The Onco Life Podcast

A new study suggests that a blood test may one day help predict which breast cancer patients are more likely to benefit from immunotherapy. This emerging liquid biopsy approach focuses on immune-related signals in the blood, especially T-cell activity, to better understand treatment response in patients with HER2-negative breast cancer.

In this episode, we break down what this research means for breast cancer care and why it could become an important step toward more personalized cancer treatment strategies.

You’ll learn:

•  What this new liquid biopsy blood test measures and how it differs from standard ctDNA testing 
•  Why T-cell activity may help predict immunotherapy success 
•  Key findings from the study involving 546 blood samples from 160 breast cancer patients 
•  How blood transcriptomic patterns were linked to better treatment response 
•  Why immunotherapy is already important for high-risk triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) 
•  How blood-based testing is becoming more common in breast cancer treatment decisions 
•  Why researchers still need larger studies and validation before routine clinical use 
•  What questions remain about timing, cutoffs, and treatment changes based on test results 
•  How this research could lead to less invasive and more personalized cancer care in the future 

This episode explores the growing role of liquid biopsy research in breast cancer treatment and why doctors are looking for smarter ways to predict immunotherapy outcomes while reducing unnecessary side effects.

Blog Link: Blood Test Could Help Predict Breast Cancer Immunotherapy Success

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explain what cervical cancer recurrence means, why it can happen after treatment, and what patients should know about monitoring, warning signs, and treatment options. Even when cervical cancer returns, early detection and personalized care can help improve quality of life and treatment outcomes.

You’ll learn:

•  What does cervical cancer recurrence mean after treatment 
•  Why microscopic cancer cells may remain hidden in the body 
•  How HPV increases the risk of cervical cancer returning 
•  Why lymph node involvement can raise recurrence risk 
•  Common warning signs like pelvic pain, unusual bleeding, fatigue, and leg swelling 
•  How doctors use imaging scans, pelvic exams, and blood tests for monitoring 
•  Treatment options for recurrent cervical cancer include radiation therapy and chemotherapy 
•  When pelvic exenteration surgery may be considered for localized recurrence 
•  How personalized treatment plans help balance effectiveness and side effects 
•  Why long-term follow-up care is important after cervical cancer treatment 
•  How supportive oncology care helps patients manage symptoms and maintain quality of life 

This episode also discusses the importance of early detection, ongoing monitoring, and modern treatment strategies for recurrent cervical cancer and metastatic cervical cancer.

Blog Link: What Happens if Cervical Cancer Treatment Fails or the Cancer Returns?

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explore the important role oncologists play in cancer survivorship care after active treatment ends. Survivorship is not only about recovery, but it also involves long-term monitoring, emotional support, and coordinated healthcare to help cancer survivors live healthier and safer lives.

You’ll learn:

•  What cancer survivorship care means after treatment ends 
•  How oncologists help patients transition into long-term recovery 
•  What is included in survivorship care plans and follow-up schedules 
•  Why long-term monitoring is important for recurrence and side effect management 
•  How emotional support improves quality of life for cancer survivors 
•  The role of primary care doctors in coordinated survivorship care 
•  How survivorship programs help organize follow-ups and improve patient support 
•  Why healthy lifestyle guidance is part of long-term cancer recovery 
•  Common challenges in survivorship care and how healthcare teams address them 
•  How future survivorship care plans are becoming more personalized and patient-focused 

This episode explains how survivorship care creates a continuous support system for cancer survivors through monitoring, prevention, emotional care, and teamwork between oncology and primary care providers.

Blog Link: The Role of an Oncologist in Cancer Survivorship Care

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explain how breast cancer can spread to the bones, the symptoms patients should watch for, and the treatment options available to help manage pain, mobility, and quality of life.

You’ll learn:

•  What does bone metastasis mean in stage IV breast cancer 
•  The most common areas where breast cancer spreads include the spine, pelvis, ribs, and limbs 
•  Early symptoms such as persistent bone pain, fractures, numbness, and fatigue 
•  Why bone metastases are sometimes mistaken for other conditions 
•  How doctors diagnose bone metastasis using X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, bone scans, and blood tests 
•  The role of radiation therapy in reducing pain and stabilizing weakened bones 
•  How hormone therapy and targeted therapy help slow cancer growth in the bones 
•  The importance of pain management and medications that support bone strength 
•  How clinical trials may provide access to newer treatment options 
•  Lifestyle adjustments that help reduce injury risk and improve mobility 
•  The benefits of physical therapy, emotional support, and nutritional care during treatment 

Bone metastasis can feel overwhelming, but early detection and specialist-guided care can help patients manage symptoms, maintain independence, and improve overall quality of life. Understanding treatment options empowers patients and families to make informed decisions throughout their cancer journey.

Blog Link: Bone Metastasis in Breast Cancer: Symptoms and Treatment

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explain why follow-up care remains essential even after cancer goes into remission and how regular monitoring helps support long-term health and recovery.

You’ll learn:

•  What cancer remission really means and why microscopic cancer cells may still remain 
•  Why does the risk of recurrence not completely disappear after treatment 
•  How follow-up visits help detect cancer changes early 
•  The role of blood tests, CT scans, and physical exams in ongoing monitoring 
•  Why survivorship care plans are important for long-term support 
•  How doctors monitor organ function, energy levels, and emotional health after treatment 
•  Common long-term side effects from chemotherapy and radiation therapy 
•  Why symptoms like fatigue, pain, nerve changes, or hormonal imbalance should be discussed early 
•  Warning signs to watch for, including swelling, unexplained weight loss, and unusual fatigue 
•  How lifestyle habits and regular medical care support recovery and quality of life 

Cancer remission is an important milestone, but continued follow-up care helps patients stay proactive about their health. Early detection of recurrence, proper management of side effects, and personalized survivorship care can improve long-term outcomes and peace of mind.

