The Onco Life Podcast

The Onco Life Podcast

By DR. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZEArts
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The Onco Life Podcast episodes

  • Long-Term Immunotherapy for ASPS: AACR 2026 Breakthrough in Rare Cancer Treatment

    In this episode, we break down the latest AACR 2026 breakthrough on long-term immunotherapy for alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), a rare cancer that primarily affects adolescents and young adults.

    You’ll learn:

    • What ASPS is and why it has been difficult to treat
    •  How immunotherapy is changing the landscape for rare cancers
    •  Key findings from the Phase II trial using atezolizumab
    •  Why long-term immunotherapy beyond two years may be safe and effective
    •  How patients maintained disease stability without increased serious side effects
    •  Common side effects and how they can be safely managed
    •  Why immune checkpoint inhibitors are showing durable responses in ASPS
    •  How extended treatment could improve survival and quality of life
    •  The role of personalized treatment plans based on patient response
    •  What this breakthrough means for the future of rare cancer care

    Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare professional, this episode explains how long-term immunotherapy is opening new doors for safer, more personalized cancer treatment and why it could be a game-changer for managing rare cancers like ASPS.

    Blog Link: AACR 2026 Long-Term Immunotherapy for ASPS Cancer Patients

    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.

    2 min
  • Why More Young Adults Are Being Diagnosed With Colorectal Cancer

    In this episode, we explore why more young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer and what this rising trend means for your health.

    You’ll learn:

    •  Why colorectal cancer cases are increasing in adults under 50 
    •  The lifestyle habits that may raise your risk, including diet, inactivity, and obesity 
    •  How gut health, antibiotic use, and early-life exposures may play a role 
    •  The impact of family history and inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome
    •  The warning signs young adults should never ignore 
    •  Why screening now starts at age 45, and how colonoscopies can prevent cancer 
    •  What treatment options are available, and why early detection matters 

    If you’ve ever assumed colorectal cancer only affects older adults, this episode will help you understand the risks, recognize symptoms early, and take steps to protect your long-term health.

    Blog Link: Why More Young Adults Are Being Diagnosed With Colorectal Cancer

    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.

    2 min
  • How Oncologists Create Personalized Treatment Plans for Each Cancer Type

    In this episode, we explain how oncologists design personalized treatment plans based on cancer type, patient health, and evolving treatment strategies.

    You’ll learn:

    • How different cancer types influence treatment decisions
    •  Why tumor behavior and cancer cell features matter in planning care
    •  How personalized medicine helps target specific cancer cells more effectively
    •  Why two patients with the same diagnosis may receive different treatment options
    •  The role of targeted therapy, supportive care, and combination treatments
    •  How clinical trials offer access to new and advanced treatment strategies
    •  Why ongoing monitoring and adjustments are key to long-term care

    Understanding how oncologists create personalized treatment plans helps patients feel more informed and confident in their care journey. This episode breaks down how specialists balance effective cancer control with maintaining quality of life through tailored approaches.

    Whether you are newly diagnosed or exploring treatment options, this episode will help you understand how personalized medicine works and how treatment plans are adapted to fit each patient’s unique needs.

    Blog Link: How Oncologists Create Personalized Treatment Plans for Each Cancer Type

    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.

    11 min
  • How Breast Cancer Spreads to Lungs and Bones: Signs, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

    In this episode, we break down how breast cancer spreads to the lungs and bones, and what patients and families need to know about breast cancer metastasis and metastatic disease.

    You’ll learn:

    • What breast cancer metastasis is and how cancer cells travel through the body
    •  Why are the lungs and bones common targets for cancer spread
    •  Key symptoms of lung metastasis and bone metastasis to watch for
    •  How imaging tests and blood tests help detect cancer spread early
    •  Treatment options include targeted therapy, hormone therapy, and supportive care
    •  How ongoing monitoring and lifestyle support help maintain quality of life

    Understanding how breast cancer spreads to the lungs and bones can help patients take an active role in their care. This episode explains the importance of early detection, accurate imaging, and personalized treatment plans to support long-term stability and comfort.

    Whether you are newly diagnosed or managing metastatic disease, this episode will help you stay informed, recognize symptoms early, and work closely with your care team to improve outcomes and quality of life.

    Blog Link: How Breast Cancer Spreads to Lungs and Bones

    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.

    19 min
  • Emerging Therapies for Difficult-to-Treat Uterine Cancer: New Options and Hope

    In this episode, we explore the latest emerging therapies for hard-to-treat uterine cancer and how they help patients with advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer.

    You’ll learn:

    • How targeted therapy attacks specific tumor cell features while sparing healthy tissue
    •  Why do immune checkpoint inhibitors help the immune system recognize and fight cancer cells
    •  How hormonal therapy slows growth in hormone-dependent endometrial carcinoma
    •  The role of radiation therapy in controlling tumors in the uterus and nearby lymph nodes
    •  Who benefits most from emerging therapies, including advanced-stage or recurrent cases
    •  How clinical trials and FDA-approved treatments expand options for patients
    •  Practical strategies to manage side effects, support immune health, and maintain quality of life

    Understanding emerging therapies helps patients and families explore new treatment options when standard approaches are limited. This episode explains how specialists combine innovative therapies, monitor progress, and create personalized plans to improve outcomes.

    Whether you are managing advanced endometrial cancer or supporting someone through treatment, this episode provides clear guidance on the latest therapies and how they can make a meaningful difference in care.

    Blog Link: Emerging Therapies for Difficult-to-Treat Uterine Cancer

    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.

    22 min
  • Can Uterine Cancer Be Treated Without Surgery? Options and Strategies

    In this episode, we explore how uterine cancer (endometrial cancer) can be treated without surgery and what patients need to know about non-surgical care.

