Ever wondered how simple lifestyle changes can drastically reduce your cancer risk? On this episode of Cancer Care Connections, Cheryl sits down with Dr. Ligeng Tian from Virginia Oncology Associates to uncover the powerful role of healthy habits in cancer prevention. Dr. Tian shares practical advice on embracing a plant-based diet, incorporating whole grains, and steering clear of processed and red meats to lower cancer risk. We explore the benefits of high fiber intake, the importance of a colorful plate filled with fruits and vegetables, and the surprising power of foods in reducing cancer risk. Additionally, the conversation touches on how maintaining a healthy weight and tackling obesity can be key factors in reducing your cancer risk.

Dr. Tian explains the complex relationship between supplements, medications, and cancer prevention. We explore why no supplement should be taken for cancer prevention unless there's a genuine nutritional deficiency and examine the nuanced roles of Vitamin D, calcium, aspirin, NSAIDs, and Metformin. Understand the potential risks and benefits and discover the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before self-prescribing.

Gain practical health tips for cancer prevention, from avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol to seeking trustworthy medical advice. We encourage you to prioritize your health with actionable steps.

Finally, get a sneak peek into our next episode where Dr. Michael Miller will delve into the latest innovations in radiation oncology. This episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice you won't want to miss!

Dr. Tian is board-certified in Internal Medicine. She received her medical degree from Beijing Medical University, China, and her Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biology & Genetics from Weill Graduate School of Cornell University, New York. Tian completed her Internal Medicine Residency at Long Island Jewish Medical Center of Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, and her Medical Oncology/Hematology Fellowship at Yale Medical School, Connecticut.

During her time at Yale, Dr. Tian participated in several clinical research studies. Her studies showed that bone marrow findings correlate poorly with the disease activity in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). She also participated in phase I clinical trials in hematologic malignancies, as well as teaching at Yale Medical School. She is the author of numerous publications, abstracts, and book chapters on topics in Hematology and Oncology.

Dr. Tian is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Tian's particular clinical interests include providing personalized cancer care to patients with lung cancer and hematology.

In her free time, Dr. Tian enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and cooking.

Resources mentioned in this podcast

The American Cancer Society Prevention and Early Detection:

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

How can young women facing breast cancer preserve their dreams of motherhood? Discover the essential insights from Dr. Nina Balanchivadze of Virginia Oncology Associates as she shares her profound expertise in oncofertility and the critical importance of preserving ovarian function amidst cancer treatments. Dr. B delves into the rising trend of younger women being diagnosed with breast cancer and the unique challenges they encounter regarding fertility preservation. She offers a heartfelt discussion on the compassionate care needed to guide patients through their treatment and survivorship journey, ensuring their reproductive health remains a priority.

Uncover the latest breakthroughs in breast cancer treatment with Dr. B, highlighting the move towards more personalized therapies. These innovations boost survival rates and minimize side effects, allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life. Dr. B's insights ensure that while cancer may change lives, it doesn't define them, empowering women to continue thriving in their roles as mothers, partners, and professionals. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten and inspire, offering hope and practical advice for those navigating the complexities of breast cancer.

Dr. Nina Balanchivadze is passionate about caring for patients with cancer and providing personalized, state-of-the-art, compassionate care to all her patients. She specializes in the treatment of patients with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Dr. B has extensive experience in leadership and education, having gained experience in her role as core clinical faculty/Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at Grand Strand Medical Center, Myrtle Beach, SC, where she served as the Chief of Medicine for the 369-bed acute care hospital.

During her residency and fellowship, she presented her research work at numerous national and international conferences and has published many abstracts and manuscripts. She was recognized multiple times and has been presented with many Resident of the Year awards, and Teaching Attending Physician and Mentor of the Year awards. She was named Fellow of the Year at Henry Ford Cancer Institute and has won the Robert A. Chapman Outstanding Fellow Award two years in a row. Her research activities have been recognized many times with one of her projects securing first place in a hospital-wide resident/fellow research competition at the Henry Ford Medical Education Forum. In addition, Dr. Balanchivadze was granted multiple travel awards to present at national conferences.

On a national level, Dr. Balanchivadze served on the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Trainee Council, has been an active member of multiple committees, and has facilitated many different educational sessions. She is a Fellow of the American College of Medicine (ACP) and is an active member of ACP, American Medical Association, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and ASH.

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.

During this episode, we sat down with Dr. Devin Miller, a gynecologic oncologist with Virginia Oncology Associates. Our conversation was not only informative but also a call to action for women to become advocates for their health. Dr. Miller's dedication to her field is obvious as she discusses the complexities of fighting cancers unique to the female reproductive system and shares breakthroughs in treatment that are changing lives.

Learn why something as simple as quitting smoking or maintaining a healthy lifestyle can drastically reduce your cancer risks, and why your family history could be the key to unlocking your best defensive strategy. Dr. Miller's compassionate approach emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and the necessity of having a robust support system when facing a cancer diagnosis.

Join us for this enlightening discussion that not only sheds light on the advancements in gynecological oncology but also equips you with the knowledge to take control of your health journey.

Dr. Devin Miller is a native of Virginia Beach. She attended the College of William and Mary, earning a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Sciences. She received her medical degree at Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. She proceeded to clinical training at Yale New Haven Hospital for obstetrics and gynecology residency, where she served as chief resident. Dr. Miller completed her fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, NY, where she was recognized as an outstanding educator for resident physicians and medical students. While in fellowship, she received grant funding for her research from the Foundation for Women’s Cancer.

Dr. Miller treats patients with all forms of female cancers, including those of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, vulva, vagina, and cervix, as well as complex benign gynecologic conditions. As part of a multidisciplinary team, she works closely with pathologists, radiologists, radiation oncologists, and other physician specialists. This collaboration gives each patient a treatment plan tailored to their unique diagnosis and goals. As a gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Miller is trained in advanced surgical techniques, specializing in minimally invasive and robotic procedures that promote faster recovery and less hospitalization.

Resources mentioned in this podcast
Foundation for Women’s Cancer: https://foundationforwomenscancer.org/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.