In this episode of The Patient From Hell, host Samira Daswani speaks with Dr. Sara Char about her journey into oncology, the evolution of cancer biology, and the significant role of the microbiome in colon cancer. They discuss the complexities of cancer survivorship, the effectiveness of different methods of delivering survivorship care plans, and the importance of colonoscopy in monitoring colorectal cancer. The conversation also delves into the impact of diet on cancer risk, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of dietary patterns rather than focusing solely on individual foods. In this conversation, Dr. Sara Char discusses various aspects of survivorship care for colorectal cancer patients, focusing on dietary recommendations, exercise, and the emotional challenges faced during the transition from active treatment to survivorship. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of balancing nutrition, understanding the role of GLP-1 agonists, and the need for a supportive care team. Additionally, the conversation highlights the unique mental health needs of survivors and the significance of providing patients with a roadmap for their cancer journey.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Sara Char is a Clinical Fellow in Hematology and Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Massachusetts General Hospital.

Resources & Links:

This episode was supported by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) and features the PCORI research study here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34302474/ - ‘Simplifying Survivorship Care Planning: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing 3 Care Plan Delivery Approaches’

Chapter Codes

00:00 Exploring the Microbiome and Colon Cancer

05:59 The Transition to Survivorship Care

11:57 Understanding Adherence in Survivorship Plans

17:49 The Role of Colonoscopy in Survivorship

24:06 Dietary Patterns and Cancer Risk

25:04 Inflammatory Diet and Health Outcomes

28:11 Dietary Recommendations for Cancer Survivors

30:34 Exercise and Body Composition in Cancer Care

31:59 Managing GI Issues with GLP-1 Agonists

34:43 Navigating Multidisciplinary Care

35:50 The Transition from Active Treatment to Survivorship

38:08 Mental Health Challenges Post-Treatment

41:41 The Need for Psycho-Oncology Support

46:47 The Importance of Patient Education and Resources

Connect with Us:

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Tags & Keywords: oncology, cancer biology, microbiome, colon cancer, survivorship, cancer treatment, dietary patterns, health, colorectal cancer, patient care, colorectal cancer, survivorship, nutrition, exercise, GLP-1 agonists, mental health, dietary recommendations, cancer recovery, patient care, health outcomes #Storytelling #Identity #Representation #Authenticity #Podcast #Culture #CancerAwareness #MedicalPodcast #CancerSurvivor #Oncology #Healthcare #CancerSupport #PatientStories #CancerResearch #HealthPodcast #CancerCommunity #SurvivorStories #MentalHealth #Wellness #HealthcareInnovation

Disclaimer:

All content and information provided in connection with Manta Cares is solely intended for informational and educational purposes only. This content and information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

This episode was supported by an award from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute.