat and waited with a smile. You cannot imagine how happy I was, happy for the news that will affect the lives of so many.
Dr. DePinho opened up with a welcome, introduced the guests on the stage and the moment that I waited for had come - the launch of the Moon Shots Program. This program will dramatically accelerate the pace of converting scientific discoveries into clinical advances that reduce cancer deaths.
Here are the 8 cancers that the program will target on the initial launch:
**Acute Myeloid Leukemia/Myelodysplastic Syndrome
**Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
**Melanoma
**Lung Cancer
**Prostate Cancer
**Triple Negative Breast and Ovarian Cancers - two cancers linked at the molecular level.
Tears of joy flowed as I thought of the families who would be able to enjoy their time with their loved ones - living longer lives. Weddings, graduations, concerts, births, baptisms, christenings, confirmations, bar and bat mitzvahs and other important events will be shared together.
As we follow the journeys of those whose lives have been touched by cancer, it gave me a thrill to be a part of such an ambitious program. Stay tuned for more on the MD Anderson Moon Shots Program and the wonderful people I met there. Coming soon the journey of a newlywed couple who are both fighting cancer.
Survival is quite a journey which Gail Goodwin, Beth Rosenthal and Brenda Brady can all relate to as they have faced brain cancer. Can you imagine hearing that you have just been diagnosed with brain cancer? No one knows what it will be like until they hear those words - you have cancer. Listen to these somewhat difficult yet incredible journeys and please share with others as someone you know may need to be inspired or encouraged.
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme cancer changes our lives forever.
A moment to hear from a survivor who had quite an incredible journey. In 2010, Lindsay Jones was diagnosed with melanoma but she was pregnant. Listen to her journey and how the team approach helped her to survive!
While each journey is unique, we all share a common theme, cancer changes our lives forever...
