The Cancering Show

In this episode, Dr. JYP speaks with Leah Phillips, a nonsmoker diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer in 2019. Leah emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and self-advocacy in health, sharing her journey from initial misdiagnosis to targeted therapy success. Despite an initial prognosis of six to 12 months to live, Leah has surpassed expectations with a targeted drug that led to significant tumor reduction and stability for over four years. Leah discusses her participation in clinical trials, the benefits of multimodal therapy, and her role in the Young Lung Cancer Initiative. For more about Leah, see her blog, "Unfiltered Life: A Mother’s Stage IV Lung Cancer Journey."

 

 3 Key Episode Takeaways

 Trust your instincts: Leah's insistence on further testing, even when initial medical opinions downplayed her symptoms, led to a crucial diagnosis. Her advocacy for her health underscores the importance of listening to your body and pushing for answers when something just feels wrong.

 Value of targeted therapies: Leah's treatment journey with a targeted therapy has been remarkable. Her primary tumor shrank by 70%, and she has maintained stability for more than four and a half years. Her journey highlights the transformative impact of advancements in cancer treatment.

 Advocacy and positivity: Maintaining a hopeful outlook and actively participating in cancer research and communities such as the Young Lung Cancer Initiative have been vital for Leah. They've empowered her to fight her battle, and provide solidarity and support to others facing similar challenges.

 

 Show Overview

 03:11 Leah's husband survived cancer; then she develops symptoms.

06:44 Her symptoms persist, despite treatment for various conditions.

09:55 Leah is admitted to the hospital with pneumonia but improves with steroids.

15:14 Leah is diagnosed with stage 4 non-small cell lung cancer.

15:56 How can a nonsmoker develop lung cancer?

21:36 Multimodal therapy includes chemo, radiation, and surgery.

28:26 Targeted therapies offer promise of a longer life.

30:04 Leah embraces acceptance and lives life fully.

35:05 A blogger, Leah also founded the Young Lung Cancer Initiative.

36:37 Leah's resilience should inspire us all.

In this episode, Dr. JYP and guest Susan Crutchfield discuss the complexities of tobacco addiction and strategies for quitting smoking. They highlight the importance of nonjudgmental support, individual motivations ("your why"), and the availability of various medications and therapies. The dangers of vaping, especially among youth, are also covered, emphasizing nicotine's addictive nature and health risks. The Great American Smokeout is promoted as an event that encourages smoking cessation through peer-to-peer engagement. The significance of early lung cancer detection, particularly through low-dose CT scans, is discussed, alongside lifestyle changes to reduce cancer risk. The episode underscores the need for continued research, prevention, and early detection in the fight against lung cancer.

 

3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. Compassionate approach: Encourage tobacco users to quit with a nonjudgmental approach, perhaps with personalized medications and therapies.

2. Youth and vaping concerns: Vaping is not only harmful, but it is also a gateway to traditional smoking, with significant health risks. Early interventions and targeted messaging can help curb this trend.

3. Great American Smokeout: Engage in the Great American Smokeout event to support smoking cessation. Sign a pledge to quit smoking or motivate someone else to take the first step.

 

Show Overview

01:23 Everyone knows someone who has had lung cancer.

09:00 Quitting smoking is hard, but resources can help.

11:02 One woman’s “why” was to live to enjoy her grandchildren.

14:47 Many people don’t realize that nicotine itself is a carcinogen.

17:19 The Great American Smokeout is coming to the University of South Alabama. 21:30 Who should get screened for lung cancer, and how? 25:24 Screenings and small behavior changes can make all the difference. 26:55 New drugs bring hope for many lung cancer patients.

Dr. JYP concludes a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. This episode delves into pathology reports and how patients can use them to better understand their condition. Dr. JYP describes the key elements of pathology reports and defines terms such as "benign," "malignant," “carcinoma,” and “sarcoma.” She discusses how detailed reports from biopsies aid in staging cancer and the implications for treatment options. She reminds listeners that pathology reports should always be discussed with a doctor, and that reviewing a report ahead of time can help a patient decide what questions to ask.

 

Key Episode Takeaways

- How to identify the location and type of tissue biopsied

- Key vocabulary terms: benign, malignant, carcinoma, and sarcoma

- Understanding the difference between grades of cancer cells

- The critical role of lymph or vascular space invasion

- Factors considered in TNM staging

 

Show Overview

02:20 Pathology reports can be distressing, but don’t starting Googling just yet.

05:17 Metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread from somewhere else.

06:22 Grade refers to how the cells look under a microscope.

