MedInsights Unleashed

We are privileged to have Dr. Ari Rosenberg, MD, and Dr. Maha Elsebaie, MD, MSc, from the University of Chicago, join us to discuss groundbreaking research in neoadjuvant head and neck cancer treatment. This episode explores how circulating HPV DNA, measured through a simple blood test, is emerging as a powerful tool to guide therapy decisions, personalize treatment, and potentially reduce the need for aggressive surgery or radiation.

The discussion highlights early results from trials combining immunotherapy and chemotherapy before standard treatment, showing promising improvements in tumor response while reducing long-term side effects. This research is shaping...

Groundbreaking research presented at ASCO with Dr. Elinor Barsh, MD, and Dr. Jacob Keeling, MD, focuses on advances in immunotherapy for CTLA-4 resistant melanoma. This episode highlights the importance of recent progress, including the Phase I study of the antibody–drug conjugate ozuriftamab vedotin. Dr. Barsh and Dr. Keeling discuss new clinical trial data, evolving treatment pathways, and the significant reduction in mortality rates achieved with novel therapies. Their collaboration with the Sarah Cannon Research Institute underscores how innovative research can transform patient outcomes making melanoma more manageable despite its aggressive nature.

Dr. Sharlene Gill, MD, joins the MedInsights Unleashed podcast to discuss the Challenge Study's promising results on exercise in cancer care. Conducted over 17 years, the study revealed that colon cancer patients engaging in structured exercise post-treatment exhibited improved survival rates. The trial involved a comprehensive three-year program incorporating both in-person and virtual components, emphasizing physical activity alongside psychological support. Published in the New England Journal of Medicine (Structured Exercise after Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Colon Cancer) these findings could shift cancer treatment paradigms, advocating for the inclusion of formal exercise programs in post-chemotherapy care to enhance life expectancy and recovery...

In this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Dr. Ari Goldman, MD, FAAOS, and Lewis Collins, OPA-C, ATC, OTC, from the Northwell Health Orthopedic Trauma and Surgery Team, uncover the facts on knee replacements. The discussion kicks off with a detailed look at knee anatomy and the factors leading to knee replacements, such as arthritis and genetic predispositions. The episode delves into the importance of maintaining knee health through exercise and weight management. They also explore how alignment issues elsewhere in the body can impact knee integrity and the outcomes of replacement surgery. The episode wraps up with insights into dietary...

Professor Philip A. Philip, MD, PhD, FRCP, Professor of Medical Oncology at Wayne State University School of Medicine and the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, returns to the MedInsights Unleashed podcast discusses the intricate topic of neuroendocrine tumors(NETs), including their rarity, the non-aggressive nature of many cases, and their potential functional characteristics. Prof. Phillip clarifies common misconceptions, advising listeners on the crucial role of accurate diagnosis and the use of grading systems to assess tumor aggressiveness. This episode not only benefits patients seeking understanding of their condition but also serves as a valuable resource for healthcare professionals dealing with...

In this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Dr. Kriti Dhamija, MD, a second-year resident in the Department of Internal Medicine at Allegheny Health Network, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, challenges the misconceptions around palliative care, particularly in pancreatic cancer. She explains why palliative care should begin at diagnosis, not at the end of life, and how early referral can reduce ER visits, hospital stays, and ICU admissions. Dr. Dhamija also explores the role of multidisciplinary teams, tackles persistent stigmas, and highlights how even resource-limited settings can improve care using team-based approaches and free guidelines. A must-listen for clinicians, patients, caregivers, and students...

In a recent episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Dr. Danny Rischin, MD, medical oncologist/clinician researcher at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Professor, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, discusses the groundbreaking C-POST study focused on cutaneous squamous cell cancer. By utilizing the immunotherapy drug, cemiplimab, the study achieves a 68% reduction in the risk of recurrence, marking a significant step forward in adjuvant cancer therapy. Dr. Rischin explains the study's meticulous approach to identifying high-risk patients and its impressive 87% disease-free survival rate at two years. He also discusses the role of multidisciplinary care in effectively managing...

In this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Professor Philip A. Philip, MD, PhD, FRCP, Professor of Medical Oncology at Wayne State University School of Medicine and the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, shares vital insights into one of the most challenging cancers to detect and treat—pancreatic cancer. He highlights the urgent need for early recognition of symptoms and the growing understanding of genetic risks, including BRCA mutations and family history.

The discussion also covers emerging research into KRAS, common DNA mutation in tumors that is playing a major role in changing future targeted treatment strategies. With perspectives from bot...

In this hard-hitting episode of MedInsights Unleashed, we tackle the escalating crisis of drug-related medical emergencies with guest speaker Eric Prach, MAS, BPsych—an EMT and police officer on the frontlines. This episode uncovers the harsh realities of fentanyl-laced overdoses, the rise of synthetic additives like Xylazine, and the increasing concern over Kratom use among young individuals.

