Breast Cancer Conversations

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Inside the VIKTORIA-1 trial with Dr. Rachel LaymanWhat the New Genitolasib Data Mean for ER+ / HER2- Metastatic Breast Cancer

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Laura sits down with Dr. Rachel Layman, breast medical oncologist at MD Anderson Cancer Center, to unpack what’s new in ER-positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer—and why clinical trials are not just a last-ditch option.

Dr. Layman walks us through the VIKTORIA-1 trial, a phase III study of a new IV drug (genitolasib, “G” for short) that targets the PAM pathway, which cancer cells often use to grow and outsmart standard hormone therapy. She explains, in plain language, what PIC3CA mutations are, what “wild-type” means, and why this trial is so exciting even for people without a PIC3CA mutation.

You’ll hear:

• Why ER-positive breast cancer is the most common subtype—and still a major driver of metastatic disease
• How clinical trials are designed, and why they’re often most powerful earlier in treatment (not only when “nothing else is left”)
• A clear explanation of the VIKTORIA-1 study design: who was eligible, how the drug is given, and what the results showed
• What “progression-free survival” means and how adding “G” changed the numbers compared to standard therapy alone
• Honest talk about side effects (mouth sores, rash, blood sugar changes), and how teams are preventing and managing them
• How patients can look up trials like VIKTORIA-1 and VIKTORIA-2 on ClinicalTrials.gov and bring these conversations back to their own oncologists

Whether you’re living with ER-positive metastatic breast cancer, supporting someone who is, or simply trying to understand the rapidly evolving science, this episode offers both education and hope.

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In this candid and empowering episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, Dr. Christy Thozer breaks the silence around sexual health, menopause, and intimacy after breast cancer. Together, we unpack the myths surrounding estrogen, discuss safe treatment options for vaginal dryness and low libido, and explore how to restore confidence and connection after treatment.

Dr. Thozer shares practical advice for talking with your healthcare team, navigating hormone concerns, and embracing your right to pleasure and quality of life.

If you’ve ever felt dismissed, embarrassed, or simply unsure how to start the conversation about sexual health after breast cancer—this episode is for you.

Takeaways

• Open conversations about sexual health are crucial for breast cancer survivors.
• Creating a comfortable space for discussions can help patients feel more at ease.
• Estrogen plays a vital role in women's health, especially post-menopause.
• Vaginal estrogen can be a safe option for managing symptoms of estrogen depletion.
• It's never too late to start treatment for vaginal dryness or libido issues.
• Intimacy can be rediscovered through open communication with partners.
• Patients should feel empowered to advocate for their health and ask questions.
• Healthcare providers need more training on sexual health and menopause.
• Vaginal estrogen is different from traditional hormone replacement therapy.
• Finding the right specialists can greatly improve quality of life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sexual Health and Menopause

02:47 The Importance of Open Conversations

05:32 Creating Comfortable Spaces for Discussion

08:28 Understanding the Impact of Estrogen Loss

11:05 Managing Symptoms of Estrogen Depletion

13:38 Exploring Treatment Options for Vaginal Health

16:26 Navigating Moisturizers and Lubricants

19:00 Addressing Libido and Intimacy Challenges

20:38 Navigating Intimacy After Cancer

25:22 Understanding Treatment Options

30:45 Building a Support Network

36:06 Empowerment and Advocacy in Healthcare

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Today’s episode is going to challenge how you think about treatment. What if cancer care wasn’t one-size-fits-all? What if every decision — from the drugs you take to the supplements you choose — was tailored to your own biology?

My guest, Dr. John Oertle, Chief Medical Director at Envita Medical Centers, has spent over 25 years pioneering a truly personalized, integrative approach that merges precision oncology, functional medicine, and technology.

We’ll explore why some people respond to treatment while others don’t, what circulating tumor DNA can tell us about recurrence, and how understanding environmental toxins and genetics can literally change your odds.

💡 Key Take-Aways

• Cancer isn’t one disease. Even tumors within the same breast can have different genetic make-ups.
• CTDNA and circulating tumor cells can reveal recurrence risk years before imaging shows a problem.
• 90% of patients Dr. Oertle sees are resistant to at least one of their prescribed chemotherapies — proving the need for personalized testing.
• AI and deep learning help doctors tailor therapies in real time, shifting from “trial-and-error” to “test-and-treat.”
• Off-label and combination therapies can target molecular pathways missed by standard regimens.
• Environmental toxins and infections (like pesticides or Lyme disease) may play a major role in cancer initiation and progression.
• Integrative care matters. Diet, metabolism, and detoxification affect how the body responds to treatment.
• Early detection + data = empowerment. Patients should feel informed, not fearful, when asking about advanced testing.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
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What if your cancer treatment was designed just for you?

