The future of cancer care is happening right now through clinical research, and patients in Hampton Roads have front-row access to these groundbreaking treatments at Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA).
 
Wendi Gobhardt, Director of Research Operations, and Chris Morris, Clinical Research Manager, reveal how clinical trials work and why they matter. With backgrounds deeply rooted in cancer care, Wendi, an oncology nurse, and Chris motivated by personal loss to breast cancer, bring both professional expertise and heartfelt commitment to advancing cancer treatments.
 
The conversation breaks the clinical trial process, explaining how treatments progress through phases from initial safety testing to becoming standard of care. Contrary to the "guinea pig" misconception, patients in trials often receive more attentive monitoring and what VOA calls "concierge service" throughout their treatment journey. With 64 active trials covering breast cancer, blood cancers, prostate cancer, and more, VOA offers local access to treatments that previously required travel to distant medical centers.
 
Most exciting are the advancements these trials enable, personalized medicine targeting specific molecular characteristics of tumors, innovative radiopharmaceuticals delivering radiation through IV administration rather than external beams, and cellular therapies like CAR-T are transforming outcomes for patients who previously had limited options.
 
For those considering participation, the experts offer practical advice: thoroughly review consent documents, ask lots of questions, bring family to appointments as "extra ears," and understand all available options. Every patient who participates not only potentially benefits themselves but contributes valuable data that helps future generations. 

Resources

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ 

https://www.nih.gov/health-information/nih-clinical-research-trials-you 

https://www.virginiacancer.com/clinical-trials 

https://www.scri.com/ 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

One of the most powerful tools in cancer prevention is sitting right in front of us, yet many of us delay using it. Dr. Edwin Lee, gastroenterologist with Capital Digestive Care, joins us to demystify colon cancer screening and explain why catching this disease early changes everything. 
 
Dr. Lee takes us through the critical importance of colon cancer screening and the significant guideline change that now recommends starting at age 45 instead of 50. This adjustment wasn't arbitrary – it's already saving lives by catching dangerous polyps in younger patients before they develop into cancer.  
The conversation demystifies the screening process, comparing stool-based testing options with colonoscopy, which Dr. Lee describes as a "two-in-one" procedure that both detects and removes potential threats. He walks us through what happens during a colonoscopy, how doctors measure their effectiveness through adenoma detection rates, and why family history might mean you need screening much earlier than you think.  
 
For those hesitant about screening, Dr. Lee offers reassurance that modern procedures are much more comfortable than in the past. With improved preparation solutions and effective anesthesia, there's no reason to postpone this potentially life-saving test. Whether you're approaching 45, have a family history of colon cancer, or simply want to be proactive about your health, this episode provides the information you need to take that crucial step. Don't let fear or inconvenience stand in the way of this life-saving screening - schedule your appointment today. 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• American College of Gastroenterology https://gi.org/patients/ 
• Capital Digestive Care (colon cancer prevention) https://www.capitaldigestivecare.com/colon-cancer-prevention/ 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Dr. Yue Zhang breaks down the complex world of GI malignancies, explaining how colorectal, pancreatic, liver, esophageal, and stomach cancers each present unique challenges. She explains why these cancers are often detected too late—when treatment options become limited—and how proper screening can dramatically change outcomes. 
 
While screening guidelines continue evolving, Dr. Zhang emphasizes that personalized risk assessment should guide decisions about when and how to screen. First-degree relatives with GI cancers, certain genetic mutations, chronic conditions like cirrhosis or acid reflux, and lifestyle factors all influence individual risk profiles. For many, a combination of regular physical exams, appropriate screening tests, and attention to warning signs like unexplained weight loss or chronic digestive issues can make the difference between early intervention and limited treatment options. 
 
Despite these challenges, Dr. Zhang remains hopeful about the future of cancer care: "Throughout the years, our cancer care has advanced dramatically. I see my patients living longer lives. I have more tools, more medications, more clinical trials." She concludes with powerful prevention advice: maintain a healthy weight, eat fresh foods, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and perhaps most importantly—prioritize your health. 

 Dr. Yue Zhang earned her medical degree from Peking Union Medical College and gained her Master of Public Health in both epidemiology and biostatistics from Boston University School of Public Health. She completed her internal medicine residency at the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Medical Center in New York, and Hematology/Oncology fellowship at Yale-New Haven Hospital in Connecticut. She became an assistant professor of medicine afterwards and worked at the academic center at Stony Brook University Hospital (SBUH) in New York. During her time with SBUH, Dr. Zhang gained expertise in gastrointestinal cancer care and treatments for genitourinary cancer patients. She was the principal investigator for multiple clinical trials, published numerous papers in peer-reviewed journals, and was invited to speak at many professional conferences, editorial boards, and advisory boards. She is highly respected by her peers for continuously providing education to medical students, residents, and fellows, and has received many awards for her excellent patient care. 

