In today's episode, I explore the question: Why does breast cancer come back after treatment?

I discuss the mechanisms that can lead to cancer recurrence, offering insights into microscopic spread, lymph node involvement, resilient cells, dormant cancer cells, incomplete treatment, and genetic mutations.

Join me in this solo episode where I uncover the reasons behind breast cancer recurrence and learn about the possible treatment options for those who experience a recurrence.

You can connect with me on Instagram and let me know your thoughts. Also, if you have any particular topics you want to discuss with me, then let me know too.

I hope you find this episode useful.

Tasha

In this episode of "My Breast, My Health," I delve into the lesser-known but crucial topic of inflammatory breast cancer.

I explore the challenging diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and prognosis of this aggressive type of breast cancer.

I discuss the unique presentation of inflammatory breast cancer, the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms, and the evolving treatment options.

Join us as we uncover essential insights about this rare form of breast cancer and shed light on valuable information for both patients and caregivers.

DM me on Instagram and let me know your thoughts.

Thank you for listening.

Tasha 

Hi friend,

Today, we delve into the world of radiotherapy and explore its potential side effects. 

The majority of people tolerate radiotherapy well. However, like with most clinical treatments, there can be potential side effects.

Short-term side effects of radiotherapy may include skin reactions, fatigue, and breast changes. 

Whilst long term side effects can range from changes in breast appearance, lymphoedema, and nerve damage, to rare risks such as angiosarcoma.

In this episode, I cover all things related to this type of treatment.

Radiotherapy can have its challenges, but modern techniques have minimised many of these issues. Remember, communication with your healthcare team is key.

Hope you enjoy the episode.

PS, if you want to learn more about how exercise can be beneficial in combating fatigue around breast cancer treatment, then I recommend you listen to this episode with Sarah Newman.

Tasha x

Welcome to a solo episode of "My Breast My Health," where your host, Tasha Gandamihardja, delves into the cutting-edge realm of cancer detection using a blood test.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr Tasha sheds light on the groundbreaking potential of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in transforming the landscape of cancer detection and monitoring.

Discover the advantages of ctDNA, its promising role in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, and its ability to guide personalised treatment decisions.

Join us as Dr Tasha uncovers how ctDNA testing could revolutionise early-stage cancer detection, monitor treatment response, and even play a pivotal role in guiding personalised treatment decisions.

I hope you enjoy this episode.

You can connect with Dr Tasha on Instagram and let her know what you thought about the episode.

xx

Welcome back to "My Breast My Health," where we shed light on important topics related to breast health. In today's solo episode, we're delving into the world of DCIS, also known as ductal carcinoma in situ. We'll be tackling what it is, how it presents, the treatment options available, and the prognosis associated with it.

DCIS is a non-invasive form of breast cancer, confined to the milk ducts and not spreading into the surrounding breast tissue. It often goes undetected without presenting symptoms and is usually identified through breast screening, such as mammograms. However, it can manifest through calcifications on mammograms, nipple discharge, or as a less common breast lump.

As we navigate through this episode, we'll explore the diagnostic process, surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and the reasons behind treating a non-invasive condition. We'll also dive into the risk of recurrence following treatment and the crucial role of regular follow-up and maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-treatment.

So if you've ever wondered about DCIS and its implications, stick around as we unpack its complexities and implications. And don't forget, you can always reach out to me on Instagram @DrTashaG with any questions or feedback. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!

In this episode, I have a conversation with Dr. D Dizon, an oncologist who will be shedding light on an important topic that many breast cancer patients are apprehensive about – chemotherapy.

Dr. Dizon is a professor of medicine and surgery at the prestigious Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. With a clinical focus on pelvic cancers, including those of the ovary, uterus, and cervix, Dr. Dizon also provides care for individuals with breast cancer and soft tissue sarcoma. Beyond his clinical practice, he has developed a special interest in survivorship, particularly in the area of sexuality after cancer, recognizing the unique challenges and needs of cancer survivors in their post-treatment journey.

Dr. Dizon will delve into what chemotherapy is, how it works, and its role in treating different subtypes of breast cancer. We will learn about the advancements and new treatment options available, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, that provide more personalized approaches for patients.

We'll also be exploring the concept of survivorship and how it extends beyond just being cancer-free. Dr. Dizon will discuss the importance of addressing aspects like healthy lifestyles, sexuality, and nutrition for individuals with metastatic breast cancer through the Oncology Wellness Lifestyles and Survivorship Program offered at Brown University.

Embracing the power of social media as a platform for education and advocacy, Dr. Dizon has made a significant impact by actively engaging with diverse audiences on various platforms, including Twitter and TikTok. Through these channels, he seeks to raise awareness, offer support, and share valuable insights to promote a greater understanding of cancer survivorship and the importance of addressing the holistic needs of individuals impacted by cancer.

Join us as we unravel the truths and misconceptions about chemotherapy, learn about the latest developments in breast cancer treatment, and understand the significance of survivorship.

Connect with Dr D Dizon on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

You can access CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians here.

Connect with Dr Tasha on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

I hope you enjoy the episode.

Tasha

Welcome to the My Breast, My Health podcast. In this episode, our host and breast surgeon, Tasha Gandamihardja, dives into the different types of breast cancers. 

Tasha discusses the common types encountered in clinical practice, including invasive ductal carcinomas, invasive lobular carcinomas, triple-negative breast cancers, inflammatory breast cancers, and DCIS. 

She provides insights into the origins of these cancers, their presentation, and the potential treatment approaches. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these prevalent breast cancer types and their implications for health and treatment.

You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG.

You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG

Thank you for listening.

In this episode of "My Breast My Health," host Tasha Gandamihardja, a breast cancer surgeon, delves into the topic of "Embracing Emotional Resilience" in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis. 

She outlines four strategies designed to help cope with the mental and physical impact of a breast cancer diagnosis, offering actionable steps and a bonus strategy. Tasha emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional landscape, cultivating coping mechanisms, building a support system, and prioritizing self-care. 

She also highlights the value of finding strength in information and encourages listeners to connect with her on social media to share their thoughts. 

Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the emotional journey of a breast cancer diagnosis.

You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG.

You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG

Thank you for listening.

Welcome to "My Breast My Health," the podcast where we discuss everything related to breast health and breast cancer. In this episode, our host Tasha delves into the important topic of breast cancer recurrence. 

Tasha covers the areas where cancer can recur and explains the significance of early detection. She provides valuable insights on self-examinations, signs to look out for, and the role of scans in detecting recurrences. Tasha also highlights the red flag symptoms of distant recurrence and the importance of seeking medical attention if any of these symptoms are experienced. 

Stay tuned for an informative and insightful discussion on this crucial aspect of breast cancer care.

You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG.

You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG

Thank you for listening.