07:45 Comments section may provide insight into the cancer’s origin.

10:28 The pathologist details cancer staging factors and criteria.

12:30 Regardless of stage, there’s always a treatment option.

14:08 Use your report to craft questions for your physician.

 

 

 

Dr. JYP continues a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. In this second episode, she discusses blood chemistry panels. She explains common abbreviations suck as BNP (basic metabolic panel) and CNP (comprehensive metabolic panel), guiding listeners through key components including sodium (NA), potassium (K), magnesium (MAG), kidney function tests (BUN and creatinine), and glucose levels. She discusses the importance of understanding normal ranges, the potential causes for abnormalities and the most common questions patients ask their doctors.

 

3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. The basics of metabolic panels: Learn the abbreviations and symbols for NA (sodium), K (potassium), and MAG (magnesium), and how they relate to your overall health.

2. Kidney function explained: Understand the importance of BUN and creatinine levels, and what they can indicate about your hydration status and kidney health.

3. Liver function and more: Get insights into ALT, AST, and bilirubin levels, and learn about the significance of albumin and glucose in your metabolic panel.

 

 

Show Overview:

02:15 What to know about results within the normal range and outside the range.

4:40 How could I be dehydrated from drinking too much “free water?”

06:15 How your kidneys manage sodium, potassium and magnesium.

09:18 Numbers that indicate pre-diabetes or result in an immediate diagnosis of diabetes.

12:01 Liver function tests and what they mean.

15:59 Hemoglobin A1C measures blood glucose levels over the past three months.

19:00 Check out the previous episode of reviewing CBC results. Next up, pathology reports.

Dr. JYP kicks off a three-part series focused on understanding the most common medical reports received by Cancering patients. In the first episode, she discusses the basics of the Complete Blood Count, or CBC, which shows levels of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets, highlighting the implications for high or low counts, especially for cancer patients. She also addresses treatments and precautions for those with low blood counts, urging listeners to feel empowered to understand their lab reports and to ask questions of their healthcare providers.   3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. Understanding your CBC: Dr. JYP breaks down the importance of the white blood cell count (WBC), red blood cell count (RBC), and platelets (PLT) — what these numbers mean and why they matter in the context of cancer treatment.

2. Patient portals matter: Learn why signing up for a patient portal is important for managing your health records, ensuring effective communication with your healthcare team, and staying informed about your test results.

3. Empower yourself with knowledge: From recognizing signs of infection to understanding anemia and its treatments, Dr. JYP arms you with the information you need to confidently discuss your lab results and their ramifications with your doctor.

Show Overview:

01:23  Welcome to the series: How to Read Your Lab Results. 04:32  Communicating with your care team on a patient portal. 10:16  When your numbers say wear a mask and avoid crowds. 11:35  What critically low neutrophils can mean. 16:58  Everything you wanted to know about anemia. 19:39  Platelets and chemotherapy and time. 22:27  Cutting-edge cancer research at the Mitchell Cancer Institute.

In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with USA Health urologist Dr. Christopher Keel, D.O about prostate cancer and men's health. They start by weighing the reasons for why some men avoid seeing a physician and discuss how the advent of Viagra for erectile dysfunction helped motivate many men to go to a doctor’s office. Dr. Keel highlights the importance of screening for prostate cancer starting at age 40 or 45 depending on family history. He explains how robotic surgery has improved treatment outcomes and reduced side effects.

Dr. Keel also explores the usefulness of genetic testing for high-risk patients and how new drugs are revolutionizing cancer treatment. He and Dr. JYP stress the importance of maintaining a healthy weight to reduce cancer risk. Dr. Keel discusses the option of active surveillance for managing low-grade prostate cancer, pointing out that not every diagnosis requires immediate treatment. They wrap up by emphasizing the importance of getting checked during September, Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. The key message: Get those check-ups, because early detection saves lives.

3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. Changing attitudes about screening: PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) testing is crucial for early detection of prostate cancer; yet many men avoid screening due to fear or misconceptions about the test and potential diagnosis. This episode encourages men to use football season in September as a reminder to take care of their health and make an appointment to get tested.

2. Advancements in prostate cancer treatment: Technological advancements such as the use of robotics in prostatectomies and the development of targeted therapies like PARP inhibitors and PSMA PET scans have revolutionized prostate cancer treatment. These innovations have made treatments less invasive and significantly reduced side effects such as erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. The use of genetic testing for personalized treatment plans is also a key point, showcasing a shift toward more individualized care.   3. Lifestyle factors affect prostate cancer risk: Obesity is linked to a higher incidence of prostate cancer – as well as other types of cancer. Healthier lifestyle choices such as following a Mediterranean diet and incorporating regular exercise is suggested not only for reducing cancer risk but also for improving overall health, including erectile function.

