Experience the advances in cancer treatment with Dr. Michael Miller from Virginia Oncology Associates as he shares his inspiring journey into the field of medicine, rooted in the influence of his sister’s nursing career. Discover the game-changing technologies revolutionizing radiation oncology, such as the TrueBeam Varian Linear Accelerator. Dr. Miller provides an in-depth look at how these advancements are enhancing precision and improving patient outcomes, laying the groundwork for a new era in cancer care.

Explore the transformative strides in stereotactic radiation therapy, moving beyond traditional gamma knife treatments to cutting-edge techniques that prioritize patient comfort and accuracy. Learn how sophisticated machines like the Varian TrueBeam are revolutionizing lung tumor treatments using gating techniques that synchronize radiation delivery with patient breathing. This segment underscores the versatility and significance of stereotactic radiation therapy in modern medical practice, expanding its applications far beyond brain treatments.

Lastly, dive into the captivating realm of radiopharmaceuticals and brachytherapy. Dr. Miller discusses the evolution of treatments like Radium-223 and Lutetium-177 for prostate cancer and their potential to target other cancers. Get insights on HDR brachytherapy, which delivers high-dose radiation directly to tumors with minimal patient discomfort, particularly for skin cancer. Plus, get a sneak peek into our upcoming episode with Dr. Jacob Hall, who will explore the use of radiation therapy beyond cancer, including its applications for osteoarthritis. Join us on this enlightening journey through the forefront of radiation oncology!

Dr. Michael Miller graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh with a B.S. in Pharmacy. He received his doctorate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine where he was valedictorian and a member of the Sigma Alpha Omicron Honor Society. He completed a surgical internship at the Doctor's Hospital/Ohio Health.

His residency was completed at Eastern Virginia Medical School where he was Chief Resident. Dr. Miller was awarded the 2005 American Brachytherapy Society Prostate Fellowship Award at the Seattle Prostate Institute. Dr. Miller is board-certified by the American Board of Radiology as a specialist in Radiation Oncology.

Dr. Miller resides in Virginia Beach with his wife and sons and enjoys outdoor sports and other fitness activities.

Resources mentioned in this podcast

National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/

American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org/

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN): https://www.nccn.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.

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.