Blog Link: Why Follow-Up Care Matters After Cancer Remission

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explore how persistent ear blockage or hearing loss may sometimes be linked to nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), a rare cancer that develops behind the nose and near the ears.

You’ll learn:

•  What is nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), and where does it develop 
•  How NPC can block the Eustachian tube and cause ear fullness or hearing loss 
•  Why one-sided hearing changes should not be ignored 
•  The connection between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and NPC 
•  Common warning signs, including neck lumps, nosebleeds, headaches, and facial numbness 
•  How doctors use CT scans, MRI scans, and biopsies to diagnose NPC 
•  The role of radiation therapy in treating nasopharyngeal cancer 
•  How chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy may be used in treatment plans 
•  Why combined treatment approaches can improve cancer control 
•  The importance of follow-up care, imaging, and symptom monitoring after treatment 
•  When persistent ear symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist 

Most ear blockage and hearing loss cases are harmless, but symptoms that last for weeks should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and specialist-guided care can improve treatment outcomes and support long-term recovery.

Blog Link: Persistent ear blockage or hearing loss: Could it be NPC?

Send us Fan Mail

Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we explain the best treatment options for early-stage prostate cancer and how men can make informed decisions based on their diagnosis, PSA levels, and overall health.

You’ll learn:

•  What early-stage prostate cancer means and why early detection matters 
•  Common signs of prostate cancer include trouble urinating and blood in the urine 
•  The role of PSA blood tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) 
•  The different types of prostate cancer, including adenocarcinoma and rare prostate tumors 
•  How active surveillance helps monitor low-risk prostate cancer safely 
•  What happens during a radical prostatectomy, and why is robotic-assisted surgery commonly used 
•  How radiation therapy and brachytherapy work to destroy cancer cells 
•  The benefits of focal therapies for preserving healthy tissue and reducing side effects 
•  How doctors choose the right treatment plan based on cancer stage and patient needs 
•  Why regular PSA tests, imaging scans, and follow-up care are important after treatment 
•  Lifestyle tips that support recovery and long-term prostate health 

Early-stage prostate cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Understanding your treatment options can help you feel more confident about your care and improve your chances of long-term cancer control and quality of life.

Blog Link: What Is the Best Treatment for Prostate Cancer in Early Stages?

Send us Fan Mail

Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we break down how colon polyps can develop into colorectal cancer and why early screening is one of the best ways to protect your long-term health.

You’ll learn:

•  What colon polyps are and how they form 
•  The difference between adenomatous, serrated, hyperplastic, and inflammatory polyps 
•  Why some polyps are considered pre-cancerous 
•  Common risk factors, including age, genetics, smoking, and inflammatory bowel disease 
•  Why do most colon polyps cause no symptoms 
•  Warning signs like blood in stool and bowel habit changes 
•  How colonoscopy helps detect and remove polyps before cancer develops 
•  Why screening should begin at age 45 for most adults 
•  Lifestyle changes that may help reduce colorectal cancer risk 
•  The importance of long-term monitoring after polyp removal 

Understanding colon polyps and colorectal cancer development can help you take proactive steps toward prevention. Early detection, regular screening, and healthy lifestyle habits can greatly reduce the risk of serious disease and support long-term colon health.

Blog Link: Colon Polyps and Colorectal Cancer Development

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Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

A new KRAS-targeted therapy is showing encouraging early results for patients with advanced lung and pancreatic cancer. In this episode, we break down the latest clinical trial findings and explain what this experimental treatment could mean for patients with KRAS G12D mutations.

You’ll learn:

•  What the KRAS G12D mutation is and why it matters in cancer care 
•  Why KRAS mutations have been difficult to target for decades 
•  How does this new targeted therapy work differently from older cancer drugs 
•  What researchers found in patients with non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer 
•  What objective response rate and tumor shrinkage mean in simple terms 
•  Why molecular and genomic testing are becoming essential in personalized cancer care 
•  The side effects and safety questions researchers are still studying 
•  Why this treatment is promising, but not yet an approved standard therapy 

The phase 1 clinical trial showed measurable tumor shrinkage in some patients with advanced cancers carrying KRAS G12D mutations, including lung and pancreatic cancer. Researchers are now continuing larger studies to learn whether this therapy can improve long-term survival and disease control.

If you or a loved one has advanced cancer, this episode explains why genetic testing, mutation status, and clinical trials may play an important role in future treatment options.

Blog Link: KRAS-Targeted Therapy Shows Promise in Cancer Care

Send us Fan Mail

Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

In this episode, we break down chemotherapy options for pancreatic cancer in Malaysia, helping you understand how treatment works, when it’s used, and how it supports better outcomes and quality of life.

You’ll learn:

• How chemotherapy works to target cancer cells throughout the body
•  When chemotherapy is used for early, locally advanced, and metastatic pancreatic cancer
•  Why is it often given before or after surgery to improve treatment success
•  The role of CT scans and blood tests in monitoring treatment progress
•  How chemotherapy is combined with targeted therapy and supportive care
•  What supportive care includes, from managing fatigue to maintaining nutrition and hydration
•  Why does early detection play a key role in improving treatment effectiveness
•  How personalized treatment plans help patients achieve better long-term outcomes

Whether you or a loved one is exploring treatment options, this episode provides clear guidance to help you better understand pancreatic cancer care in Malaysia and make informed decisions.

Blog Link: Understanding Chemotherapy Options for Pancreatic Cancer in Malaysia

Send us Fan Mail

Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education.

Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com
📞 Call: +60 3 2242 3260
📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.