Eric provides critical insights into the life-saving role of Narcan, the challenges EMS teams face in overdose response, and the alarming prevalence of drug use in schools. As volunteer EMT numbers decline, hybrid staffing models are becoming the new norm. Th...

Episode Summary:

This is the second episode in our series on colorectal cancer. In this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, we sit down with Prof. Paulo Hoff, MD, PhD, from the University of São Paulo, Brazil, to discuss the latest developments in colorectal cancer treatment. With cases increasing, especially among younger adults, the conversation underscores the importance of early screening and detection. Prof. Hoff explains how tumor location—right vs. left side—affects treatment strategies, the role of genetic markers in guiding decisions, and how immunotherapy is shaping new treatment options. Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of mo...

Osteoporosis is often viewed as a women’s disease, but in this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Dr. Tom Forfa, MBBS, reveals why men are also at serious risk. A retired physician and osteoporosis educator from Queensland, Australia, Dr. Forfa shares his personal journey, from multiple fractures to a delayed diagnosis, highlighting the need for early screening and awareness.

This episode uncovers misconceptions, risk factors, and treatment options, including an unexpected dietary ally—prunes. Recent research suggests that daily prune consumption may help maintain bone density and support fracture healing, making it a promising nonpharmacologic approach to osteoporosis prev...

In this latest episode of MedInsights Unleashed, we are delighted to welcome Dr. Paulo Hoff, MD, PhD, Professor of Clinical Oncology at the Department of Radiology and Oncology, University of São Paulo. Dr. Hoff discusses the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in younger populations, highlighting key risk factors including poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity. He emphasizes the critical importance of beginning regular screening at age 45.

The discussion covers the complete treatment journey, from initial diagnosis through staging—which determines both local and distant tumor spread—to help create optimal treatment plans. Dr. Hoff explains that some...

In this MedInsights Unleashed episode, Dr. Christine Simmons, MD, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC (University of British Columbia) and specialist in breast cancer and sarcoma, provides an in-depth exploration of the breast cancer journey, focusing on diagnosis, staging, and cutting-edge treatments for triple-negative breast cancer. She discusses the critical role of subtype differentiation and personalized care, with a particular emphasis on advancements in managing triple-negative breast cancer. Highlighting the transformative potential of immunotherapy, Dr. Simmons likens it to removing the "invisibility cloak" from cancer cells, enabling the immune system to target them effectively. Balancing innovation...

In this MedInsights Unleashed episode, Dr Christine Simmons MD, Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at UBC (University of British Columbia) and specialist in breast cancer and sarcoma, discusses breast cancer awareness, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings for early detection—especially post-COVID-19, as screening rates have significantly dropped. Early detection leads to better outcomes and less aggressive treatments. Dr. Simmons highlights that breast cancer is not exclusively a women’s issue, as men can develop it too. Additionally, she underscores the role of genetics, such as BRCA mutations, in increasing breast cancer risk. Preventative strategies like regular exer...

Elen Baloyan, MD, Oncology Fellow at Yeolyan Hematology and Oncology Center in Yerevan, Armenia, shares her insightful journey in this MedInsights Unleashed podcast episode. She addresses the financial toxicity affecting both doctors and patients in Armenia, which often leads to treatment refusals and late diagnoses due to high costs. Despite government efforts to support cancer care, the financial burden remains significant. Elen discusses the future of clinical trial development and the hope it brings to patients through the Immune Oncology Research Institute in Armenia. Elen's diverse roles, from medical practice to managing editor at OncoDaily, highlight pressing issues and...

In this episode of MedInsights Unleashed, Dr. Oliver Bathe MD FRCSC, Professor of Surgery and Oncology University, CEO Qualisure Diagnostics Inc. discusses his journey from surgical oncology to pioneering precision cancer care. He delves into the role of machine learning in analyzing vast genomic databases to personalize treatment and improve patient outcomes. Dr. Bathe shares personal insights, emphasizing the importance of tailoring cancer therapies to individual patients. The podcast explores the creation and application of diagnostic tests, like those for thyroid cancer, which offer more targeted treatment options and hope for patients confronting a complex healthcare landscape.

 Q...

In this MedInsights Unleashed episode, Dr. Ari Rosenberg from University Chicago Medical Center, delves into the complexities and advancements in the treatment of head and neck cancers. Despite the recurrence and resistance these cancers often develop, immunotherapy has marked a significant breakthrough, especially in releasing the immune system's brakes. Although its introduction in early-stage cancer remains elusive, ongoing trials indicate potential when combined with chemotherapy pre-treatment. Dr. Rosenberg highlights innovative therapies, including targeting HPV-specific cancer proteins and antibody drug conjugates, which hold promise in enhancing treatment efficacy. These cutting-edge strategies aim to outmaneuver resistant cancer cells, providing hope for...

In this episode Professor Philippe Merle explains the interplay between chronic liver conditions and the development of HCC. The conversation highlights the significance of early diagnosis and consistent patient monitoring to catch the disease in its nascent stages. Professor Merle also discusses the evolving landscape of HCC treatments, including innovative therapies and the benefits of a multidisciplinary medical team in managing complex cases.

