Fighting Cancer in Alabama: Insights from Dr. Scott Harris
Release Date: 02/05/2025
Understanding Skin Cancer with Dr. Harrison Howard
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with , a surgical oncologist who specializes in melanoma. Dr. Howard explains that not all skin cancers are the same, emphasizing that melanoma is more dangerous compared with basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. He highlights the importance of detecting melanoma early, as it is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. They discuss surgical and systemic treatment advancements, including the practice of sentinel lymph node biopsy and the game-changing benefits of immunotherapy. Dr. Howard says clinical trials are essential in improving treatment methods and...
info_outline
Art Therapy for Cancer Patients with Margaret Wielbut
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP welcomes , a trained art therapist who works with patients at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. Margaret delves into her personal journey, from discovering art therapy to implementing it in cancer care in Mobile, Alabama. She describes art therapy as a marriage between art and psychology, emphasizing its benefits for cancer patients in creating hope, reducing anxiety, and bringing purpose to the cancer journey. She shares stories about how art can turn clinical spaces into environments of light and creativity. Sponsored by the , the MCI’s art therapy...
info_outline
Liquid Biopsy Technology with Dr. Daisy Escobar
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP welcomes medical oncologist and hematologist Dr. Daisy Escobar to discuss her background and her expertise in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Escobar shares her journey to the Mitchell Cancer Institute and talks about her family. The conversation focuses on cell-free DNA technology, also known as liquid biopsy, which is used primarily for cancer surveillance and monitoring. Dr. Escobar explains the benefits and limitations of this technology, including how it compares with traditional biopsies and its potential in early cancer detection. The conversation also...
info_outline
Fighting Cancer in Alabama: Insights from Dr. Scott Harris
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP and State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris discuss the intersection of infectious disease and cancer in Alabama. Dr. Harris shares insights into the state's cancer trends, including the impact of delayed screenings during the pandemic, and disparities in cancer outcomes based on geography and race. They discuss the collaborative efforts among state agencies, nonprofits, and medical communities to combat cancer. They also delve into Alabama's strategic initiative, Operation Wipe Out, aimed at eliminating cervical cancer through vaccination, screening, and treatment....
info_outline
Chaplain Kim’s Holiday Tips for Cancering Patients and Families
The Cancering Show
In this heartfelt episode of The Cancering Show, Dr. JYP welcomes back Chaplain Kim Crawford Meeks to discuss the complexities of celebrating the holidays while dealing with cancer. They explore the bittersweet nature of the season, emphasizing the importance of modifying expectations, planning ahead, and cherishing moments with loved ones. Chaplain Kim shares practical advice on managing emotions, supporting family members, and including children in celebrations. They also discuss commemorating a loved one who is no longer present, and ensuring everyone feels valued and included. Whether...
info_outline
A Nonsmoker’s Cancer Story with Leah Phillips
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP speaks with Leah Phillips, a nonsmoker diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer in 2019. Leah emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-advocacy in health, sharing her journey from initial misdiagnosis to targeted therapy success. Despite an initial prognosis of six to 12 months to live, Leah has surpassed expectations with a targeted drug that led to significant tumor reduction and stability for over four years. Leah discusses her participation in clinical trials, the benefits of multimodal therapy, and her role in the . For more about Leah, see...
info_outline
Breaking Free From Nicotine: Insights With Susan Crutchfield
The Cancering Show
In this episode, Dr. JYP and guest Susan Crutchfield discuss the complexities of tobacco addiction and strategies for quitting smoking. They highlight the importance of nonjudgmental support, individual motivations ("your why"), and the availability of various medications and therapies. The dangers of vaping, especially among youth, are also covered, emphasizing nicotine's addictive nature and health risks. The Great American Smokeout is promoted as an event that encourages smoking cessation through peer-to-peer engagement. The significance of early lung cancer detection, particularly through...
info_outline
How to Read Your Results #3: Pathology Reports
The Cancering Show
Dr. JYP concludes a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. This episode delves into pathology reports and how patients can use them to better understand their condition. Dr. JYP describes the key elements of pathology reports and defines terms such as "benign," "malignant," “carcinoma,” and “sarcoma.” She discusses how detailed reports from biopsies aid in staging cancer and the implications for treatment options. She reminds listeners that pathology reports should always be discussed with a doctor, and that reviewing...
info_outline
How to Read Your Results #2: Blood Chemistry Tests
The Cancering Show
Dr. JYP continues a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. In this second episode, she discusses blood chemistry panels. She explains common abbreviations suck as BNP (basic metabolic panel) and CNP (comprehensive metabolic panel), guiding listeners through key components including sodium (NA), potassium (K), magnesium (MAG), kidney function tests (BUN and creatinine), and glucose levels. She discusses the importance of understanding normal ranges, the potential causes for abnormalities and the most common questions patients...
info_outline
How to Read Your Results #1: CBC Labs
The Cancering Show
Dr. JYP kicks off a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. In the first episode, she discusses the basics of the Complete Blood Count, or CBC, which shows levels of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets, highlighting the implications for high or low counts, especially for cancer patients. She also addresses treatments and precautions for those with low blood counts, urging listeners to feel empowered to understand their lab reports and to ask questions of their healthcare providers. 3 Key Episode Takeaways ...
info_outline
In this episode, Dr. JYP and State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris discuss the intersection of infectious disease and cancer in Alabama. Dr. Harris shares insights into the state's cancer trends, including the impact of delayed screenings during the pandemic, and disparities in cancer outcomes based on geography and race. They discuss the collaborative efforts among state agencies, nonprofits, and medical communities to combat cancer. They also delve into Alabama's strategic initiative, Operation Wipe Out, aimed at eliminating cervical cancer through vaccination, screening, and treatment. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes, regular screenings, and knowing one’s family medical history in preventing cancer. Dr. Harris encourages community involvement and awareness to improve cancer outcomes across Alabama.
3 Key Listener Takeaways
1. Impact of COVID-19 on cancer screenings: Dr. Scott Harris expresses concern over the interruptions in routine cancer screenings due to COVID-19. During the pandemic, many people postponed elective medical procedures, including crucial cancer screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and pap tests. This delay has led to more advanced cancer diagnoses and poorer outcomes.
2. Disparities in cancer outcomes: Dr. Harris highlights significant disparities in cancer outcomes based on geographic location, race, and socioeconomic status. Black residents and those who live in rural areas face a higher risk of developing cancer and dying from the disease. This suggests that social determinants such as access to healthcare, economic opportunity, and education play a significant role in cancer outcomes.
3. Operation Wipe Out and cancer prevention: Operation Wipe Out is a strategic plan to eliminate cervical cancer through vaccination, screening, and timely treatment. The initiative underscores the importance of the HPV vaccine, which can drastically reduce the risk of cervical cancer in women and several other cancers in both men and women. Public health efforts also focus on educating healthcare providers and the public about cancer prevention and available screening programs, particularly in underserved rural areas.