In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Dr. Laura Carfang sits down with Jim Foote, CEO and co-founder of First Ascent Biomedical, to explore how AI-powered functional precision medicine is transforming cancer care.

Instead of relying on one-size-fits-all treatment plans, this breakthrough approach tests your actual tumor cells against hundreds of FDA-approved drugs—revealing which therapies truly work for you and which don’t.

🧬 You’ll learn:

• How functional precision medicine differs from genetic testing
• Why AI and lab automation are revolutionizing oncology
• Real-life patient stories of hope and survival
• How this technology cuts costs and reduces toxicity
• Why personalization could become the new standard of care

🎧 Tune in to hear how technology, compassion, and science are coming together to rewrite the future of cancer treatment.

👉 Watch. Learn. Share. Because the future of oncology is personal.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• SurvivingBreastCancer.org
  
  
• First Ascent Biomedical
  
  
• Follow us on Instagram: @SurvivingBreastCancerOrg
  
  
• Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

💬 Join the conversation:
What are your thoughts on personalized medicine? Leave a comment below and tell us how AI could change your cancer journey.

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In this inspiring episode, host Laura Carfang, Ed.D. sits down with Tara Hoffmann of Recovery on Water and Miranda Baldwin, co-producer of Breast in Show. Together they explore life eight years after breast cancer — from navigating long-term side effects and hormonal therapy to finding joy, movement, and connection through rowing and burlesque.

This is not just survivorship — it’s strength, sisterhood, and self-expression.

In This Episode:

• The power of exercise and rowing as tools for healing after treatment
• Navigating hormonal therapies, side effects, and quality of life decisions
• Endometriosis after breast cancer treatment — what survivors should know
• Creating empowering spaces through movement and art
• Building connection and confidence through community-led initiatives like ROW and Breast in Show
• The upcoming Head of the Charles Regatta featuring the Recovery on Water team
• How Breast in Show blends humor, art, and advocacy to raise funds for survivors

Links Mentioned:

• Recovery on Water
  https://recoveryonwater.org/
• Breast in Show Tickets (Eventbrite)
  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breast-in-show-7-killer-breasts-from-outer-space-tickets-1670455781209?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Evan Garfein, Chief of Plastic Surgery at Montefiore Medical Center, Professor of Surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and Co-Founder of Greenwich Street Aesthetics. With more than 60 peer-reviewed publications, three biomedical patents, and a leadership role in shaping New York State’s groundbreaking breast reconstruction equity law, Dr. Garfein brings unmatched insight into the intersection of medicine, policy, and patient empowerment.

Together, Laura and Dr. Garfein unpack:

• How breast reconstruction has evolved—and where the field is headed
• What patients need to know about their rights, options, and insurance coverage
• The real-world impact of legislation that expands access and equity in reconstructive care
• The latest innovations in surgical techniques and materials that are reshaping outcomes
• The emotional and psychological dimensions of reconstruction and recovery

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or clinician, this conversation offers valuable guidance on making informed decisions and navigating the post-mastectomy journey with confidence.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
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Listener Feedback

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Six years ago, Veronica shared her powerful story about preparing for surgery—a conversation that quickly became one of the most-downloaded episodes in SBC history. Today, she returns to reflect on her journey, her many surgeries, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• The early days of diagnosis: how a mobile mammogram outside her job led to a life-changing discovery.
• The ups and downs: from a cold doctor delivering the news without compassion to the challenges of medical transport gone wrong.
• Surgical decisions: why she chose a single mastectomy, her experience with implants, and ultimately her deep flap reconstruction.
• The realities of reconstruction: expanders, drains, scars, revisions, and what no one tells you about the process.
• The emotional toll: navigating fear, shame, and the weight of making decisions as a single woman with limited support.
• Wisdom gained: why asking the right questions, putting yourself first, and letting go of blame are critical parts of survivorship.

Welcome to the conversation. 

Veronica's first podcast,  Mastectomy Recovery Tips:https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/podcast/episode/c112012f/60-mastectomy-recovery-tips-what-i-wish-i-had-known-or-interview-with-veronica

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
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Latest News: 

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In this conversation, Laura Carfang interviews JP Parthasarathy, the founder and CEO of Astran Biosciences, about the critical topic of breast cancer, particularly focusing on breast density and its implications for women's health. They discuss the importance of understanding breast density, the advancements in early cancer detection technologies, and the ongoing clinical trials aimed at improving screening methods. JP shares insights into the science behind cancer progression, the risk factors associated with breast density, and the potential for blood tests to revolutionize cancer screening. The conversation emphasizes the need for personalized medicine and the importance of empowering patients with knowledge about their health risks.