    You’ll learn:

    • How radiation therapy targets cancer cells in the uterus and surrounding areas
    •  When hormone therapy and targeted therapy are effective alternatives to surgery
    •  Who may benefit most from non-surgical treatments, including early-stage patients or those wishing to preserve fertility
    •  How oncologists design personalized treatment plans based on cancer type, stage, and patient health
    •  Ways to manage side effects like fatigue, skin changes, and mild digestive issues
    •  The role of clinical trials in assessing new therapies and advanced care
    •  How supportive care, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support improve quality of life during treatment

    Understanding non-surgical options for uterine cancer helps patients make informed decisions and feel more confident in their care. This episode explains how specialists combine treatments, monitor progress, and focus on both effectiveness and comfort.

    Whether you are exploring alternatives to surgery or supporting someone through treatment, this episode provides clear guidance on safe, personalized approaches for uterine cancer care.

    Blog Link: Can Uterine Cancer Be Treated Without Surgery?

    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.

    17 min
  • Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): How It Works for Liver Cancer Treatment

    In this episode, we explain how transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) works as a targeted liver cancer treatment and why it plays a key role in controlling tumor growth.

    You’ll learn:

    • What TACE is and how it combines chemotherapy with blood flow blockage
    •  How interventional radiologists use catheters and imaging to target liver tumors
    •  Why blocking the hepatic arterial blood supply helps slow cancer growth
    •  Who is a good candidate for TACE, and when is it recommended
    •  Common side effects like post-embolization syndrome and how they are managed
    •  The benefits of a minimally invasive procedure compared to traditional surgery
    •  How TACE is combined with targeted therapy and other treatments for better outcomes

    Understanding how transarterial chemoembolization works helps patients feel more confident when exploring liver cancer treatment options. This episode breaks down the procedure in simple terms, explaining how it targets tumors while preserving healthy liver tissue.

    Whether you are considering TACE or supporting someone through treatment, this episode will help you understand the process, benefits, and what to expect during recovery and follow-up care.

    Blog Link: Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): How It Works

    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.

    22 min
  • Side Effects of Cervical Cancer Treatment and How to Manage Them for Better Recovery

    In this episode, we break down the most common side effects of cervical cancer treatment and share simple, effective ways to manage them while maintaining quality of life.

    You’ll learn:

    • What side effects to expect from cervical cancer treatment, including fatigue, menopause symptoms, and vaginal dryness
    •  How treatments like radiation and surgery can affect nearby tissues and overall health
    •  Simple ways to manage short-term side effects with hydration, nutrition, rest, and gentle exercise
    •  How to handle long-term effects like persistent fatigue and changes in sexual health
    •  The importance of emotional support, counseling, and support groups during recovery
    •  Why regular follow-up care, imaging tests, and blood tests are essential for long-term health
    •  How lifestyle adjustments can improve recovery, strength, and daily comfort

    Understanding the side effects of cervical cancer treatment helps patients feel more prepared and in control during recovery. This episode explains how to manage both short-term and long-term effects with practical strategies and supportive care.

    Whether you are going through treatment or adjusting to life after, this episode will help you protect your quality of life, stay proactive with follow-ups, and build a strong support system for long-term well-being.

    Blog Link: Side-effects of Cervical Cancer Treatment and How to Manage Them

    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.

    21 min
  • Pancreatic Cancer Stages Explained: From Diagnosis to Treatment Planning

    In this episode, we break down pancreatic cancer stages and what they mean for diagnosis, treatment planning, and overall care.

    You’ll learn:

    • What each stage of pancreatic cancer means, from Stage 0 to Stage IV
    •  How tumor size, nearby lymph nodes, and distant organ spread affect staging
    •  Why early stages offer more treatment options and better outcomes
    •  How imaging tests help confirm diagnosis and monitor progression
    •  What happens when cancer involves major blood vessels or distant organs
    •  How staging guides personalized treatment plans, from curative care to symptom management

    Understanding pancreatic cancer stages helps patients and families make informed decisions and prepare for each step of the care journey. This episode explains how specialists use staging to design treatment plans and why accurate diagnosis is critical from the start.

    Whether you are newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, this episode will help you better understand staging, treatment options, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.

    Blog Link: Pancreatic Cancer Stages Explained: From Diagnosis to Treatment Planning

    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.

    13 min
  • Tumor-Targeting Probiotic Bacteria: A Breakthrough in Targeted Cancer Therapy

    In this episode, we explore an innovative approach to cancer treatment using engineered probiotic bacteria, an emerging strategy that could transform how tumors are targeted and treated.

    You’ll learn:

    • What tumor-targeting probiotic bacteria are and how they work
    •  How engineered microbes can locate tumors and produce cancer-fighting drugs on site
    •  Why E. coli Nissle 1917 is being used as a safe and promising probiotic strain
    •  How the drug romidepsin is delivered directly within the tumor microenvironment
    •  Key findings from early mouse studies and what they reveal about tumor growth reduction
    •  The potential benefits of this approach, including fewer side effects compared to chemotherapy
    •  The major challenges scientists still face include safety, control, and human testing

    While still in the early research stage, this breakthrough highlights the future of more precise, targeted cancer therapies. Learn how scientists are turning bacteria into powerful tools in the fight against cancer and what it could mean for patients in the years ahead.

    Blog Link: Tumor-Targeting Probiotic Bacteria for Cancer Therapy

    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.

    2 min

About The Onco Life Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for cancer care insights, treatment updates, and patient-centered education. Hosted by the team at Onco Life Centre in Kuala Lumpur,…