Integrative Oncology Talk

In this episode of Integrative Oncology Talk, host Judith Lacey welcomes Dr. Santhosshi Narayanan from MD Anderson to discuss Ayurvedic medicine's potential benefits for cancer patients. Narayanan, an internal medicine physician specializing in integrative oncology, delves into the ancient practices of Ayurveda, which emphasizes a personalized approach incorporating diet, exercise, and mind-body techniques. The conversation covers Ayurveda's principles, how it can complement conventional cancer care, and the importance of studying Ayurvedic herbs for safety and efficacy.

In this episode of Integrative Oncology Talk, hosts Dr. Judith Lacey and Karen discuss the role of integrative therapies in cancer care, focusing on the treatment and management of cancer-related fatigue. They examine the evolution of exercise and yoga in integrative oncology, the development of ASCO and SIO guidelines, and the efficacy of non-pharmacological approaches for cancer patients. Karen shares her extensive experience in yoga therapy, and exercise oncology, and discusses her studies and data supporting these practices. They also delve into the importance of personalized exercise prescriptions and the potential benefits of prehabilitation programs. This conversation sheds light on the need for diverse and patient-preferred treatment options in improving cancer care and patient quality of life.

Join us as we spotlight the groundbreaking efforts of the Center for Native American Cancer Health Equity (C-NACHE) in addressing Native American cancer health inequities. Through insightful interviews, we explore the challenges Native communities face when seeking cancer care and the center's initiatives in broadening awareness and amplifying community voices to break down those challenges. C-NACHE is an American Cancer Society-funded grant focused on improving cancer screening rates among Native Americans, increasing education about tribe-specific cancer trends, and addressing disproportionately high exposure to carcinogenic environmental contaminants. Discover why this center was established and its unique strategies to tackle cancer health inequities in Native American communities. Hear firsthand from experts about the transformative impact of their efforts and learn how they amplify community voices to ensure equitable access to cancer care and support services. Don’t miss this powerful conversation on breaking barriers and fostering a future of health equity!

Beena Patel is a cancer survivor, holistic health and wellness coach, Oncology Physician Assistant turned yoga teacher and Reiki Healer. We discuss her inspired journey towards personal healing and transforming the lives of her clients, with stories about healing, attending to our spirits, and empowering people to find their voice and purpose.

Nigeria is an African country with a population of 200 million, yet it has only 90 oncologists, 3-5 radiation machines in service at any given time, and ten cancer-related clinical trials. Furthermore, there is limited cancer screening and little awareness of risk-reduction behaviors. As a result, more than 70% of Nigerians diagnosed with cancer present with late-stage disease; few have access to treatment. However, a group of young Africans is on a mission to change this paradigm. One of them is today’s podcast guest, Mr. Runcie Chidebe, a psychologist, a doctoral student in gerontology, and the founding executive director of Project PINK BLUE, a cancer nonprofit based in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital. In this thought-provoking conversation, Mr. Chidebe talks about cultural and ethnic stigma beliefs and their intersection with gender inequity, the impact of a Western lifestyle on Africans’ cancer risk, and why global health disparities are everyone’s problem. Listeners will leave with innovative and actionable steps to dismantle injustice in their communities and our global society.