Dr. Zhang was recruited by the physician team at Virginia Oncology Associates due in part to her cutting-edge knowledge and expertise in treating pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, liver cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and other cancer types. 

Dr. Zhang believes in personalized medicine and is passionate about curing cancer. A good quality of life for cancer patients and their individual needs are her highest priorities. 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

What if understanding your genetic makeup could transform your approach to health care? Genetic testing is revolutionizing how we approach hereditary cancer risks, offering hope for prevention and personalized care. Dr. Ranjit Goudar shares insights on the Hereditary Cancer Clinic at Virginia Oncology Associates, emphasizing individualized approaches and the importance of genetic counseling for informed decision-making.

Dr. Goudar's work influences the lives of numerous families, underlining the importance of personalized care with inspiring stories, like that of two sisters who share a BRCA2 mutation but chose different paths for prevention.

Inspired by our personal experiences and driven by a mission to aid patients, we offer guidance and resources to ensure that everyone can make informed decisions about their health. The Virginia Oncology Associates website provides additional support.

Ranjit K. Goudar, MD is a Virginia Beach native and son of a physician. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of Virginia, where he was a Jefferson Scholar. He earned his medical degree and completed his residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hematology/oncology at Duke University. He is a graduate of the City of Hope Intensive Course in Cancer Risk Assessment. Dr. Goudar is board-certified in Medical Oncology and Hematology.

 While caring for patients with a broad range of cancers and blood disorders, Dr. Goudar’s particular clinical interests include the care of patients with breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and patients at high risk of cancer due to family history or cancer gene mutations. He serves as the director of the Hereditary Cancer Clinic at the Brock Cancer Center in Norfolk.

Dr. Goudar is the Division Chief of Hematology and Oncology at Eastern Virginia Medical School, where he supervises the training of internal medicine residents. He is the author of several research publications and book chapters.

Resources Mention in this Podcast: 

• Podcast episode (aired 9/6/2023): The Important Role Genetic Counselors Play in Genetic Testing with Tifany Lewis

Other Resources to consider:

• Podcast episode (aired 9/27/2023): Understanding the Genetics of Breast Cancer with Dr. Sonia Hepburn

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Join us as we welcome Gina Bright, an infusion nurse and remarkable author. She offers a heartfelt narrative about her early encounters with AIDS patients amid the fear and stigma of the 1980s and shines a light on the compassion and resilience required in nursing. Her unique blend of caregiving and literary talent offers an enlightening perspective on the vital role nurses play in the healthcare system. Her novel, The Charon Club, draws from personal experiences to depict the multifaceted roles of nurses, who navigate not only medical challenges but also the profound personal journeys of their patients. 

Gina M. Bright, RN, PhD, OCN, has worked as a registered nurse in the fields of oncology and AIDS for several decades. Gina’s first novel, The Charon Club, was released in 2023 and was an NIEA Finalist for General Fiction in 2024. She wrote a non-fiction book, Plague-Making and the AIDS Epidemic: A Story of Discrimination (Palgrave Macmillan, 2012) years after working on an AIDS unit in NYC. Several of her short stories have been published and one of them has been included in the recently released anthology, Across the Moors and Tides: A Historical Fiction Anthology of the United Kingdom and its Territories (2024). Gina has a doctorate in medieval English literature works as an oncology nurse at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jacob Hall, a radiation oncologist at Virginia Oncology Associates (VOA). Dr. Hall is on a mission to bring the technological advances of oncology into the realm of osteoarthritis management to VOA, offering an alternative that provides lasting pain relief without the invasiveness of surgery. Discover how six sessions of low-dose radiation treatment are not only transforming patients' experiences but also enhancing their quality of life by reducing pain.

In this episode, we discuss the process of using radiation therapy across various joints, such as knees, hips, and shoulders, and highlight the profound impact this treatment can have. We also emphasize the importance of personalized care, encouraging you to start your journey with a primary care doctor and explore further resources on Virginia Oncology Associates' website. If you're seeking new avenues for managing osteoarthritis, this episode promises to expand your understanding and inspire hope for those living with joint pain.

Dr. Jacob Hall completed his radiation oncology residency at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and received his Doctor of Medicine from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine.    

