What is radiation therapy and is it safe?

In this special Black History Month episode, Dr. Todd Adams joins Dr. Rob Winn and Community Clovia to bridge the gap between historical medical distrust in clinical trials and the life-saving "good news" of modern radiation oncology. Dr. Adams breaks down how radiation therapy has evolved from a blunt tool into a precise, targeted treatment, and why understanding your options is the first step toward resilience.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this powerful closing episode of our special collaborative series between The Cancer Letter and Real Cancer Talk celebrating Black History Month, we sit down with Dr. Joni Nelson, the Assistant Director for the Office of Workforce Development at the MUSC Hollings Cancer Center. Reflecting on a month of honoring history and looking toward the future, Dr. Nelson shares her expertise on the critical intersection of education, workforce representation, and community outreach. We dive into her role in shaping the SC CADRE initiative and how MUSC is leading the way in training a more inclusive generation of oncology professionals to better serve all patient populations.

More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education. Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

What does it take to become a "superhero" in the field of cancer research? In a collaboration with The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn interviews a true pioneer, Dr. Malcolm Brock.

In this episode, Dr. Brock opens up about the "forks in the road" that defined his career. He discusses the influence of early mentors, his time as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford, and his fascinating detour into Japanese biotechnology research, where he even authored a book in Japanese. Dr. Brock explains how he balances the rigors of thoracic surgery with a passion for ensuring cutting-edge research is accessible for everyone. He emphasized that "it's not about getting a seat at the table because of your race... it's because you are excellent in what you do."

Key highlights include:

• Dr. Brock’s transition from Japanese studies to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
• The role of "love" and human connection in modern oncology.
• Insights into developing molecular biomarkers for earlier cancer diagnosis.
• A celebration of Black excellence in the history of medicine.

More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

"I didn't come here to just be another doctor. I came here to ask the questions that nobody else was asking, because if we don't look at the genetics of everyone, we aren't practicing medicine; we’re just practicing a subset of it."

In this powerful episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with a true giant in the field of oncology: Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade.

As the Director of the Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics and Global Health at the University of Chicago and a 2025 MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient, Dr. Olopade has dedicated her career to unraveling the complexities of breast cancer and championing health equity on a global scale.

In this conversation, we explore:

• The "Genius" Journey: Dr. Olopade’s reflections on being in the top 1% of the 1% and how her background shaped her mission.
• Advancing the Field: How her work in clinical genetics is changing the way we understand and treat cancer for diverse populations.
• The Mission of Equity: Why global health and local impact must go hand-in-hand to improve outcomes for all patients.

Join us for an intimate look at the life and legacy of a researcher whose work continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care.

More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

“The idea that I would not go to college was just not acceptable.”

In this episode of The Cancer Letter, Dr. Robert Winn sits down with the legendary Dr. Otis Brawley, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins and former Chief Medical Officer of the American Cancer Society. Dr. Brawley shares a deeply personal look into his upbringing in Detroit, discussing how his parents, who did not finish high school, instilled in him an unshakable expectation of excellence and higher education. He reflects on the "giants" of the oncology field and provides a poignant critique of the systemic barriers that historically discouraged minority students from pursuing careers in science and medicine. This conversation serves as both a history lesson and a call to action for the next generation of medical leaders.

• The Power of Expectations: How Dr. Brawley’s parents and teachers fostered a mindset of "thinking and expressing oneself" despite socioeconomic challenges.
• A Detroit Legacy: Memories of growing up in a household where the pursuit of science was normalized, even when society suggested otherwise.
• Breaking Barriers: Insights into the historical context of Black professionals in medicine and the importance of mentorship.
• Reflections on Giants: A look at the impact of Black leaders in oncology during Black History Month.

Whether you are a medical professional, a student, or someone interested in the intersection of social justice and healthcare, Dr. Brawley’s story offers a masterclass in resilience and the pursuit of scientific truth.

More from The Cancer Letter: https://cancerletter.com/

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

"We’ve made progress, but we’ve got to remember that there’s just more to do."

