The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with USA Health urologist about prostate cancer and men's health. They start by weighing the reasons for why some men avoid seeing a physician and discuss how the advent of Viagra for erectile dysfunction helped motivate many men to go to a doctor’s office. Dr. Keel highlights the importance of screening for prostate cancer starting at age 40 or 45 depending on family history. He explains how robotic surgery has improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects. Dr. Keel also explores the usefulness of genetic testing for high-risk patients and how new...
info_outline Staying Well During Cold And Flu SeasonThe Cancering Show
In this episode of the Cancering podcast, Dr. JYP discusses how to avoid illnesses such colds, flu, and COVID while undergoing cancer treatment. She offers practical tips such as handwashing, using up-to-date hand sanitizer, and avoiding others who are ill. Dr. JYP gives advice on when to wear a medical mask and when to use an N95 to reduce the risk of infection. She also talks about the importance of home testing for COVID and flu, as well as when to call the doctor's office for certain symptoms. This episode covers the usefulness of supplements such as vitamin D and zinc, which can...
info_outline Advocating For Africatown with Rev. Christopher WilliamsThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce interviews Rev. Christopher Williams Sr., pastor of Yorktown Missionary Baptist Church, about the struggles and resilience of Africatown, Alabama. Rev. Williams highlights the powerful impact of community support and the opening of the Africatown Heritage House Museum. He discusses high rates of cancer in his congregation and the area, and environmental concerns related to a now-closed industrial plant. Despite frustrations, local advocacy has led to positive changes, including new community resources to improve the lives of residents. Rev....
info_outline Overcoming Ocular Melanoma with Ashley McCraryThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with , a mother of four and survivor of ocular melanoma. Diagnosed in 2012, Ashley recalls that two of her college friends from Auburn University had also suffered from this rare eye cancer. She tells the story of having her right eye removed and how she later learned that the cancer had spread to her liver. Despite her devastating diagnosis, Ashley shares how she stays positive and finds purpose through her faith and intentional interactions with fellow eye cancer survivors and others. She talks about her foundation, , which helps fund travel for cancer...
info_outline Meet Your Cancer TeamThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce focuses on the importance of building a strong cancer care team. She explains the roles of various medical team members, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and different types of nurses and nurse practitioners. She also highlights nonmedical support staff like social workers, nutritionists, and counselors. Dr. JYP emphasizes the value of relying on your caregivers and fellow patients for support, and the need to inform primary care doctors and other specialists about your cancer diagnosis. She briefly...
info_outline Summertime CanceringThe Cancering Show
In this episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. JYP discusses the importance of cancer patients taking extra precautions during summer activities. She explains the sensitivity of chemotherapy patients' skin to sunburns and advises using mineral sunscreen and protective clothing. Dr. JYP also highlights the risks of swimming in certain types of water, the importance of proper head and hair care, and the need for hydration and avoiding strenuous activities in the heat. She offers other practical tips for those who are traveling, gardening, fishing and picnicking. Don’t worry; cancer patients can...
info_outline Clinical Trials, Biomarkers and Cancer Astronauts with Fred NeubauerThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Fred Neubauer, a stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma survivor, shares his inspiring journey with Dr. JYP. Fred’s rare bile duct cancer was discovered during imaging for a kidney stone. Facing a challenging diagnosis, he explored advanced treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and innovative clinical trials, which helped shrink his tumors. Despite the difficulties, Fred remains hopeful and proactive in managing his cancer. Dr. JYP emphasizes the significance of biomarker testing, which helped Fred access treatments tailored specifically to his cancer's characteristics. Fred...
info_outline A Caregiver's Journey Through Brain Cancer With Michelle MatthewsThe Cancering Show
In the episode, Dr. JYP delves into the heart of living with, and beyond, brain cancer with Michelle Matthews. Michelle shares her husband Matt's journey with glioblastoma and how they remained hopeful throughout the diagnosis and treatment. Despite the challenges, they cherished every moment together and found solace in support from their loved ones and community. Michelle also stresses the importance of self-care and the role of caregivers in cancer treatment and survivorship. Dr. JYP emphasizes the significance of shared experiences and compassionate care in the cancer journey. Ultimately,...
info_outline Advance Care Planning with Stephanie BroussardThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with licensed clinical social worker about the importance of patients sharing their wishes regarding palliative and end-of-life care. Broussard stresses the need to include a social worker as part of the cancer care team from the point of diagnosis to address emotional distress. She explains that palliative care, which focuses on relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness, is different from hospice care, which is a Medicare benefit and service for those with a terminal diagnosis. shares why it's vital for everyone, even young adults, to have a...
info_outline Five Years of Survivorship with Gina GregoryThe Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with , a breast cancer survivor and a second-time Cancering Show guest. Gina shares her journey five years after her initial diagnosis, discussing the difficulties of living with cancer and the side effects from treatment, such as receding gums and ringing ears. She is open about the challenges, as well as the strength and faith she gained along the way. Gina offers advice on how survivors can manage their health after cancer, including eating a balanced diet (and finding a middle ground with organic foods), and making time for regular workouts. Having...
info_outlineIn this Cancering episode, Dr. JYP is joined by oncologist Dr. Ayesha Munir as they tackle the complex and crucial topic of breast cancer and health disparities. Together, they explore the impact of socioeconomic status on health inequalities, the challenges faced by different racial groups in accessing breast cancer screening, and the concerning prevalence of triple-negative breast cancer among African American women.
They discuss the research into the biological underpinnings of triple negative breast cancer and the promising developments in immunotherapy. This is an episode you won't want to miss as we unravel the layers of breast cancer, health disparities, and the path forward toward equitable healthcare access and improved outcomes.
3 Episode Key Takeaways
1. Health disparities significantly impact breast cancer outcomes and require national-level solutions and equitable healthcare access. African American women have a higher risk of triple negative breast cancer, highlighting potential biological differences and the impact of systemic racism.
2. Immunotherapy shows promising results in improving outcomes for aggressive triple negative breast cancer.
3. Stress and cortisol levels may impact disease biology, particularly in the Black population.
Show Overview
01:00 Focus on immunotherapy breakthroughs.
04:35 Interest in health disparities, focusing on breast cancer.
07:53 Health disparities awareness and support for communities.
13:02 Improving outcomes amid breast cancer disparities.
16:36 Research suggests biological differences, with impact from systemic racism.
20:01 Progress in breast cancer treatment includes immunotherapy.
21:08 Immunotherapy improves outcomes for triple negative breast cancer patients.
32:15 Importance of providing financial relief for patients.