Dr. Hall's clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of advanced radiation techniques, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), brachytherapy, stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). He has a special interest in head and neck and central nervous system tumors but is experienced in treating a broad spectrum of cancer diagnoses. 

In addition to his clinical skills, Dr. Hall is a productive researcher with peer-reviewed publications focusing on reducing radiation toxicity and improving quality of life. His research interests include integrating advanced radiation techniques with systemic therapies and enhancing cancer care outcomes through innovative treatment approaches. He is also interested in the treatment of benign diseases with radiation, particularly osteoarthritis (OA). He served as the principal investigator for a study investigating OA during his time at the University of North Carolina. He also served on the University of North Carolina Radiation Oncology Research Advisory Committee. His research has been presented at national and international conferences, including the American Society for Radiation Oncology Annual Meeting, the American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium, and the American Head and Neck Society International Conference on Head and Neck Cancer. 

Recognized for his contributions to the field and academic excellence, Dr. Hall was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society during medical school. He holds memberships in professional organizations such as the American Society for Radiation Oncology and the American Medical Association. 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Experience the advances in cancer treatment with Dr. Michael Miller from Virginia Oncology Associates as he shares his inspiring journey into the field of medicine, rooted in the influence of his sister’s nursing career. Discover the game-changing technologies revolutionizing radiation oncology, such as the TrueBeam Varian Linear Accelerator. Dr. Miller provides an in-depth look at how these advancements are enhancing precision and improving patient outcomes, laying the groundwork for a new era in cancer care.

Explore the transformative strides in stereotactic radiation therapy, moving beyond traditional gamma knife treatments to cutting-edge techniques that prioritize patient comfort and accuracy. Learn how sophisticated machines like the Varian TrueBeam are revolutionizing lung tumor treatments using gating techniques that synchronize radiation delivery with patient breathing. This segment underscores the versatility and significance of stereotactic radiation therapy in modern medical practice, expanding its applications far beyond brain treatments.

Lastly, dive into the captivating realm of radiopharmaceuticals and brachytherapy. Dr. Miller discusses the evolution of treatments like Radium-223 and Lutetium-177 for prostate cancer and their potential to target other cancers. Get insights on HDR brachytherapy, which delivers high-dose radiation directly to tumors with minimal patient discomfort, particularly for skin cancer. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming episode with Dr. Jacob Hall, who will explore the use of radiation therapy beyond cancer, including its applications for osteoarthritis. Join us on this enlightening journey through the forefront of radiation oncology!

Dr. Michael Miller graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a B.S. in Pharmacy. He received his doctorate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine where he was valedictorian and a member of the Sigma Alpha Omicron Honor Society. He completed a surgical internship at the Doctor's Hospital/Ohio Health. 

His residency was completed at Eastern Virginia Medical School where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Miller was awarded the 2005 American Brachytherapy Society Prostate Fellowship Award at the Seattle Prostate Institute. Dr. Miller is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology as a specialist in Radiation Oncology. 

Dr. Miller resides in Virginia Beach with his wife and sons and enjoys outdoor sports and other fitness activities. 

Resources mentioned in this podcast 

National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/ 

American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/ 

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN): https://www.nccn.org/ 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

Ever wondered how simple lifestyle changes can drastically reduce your cancer risk? On this episode of Cancer Care Connections, Cheryl sits down with Dr. Ligeng Tian from Virginia Oncology Associates to uncover the powerful role of healthy habits in cancer prevention. Dr. Tian shares practical advice on embracing a plant-based diet, incorporating whole grains, and steering clear of processed and red meats to lower cancer risk. We explore the benefits of high fiber intake, the importance of a colorful plate filled with fruits and vegetables, and the surprising power of foods in reducing cancer risk. Additionally, the conversation touches on how maintaining a healthy weight and tackling obesity can be key factors in reducing your cancer risk.

Dr. Tian explains the complex relationship between supplements, medications, and cancer prevention. We explore why no supplement should be taken for cancer prevention unless there's a genuine nutritional deficiency and examine the nuanced roles of Vitamin D, calcium, aspirin, NSAIDs, and Metformin. Understand the potential risks and benefits and discover the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before self-prescribing. 
 
Gain practical health tips for cancer prevention, from avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol to seeking trustworthy medical advice. We encourage you to prioritize your health with actionable steps. 

 Finally, get a sneak peek into our next episode where Dr. Michael Miller will delve into the latest innovations in radiation oncology. This episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice you won't want to miss!