In this latest installment of our Community Conversations series, Delegate Delores McQuinn joins Dr. Robert Winn and Clovia Lawrence to discuss the intersection of policy and the fight against cancer. Delegate McQuinn reflects on her years of service in the Virginia General Assembly, what the Virginia Cancer Caucus is and why she remains "full throttle" when it comes to advocating for her constituents' health and well-being.

From the halls of the State Capitol to the neighborhoods of Richmond, this episode explores how we can bridge the gap between policy and the people it serves. Tune in to hear why community-led discussions are the heartbeat of progress in the fight against cancer.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this bonus episode of Real Cancer Talk, Dr. Robert Winn is joined by Dr. Katherine Tossas, VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center Director of Catchment Area Data Analytics (CADA), and Dr. Chelsea Salyer, a gynecologic oncologist and lead for the gynecologic oncology clinical trial program at VCU Health, for a discussion focused on Cervical Cancer Awareness Month and the latest updates in cervical cancer screenings.

Dr. Salyer discusses some of the misconceptions surrounding cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer worldwide, important symptoms or signs and why cervical cancer is actually "eradicable". Dr. Tossas then shares her personal story with cervical cancer and what the experience taught her about the disease and prevention. LAter the three discuss the latest updates in cervical cancer screening and what the process is like for patients. Finally, Dr. Winn asks what men can do to help prevent cervical cancer.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk Massey leads an important conversation on protecting our health together by addressing HPV and cervical cancer prevention. OB-GYN specialist Dr. Tashima Lambert Giles shares powerful patient stories and explains how cervical cancer develops, who is most at risk, and why routine screening such as Pap tests and HPV testing remains one of the most effective tools for early detection and prevention. Pediatric nurse practitioner Janice McGirt highlights the critical role of the HPV vaccine, breaking down who should receive it, when to start, and why vaccination is essential for both girls and boys to prevent multiple HPV-related cancers. Together, the panel dispels common myths, answers audience questions, and emphasizes how education, access to care, and proactive prevention can save lives and reduce health disparities.

FFF Website: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/facts-and-faith-fridays/

Massey Website: masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: / vcumasseycancercenter

Twitter: / vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode of Real Cancer Talk from VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Rob Winn sits down with Chris Williams, owner and CEO of the SMART Modified Tour (Southern Modified Auto Racing Teams Tour), to explore an unexpected but powerful idea: motorsports can help bring cancer education and care awareness to rural communities.

From the deep roots of modified racing to the tight-knit “family” culture of local tracks, Williams explains why racing is more than entertainment—it’s a community hub that reaches people where they are, especially in areas with fewer resources and fewer healthcare touchpoints. Dr. Winn connects that community-first mindset to a shared mission in cancer care: one team, one fight—and making sure people in rural regions know they have real options, real progress, and real science on their side.

The conversation even moves onto the track at North Wilkesboro Speedway, as Williams gives a behind-the-scenes tour—covering racing history, safety, speed, and why partnerships between healthcare and grassroots communities can change outcomes.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.

In this episode adapted from the Community Conversations podcast with Community Clovia, we welcome Dr. Kim Rhoads, the associate director of community outreach and engagement at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Rhoads provides insight on pancreatic cancer following the tragic passing of Richmond legend D'Angelo, why pancreatic cancer is more common in certain populations and what people in the community can do to be proactive in their healthcare. Later Dr. Rhoads shares about the purpose behind community engagement and why she chose to come to VCU Massey.

Massey Website: https://masseycancercenter.org

Facebook: /vcumasseycancercenter

Instagram: @vcumassey

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is among an elite group of National Cancer Institute-designated institutions that lead and shape America's cancer research efforts. As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Massey is recognized for its scientific leadership and its ability to bridge groundbreaking research with life-saving patient care. Working with all kinds of cancers, Massey conducts basic, translational and clinical cancer research, provides state-of-the-art treatments and clinical trials, and promotes cancer prevention and education.

Since 1974, Massey has served as an internationally recognized center of excellence. It offers the most cancer clinical trials in Virginia and serves patients at multiple locations. Its 1,000-plus researchers, clinicians and staff members are dedicated to improving the quality of human life by developing and delivering effective means to prevent, control and ultimately cure cancer. Visit Massey online at masseycancercenter.org or call 877-4-MASSEY for more information.