Cancer Questions

Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains the link between food additives and cancer risk. Certain additives, such as nitrates and nitrites found in processed meats like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, have been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Christina highlights how reducing ultra-processed foods and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help lower cancer risk.

Discover more about integrative therapies and healthy living at Dana-Farber: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies

Ann LaCasce, MD, oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains what to do if you discover a lump or enlarged lymph node on your body. Learn why consulting a medical professional is crucial for identifying potential causes, such as infections or other conditions, and determining whether further steps like imaging or a biopsy are needed.

Want to learn more about early detection and cancer care? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/

What are the risk factors for lung cancer?

In this episode of Cancer Questions with Dana-Farber, David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, discusses lung cancer risk factors and highlights why quitting smoking is so important.

Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer

Why is genetic counseling an important part of genetic testing?  

Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes genetic counselors' vital role in helping patients comprehend the risks of genetic mutations, interpreting results, and more.  

Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/cancer-prevention-risk 

Does vaping increase your risk of cancer? 

David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the historical patterns seen with cigarette smoking and lung cancer and explains why similar patterns might emerge with vaping. 

While it's too early to say definitively, due to the typical 30-year lag between behavioral changes and observed cancer rates, concerns are certainly rising due to potential carcinogens present in vape smoke. 

Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer 

How do you reduce your cancer risk if you've had a history of sunburns? 

Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes the importance of paying attention to changes in the skin and using sun protection. 

Want to learn more about skin cancer risk, screening and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cutaneous-skin-cancer 

Are there any screening options for gynecologic cancers?  

Susanne Menon, a nurse practitioner at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights various screening methods for gynecological cancers.  

Want to learn more about gynecologic cancer screening, risk and prevention of gynecologic cancers? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/gynecologic-oncology 

Does eating a plant-based diet reduce cancer risk?  

 Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights how integrating plant-based foods into your diet may reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. She shares helpful tips for maintaining a well-balanced diet.  

Want to learn more about integrative therapies and healthy living? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integrative-therapies  

Does marijuana increase cancer risk? 

David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, talks about the latest available data. 

Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer 

Do cancers always have a genetic component? 

Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains how 15% of cancers are linked to inherited mutations. These mutations frequently affect tumor suppressor genes, increasing the risk of cancer development in individuals born with such mutations.  

Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/cancer-prevention-risk