What you will learn: 

• Breast density is a significant risk factor for breast cancer.
• Many women are unaware of their breast density and its implications.
• Early detection of cancer cells is crucial for effective treatment.
• Current mammogram technologies may not effectively detect cancers in dense breasts.
• Personalized screening programs can improve outcomes for high-risk individuals.
• The science of cancer progression is evolving, revealing new insights.
• Blood tests may provide a less invasive method for early cancer detection.
• Advocacy and awareness are key in improving women's health outcomes.
• Understanding individual risk factors can lead to better screening strategies.
• The future of cancer detection lies in integrating advanced technologies and personalized medicine.

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events
Subscribe to our weekly newsletter
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Follow us on Instagram
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Tell Cancer To Take A Hike this October! 

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In this special episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang speaks with Dr. Troso  about the evolving role of DNA testing in breast cancer care. Together, they break down the three main types of testing:

• Hereditary genetic testing: Identifying inherited mutations such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 (among others) that increase cancer risk and influence prevention and treatment decisions.
• Somatic (tumor) testing: Analyzing mutations within the tumor itself—such as PIK3CA or ESR1 mutations—to guide targeted therapies and manage resistance in advanced disease.
• Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing: Also known as a liquid biopsy, this emerging tool uses blood tests to detect cancer DNA fragments. It holds promise for monitoring recurrence, guiding treatment earlier, and advancing clinical trials.

Tune into this Special! 

🎙️ What You Will Learn in This Episode

• The three main types of DNA testing for breast cancer:
  • Hereditary genetic testing (inherited risk, BRCA1/2, PALB2, and full gene panels)
  • Somatic/tumor testing (mutations that develop in the tumor, such as ESR1, PIK3CA, AKT, PTEN)
  • ctDNA testing (liquid biopsies that detect tumor DNA fragments in the blood)
• Why genetic testing today goes beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2 and should include full panel testing
• How somatic mutations can develop over time and drive treatment resistance — and the targeted therapies available to address them
• The potential of ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) testing in monitoring recurrence, guiding treatment, and detecting cancer earlier than imaging
• Insights from recent clinical trials (such as the ZEST trial with PARP inhibitors) and why research is essential before ctDNA becomes standard of care
• How DNA testing influences treatment decisions, from surgery planning to advanced therapy options
• The emotional side of survivorship: managing fear of recurrence and focusing on lifestyle choices within your control (nutrition, exercise, sleep, mindset)

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

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Support our Podcast, every dollar counts! 

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About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Tell Cancer To Take A Hike this October! 

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In this episode of Breast Cancer Conversations, host Laura Carfang sits down with Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt, Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at Duke University and founder of the popular Instagram community @surgical_recovery. Together, they explore the groundbreaking concept of prehabilitation (“prehab”) before breast cancer surgery—a holistic approach that empowers patients to prepare their body, mind, and spirit for better surgical outcomes.

Dr. Knackstedt shares evidence-based strategies for optimizing nutrition, exercise, sleep, and emotional well-being before surgery, while also offering practical advice on supplements, inflammation, and lymphedema prevention. This candid conversation goes beyond the operating room, reminding us that healing starts before surgery day—and that small, intentional steps can make a big difference in recovery and quality of life.

🎧 What You Will Learn

• The definition of prehabilitation and why it’s a game-changer for breast cancer patients
• Simple, actionable steps to prepare your body for surgery—even if you only start with one change
• The critical importance of protein and muscle strength in recovery
• Which supplements are safe and helpful, and which should be avoided before surgery
• How sleep, stress management, and emotional support directly influence healing
• Practical exercise recommendations tailored to your surgery type
• How to confidently advocate for yourself and ask the right questions of your care team

SURVIVINGBREASTCANCER.ORG

Attend a free virtual SurvivingBreastCancer.org program (support groups, yoga, medication, expressive writing, art expression, and more!):
https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/events

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter

https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/subscribe

Follow us on Instagram
SurvivingBreastCancer.org: https://www.survivingbreastcancer.org/
Breast Cancer Conversations: https://www.instagram.com/breastcancerconversations/

Support our Podcast, every dollar counts! 

https://givebutter.com/0fCiEU

About SurvivingBreastCancer.org: SurvivingBreastCancer.org, Inc. (SBC) is a federally recognized 501(c)(3) non-profit virtual platform headquartered in Boston with a national and global reach. Through education, community, and resources, SurvivingBreastCancer.org supports women and men going through breast cancer. We provide a sanctuary of strength, compassion, and empowerment, where those diagnosed with cancer unite to share their stories, learn invaluable coping strategies to manage wellness and mental health, and find solace in the unbreakable bond that fuels hope, resilience, and the courage to conquer adversity.

Tell Cancer To Take A Hike this October! 

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Listener Feedback

Please share a review with us! If this episode resonated with you, we invite you to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share some stars! 

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Messages are completely anonymous.

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Latest News: 

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