Dr. Tian is board-certified in Internal Medicine. She received her medical degree from Beijing Medical University, China, and her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology & Genetics from Weill Graduate School of Cornell University, New York. Tian completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, and her Medical Oncology/Hematology Fellowship at Yale Medical School, Connecticut. 

During her time at Yale, Dr. Tian participated in several clinical research studies. Her studies showed that bone marrow findings correlate poorly with the disease activity in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). She also participated in phase I clinical trials in hematologic malignancies, as well as teaching at Yale Medical School. She is the author of numerous publications, abstracts, and book chapters on topics in Hematology and Oncology. 

Dr. Tian is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Tian's particular clinical interests include providing personalized cancer care to patients with lung cancer and hematology. 

In her free time, Dr. Tian enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking. 

Resources mentioned in this podcast 

The American Cancer Society Prevention and Early Detection:

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

How can young women facing breast cancer preserve their dreams of motherhood? Discover the essential insights from Dr. Nina Balanchivadze of Virginia Oncology Associates as she shares her profound expertise in oncofertility and the critical importance of preserving ovarian function amidst cancer treatments. Dr. B delves into the rising trend of younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer and the unique challenges they encounter regarding fertility preservation. She offers a heartfelt discussion on the compassionate care needed to guide patients through their treatment and survivorship journey, ensuring their reproductive health remains a priority.
 
Uncover the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment with Dr. B, highlighting the move towards more personalized therapies. These innovations boost survival rates and minimize side effects, allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life. Dr. B's insights ensure that while cancer may change lives, it doesn't define them, empowering women to continue thriving in their roles as mothers, partners, and professionals. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten and inspire, offering hope and practical advice for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer.
 
Dr. Nina Balanchivadze is passionate about caring for patients with cancer and providing personalized, state-of-the-art, compassionate care to all her patients. She specializes in the treatment of patients with a breast cancer diagnosis.    

Dr. B has extensive experience in leadership and education, having gained experience in her role as core clinical faculty/Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at Grand Strand Medical Center, Myrtle Beach, SC, where she served as the Chief of Medicine for the 369-bed acute care hospital.     

During her residency and fellowship, she presented her research work at numerous national and international conferences and has published many abstracts and manuscripts. She was recognized multiple times and has been presented with many Resident of the Year awards, and Teaching Attending Physician and Mentor of the Year awards. She was named Fellow of the Year at Henry Ford Cancer Institute and has won the Robert A. Chapman Outstanding Fellow Award two years in a row. Her research activities have been recognized many times with one of her projects securing first place in a hospital-wide resident/fellow research competition at the Henry Ford Medical Education Forum. In addition, Dr. Balanchivadze was granted multiple travel awards to present at national conferences.   

On a national level, Dr. Balanchivadze served on the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Trainee Council, has been an active member of multiple committees, and has facilitated many different educational sessions. She is a Fellow of the American College of Medicine (ACP) and is an active member of ACP, American Medical Association, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and ASH. 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

During this episode, we sat down with Dr. Devin Miller, a gynecologic oncologist with Virginia Oncology Associates. Our conversation was not only informative but also a call to action for women to become advocates for their health. Dr. Miller's dedication to her field is obvious as she discusses the complexities of fighting cancers unique to the female reproductive system and shares breakthroughs in treatment that are changing lives.

Learn why something as simple as quitting smoking or maintaining a healthy lifestyle can drastically reduce your cancer risks, and why your family history could be the key to unlocking your best defensive strategy. Dr. Miller's compassionate approach emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and the necessity of having a robust support system when facing a cancer diagnosis.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that not only sheds light on the advancements in gynecological oncology but also equips you with the knowledge to take control of your health journey.

Dr. Devin Miller is a native of Virginia Beach. She attended the College of William and Mary, earning a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Sciences. She received her medical degree at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She proceeded to clinical training at Yale New Haven Hospital for obstetrics and gynecology residency, where she served as chief resident. Dr. Miller completed her fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY, where she was recognized as an outstanding educator for resident physicians and medical students. While in fellowship, she received grant funding for her research from the Foundation for Women’s Cancer.  

Dr. Miller treats patients with all forms of female cancers, including those of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vulva, vagina, and cervix, as well as complex benign gynecologic conditions. As part of a multidisciplinary team, she works closely with pathologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, and other physician specialists. This collaboration gives each patient a treatment plan tailored to their unique diagnosis and goals. As a gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Miller is trained in advanced surgical techniques, specializing in minimally invasive and robotic procedures that promote faster recovery and less hospitalization. 

Resources mentioned in this podcast
Foundation for Women’s Cancer: https://foundationforwomenscancer.org/ 

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.