In this episode of the Cancering podcast, Dr. JYP discusses how to avoid illnesses such colds, flu, and COVID while undergoing cancer treatment. She offers practical tips such as handwashing, using up-to-date hand sanitizer, and avoiding others who are ill. Dr. JYP gives advice on when to wear a medical mask and when to use an N95 to reduce the risk of infection. She also talks about the importance of home testing for COVID and flu, as well as when to call the doctor's office for certain symptoms. 

This episode covers the usefulness of supplements such as vitamin D and zinc, which can help boost immunity, but warns against high doses of vitamin C during cancer treatment. Dr. JYP also mentions the potential benefits of chicken soup, which can help alleviate respiratory symptoms. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of self-care and staying hydrated.

 

3 Key Takeaways

 

1. Hygiene and Avoidance: Dr. JYP emphasizes the importance of basic hygiene practices such as washing hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap or using hand sanitizer.  She stresses the necessity of avoiding close contact with people who are sick, even if that means declining invitations. 

2. Effective Mask Usage: Dr. JYP stresses the need to wear a medical mask or N95 during periods of low immunity related to chemotherapy cycles – particularly in higher-risk environments such as airplanes. She comments on the effectiveness of cloth masks, medical masks and N95s for preventing the spread and contraction of viral illnesses.

3. Supplements and Nutrition during Cancer Treatment: Dr. JYP provides clear guidance on the use of dietary supplements and nutrition. While vitamin D and zinc can be beneficial in boosting the immune system and aiding recovery, she cautions against high doses of vitamin C during active cancer treatment as it can interfere with cancer medication. She also recommends chicken soup, which has been shown to have mucus-thinning properties and other health benefits during respiratory illnesses.

 

Show Overview

02:00 Key rules: Wash hands and avoid people who are sick.

03:21 Limit large group exposures and wear a mask.

06:48 Home testing and preventive medication to stay out of the hospital.

11:03 Why high doses of vitamin C can interfere with cancer treatment.

 

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce interviews Rev. Christopher Williams Sr., pastor of Yorktown Missionary Baptist Church, about the struggles and resilience of  Africatown, Alabama. Rev. Williams highlights the powerful impact of community support and the opening of the Africatown Heritage House Museum. He discusses high rates of cancer in his congregation and the area, and environmental concerns related to a now-closed industrial plant. Despite frustrations, local advocacy has led to positive changes, including new community resources to improve the lives of residents.

Rev. Williams shares personal stories about the impact of cancer on families and the role of faith in healing. He also describes how his community, founded by formerly enslaved people, built a thriving society that flourished for years. The episode concludes with a call for continued support, research and restoration for Africatown.

3 Key Takeaways 1.  Community Advocacy and Empowerment: Rev. Christopher Williams emphasizes the empowering impact of having support and advocacy for the Africatown community. He also describes successful efforts to add new resources, such as a business center and food bank.

2.  Cancer and Environmental Justice: There is a significant focus on the high rates of cancer and other health issues observed in Africatown. Rev. Williams' personal anecdotes about church members affected by cancer highlight the toll that serious illness takes on a congregation and a community, and the need to learn more about the root causes of these health problems.

3.  Africatown’s Historical and Cultural Significance: Africatown's rich history, founded by enslaved people who built a thriving community, is prominently featured. Despite this, the community has struggled with population loss and economic decline over the years. Recently, Africatown has gained prominence as an important heritage site featured in books and the documentary “Descendant.”

Show Overview

02:00 Meet Rev. Christopher Williams, Africatown pastor and advocate.

03:16 After conducting funerals, Rev. Williams surveys the community about cancer.

05:40 Africatown represents world and American history.

08:08 Recollections of life near a busy paper mill.

10:29 New resources and new homes in Africatown.

15:05 Families affected by cancer and a preacher's responsibility.

22:20 Rev. Williams asks us to support each other in prayer, faith, love.

24:57 Resources to learn more about Africatown.

 

In this episode, Dr. JYP talks with Ashley McCrary, a mother of four and survivor of ocular melanoma. Diagnosed in 2012, Ashley recalls that two of her college friends from Auburn University had also suffered from this rare eye cancer. She tells the story of having her right eye removed and how she later learned that the cancer had spread to her liver. Despite her devastating diagnosis, Ashley shares how she stays positive and finds purpose through her faith and intentional interactions with fellow eye cancer survivors and others. She talks about her foundation, Eye On Grace, which helps fund travel for cancer patients needing treatment. Ashley has participated in a clinical trial in Philadelphia for three years, significantly reducing the number and size of her tumors. She also introduces the Eye Patch Challenge to raise awareness and funds for research. Ashley's heartwarming relationships with her doctors, nurses and an Uber driver highlight the importance of community support. Dr. JYP highlights Ashley's resilience and dedication to making the most of every day, proving that even in the face of a tough diagnosis, maintaining a positive outlook and helping others can make a big difference.

Enjoy this inspirational show!

3 Key Takeaways - The power of sweet friendships: Ashley values meeting new people and making connections on the cancer journey. Her acquaintances, such as Uber drivers, nurses and restaurant regulars, became fast friends and supporters over time. We all benefit by being intentional in our interactions and by taking the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others.

- Investigating ocular melanoma cases: The unique grouping of ocular melanoma cases in Auburn, Alabama, and elsewhere garnered national attention, which has led to ongoing research to identify potential environmental factors and advance global research collaborations.

- Supporting the fight against cancer: Focusing on the needs of others can be very beneficial for cancer survivors. Ashley raises funds to support fellow cancer patients through her Eye On Grace Foundation. Hear about her plans for the Eye Patch Challenge and her drive to aid others in their cancer battles.

 

Show Overview

 

02:15 Ashley's delayed response to a black spot on her eye

09:26 Unusual case attracts national attention, prompts research

10:26 49 Ocular melanoma cases linked to Auburn, Alabama

14:19 Diagnosed with metastatic disease

20:01 Participating in clinical trial and finding a silver lining

22:49 Getting access to crucial medical treatment

26:03 Eye Patch Challenge for cancer awareness

28:33 Support and friendships on the way to the airport

33:27 Inspiration and Eye on Grace project

 

 

Never Miss an EpisodePlease subscribe to The Cancering Show

Want us to deliver The Cancering Show to your email inbox?Let us know by contacting Dr. JYP at cancering.com.

Thanks for listening to The Cancering Show, brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute.

Please subscribe, rate and review The Cancering Show wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

USA Health Mitchell Cancer InstituteThe Cancering Show is brought to you by USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute. MCI is a cutting-edge cancer research and treatment center built to fight cancer smarter in Mobile and Baldwin counties in Alabama. Our researchers and clinicians focus daily on the struggle against cancer, serving a potential catchment population of more than 4.1 million people, with a singular focus of advancing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prevention throughout the Gulf Coast and beyond with science, technology and hope.

Want to know more about the Mitchell Cancer Institute?Visit us at usamci.com or search for us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Mitchell Cancer Institute is a member of USA Health.

To learn more about all of USA Health hospitals, clinics and services, visit usahealthsystem.com.

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Young Pierce focuses on the importance of building a strong cancer care team. She explains the roles of various medical team members, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, and different types of nurses and nurse practitioners. She also highlights nonmedical support staff like social workers, nutritionists, and counselors. Dr. JYP emphasizes the value of relying on your caregivers and fellow patients for support, and the need to inform primary care doctors and other specialists about your cancer diagnosis. She briefly discusses alternative therapies, advising caution and open communication with oncologists about any such treatments. The goal of the cancer team is to provide comprehensive support to help patients feel like themselves and achieve the best possible outcomes in their cancer journey.

Enjoy this information-packed episode.

 

3 Key Takeaways 1. Comprehensive Cancer Team: Learn about the different types of oncologists (medical, radiation, and surgical), and their distinct roles in your cancer care journey. Understanding these roles can help you better navigate and utilize your care team.

2. Essential Support Services: Discover the crucial nonclinical team members who can provide significant support, such as nurse navigators, financial counselors, nutritionists, social workers, and more. These professionals can help ease the burden of non-medical concerns.

3. Inclusivity of Care: Remember your existing healthcare providers, and keep them in the loop so that everyone is on the same page for your cancer treatment and beyond.

Show Overview 02:39 Introduction of the types of doctors and their roles on your cancer team.

05:39 Nurses and nurse practitioners are integral to your care.

08:13 Cancer center services include navigators and medical support.

13:42 Support groups provide helpful advice and mentorship for cancer patients.

17:47 If needed, ask the team for help with anxiety and depression. Some alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, can relieve discomfort in cancer patients.

19:48 JYP cautions against using herbal supplements for cancer treatment.These should always be cleared by the cancer team.