In this episode of Med Insights Unleashed, hosts Zee and John welcome Michael Staehler MD Ph.D, Professor of Urology at the University of Munich and Head the Interdisciplinary Center for Renal Tumors at Ludwig-Maximilian University, Munich. to discuss renal cell carcinoma. He explains how patient selection and managing side effects, including sexual dysfunction, play critical roles in effective cancer treatment. The conversation also delves into the balance between drug efficacy and patient experience, highlighting the importance of patient communication and personalized care in clinical practice.

In this episode, hosts Zahra and John welcome Dr. Ari Rosenberg from University Chicago Medical Center, to explore head and neck cancer, a disease affecting nearly 900,000 people annually worldwide. Dr. Rosenberg delves into the complexities of diagnosing and treating cancers in the head and neck region. The discussion highlights the significant role of HPV, particularly in oropharynx cancers, and the promising impact of HPV vaccination. Emphasizing early detection, Dr. Rosenberg also shares insights on the importance of regular dental check-ups in identifying potential cancerous lesions.

In this episode, Professor Escudier from Gustave Roussy, a major cancer center in Paris France, discusses the advances in kidney cancer treatment over the past 30 years. Professor Escudier discusses the significance of the Keynote 564, the first positive trial in adjuvant renal cell cancer. He explains how these findings impact first-line treatment decisions for metastatic kidney cancer. He discusses the differences between cure, complete response and the role of the MDT, clinical and pathological biomarkers in treatment selection. Professor Escudier especially covers the questions that he patient should their doctors concerning their renal cancer and defines the differences between Clear...

In this episode, Dr. Ariel Goldman and Lewis Collins discuss the advancements in hip fracture care. They highlight the urgent need for timely surgical intervention and reveal how these practices have successfully reduced complications and mortality rates. Focusing on the aging population and osteoporosis, they stress the importance of understanding risk factors and prevention. They compare exercise forms, such as Tai Chi, to other physical therapy methods in preventing hip fractures and emphasize the benefits of weight-bearing exercises. Tai Chi, in particular, is highlighted for its role in increasing strength and bone density, contributing to early treatment success. This...

In this episode, Prof Galle, a hepatologist and Professor of Medicine at University Medical Center Mainz, Germany, has an in-depth conversation with co-hosts Zee and John of MedInsights Unleashed on the late breaking data, CM9DW, presented at ASCO 2024. The episode covers:

- **Cutting-Edge Therapies:** Explore the transformation in HCC treatment from surgery and transplantation to the latest immunotherapies. Discover how IV therapies demonstrate superior efficacy and manageable toxicity compared to oral options.

- **Checkmate 9DW Trial Insights:** Get an in-depth analysis of the pivotal Checkmate 9DW trial, comparing immunotherapy agents (Nivolumab and Ipilimumab) with t...

Professor Markus Peck-Radosavljevic, MD MBA, is Professor of Medicine and Chairman at the Department of Internal Medicine & Gastroenterology (IMuG) at Klinikum Klagenfurt in Austria. A renowned gastroenterologist and hepatologist, he discusses the importance of understanding risks in medical treatments, clear communication, and considering patient preferences in treatment decisions. Professor Peck addresses challenges in patient selection for clinical trials and the impact on access to innovative treatments. Professor Peck also emphasizes the role of second opinions, the importance of trust in the patient-physician relationship, and the expertise required for state-of-the-art care. He touches on the complexities of information overload and...

This podcast episode focuses on radioembolization and its implications in liver cancer treatment. Professor Edward Kim, Director of Interventional Oncology at Mount Sinai Health Systems, provides insights into the use of radioembolization, a minimally invasive procedure that delivers radiation directly to liver tumors. He discusses its utilization across different stages of primary liver cancer, from curative intent therapies in early stages to palliative care in advanced stages. Professor Kim emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in liver cancer care, where different specialists collaborate to determine the best treatment options for each patient. The episode also touches on the...

This transcript explores the challenges faced by both physicians and patients in accessing treatment.

Professor Vogel discusses the differences in treatment access between Germany and Canada, having experienced both healthcare systems. He highlights the restrictive criteria for liver transplantation in Germany and the limited availability of certain therapies in Canada, particularly for rare cancers like cholangiocarcinoma. The discussion delves into the ethical implications of withholding potentially life-saving treatments and the need for a more streamlined and patient-centered approach to reimbursement. Financial toxicity is also examined, as well as the role of patient advocacy in driving change and...

MedInsights Unleashed is an exciting new podcast aimed at providing valuable information and insights for patients and healthcare professionals.

In this first episode, hosts Zahra and John are joined by Professor Arndt Vogel to discuss key data from the adjuvant setting of liver cancer. They talk about the challenges of liver cancer treatment, the high mortality rate associated with the disease, and the progress made in recent years.

Professor Vogel provides an overview of the IMbrave 050 study, which was designed to investigate the efficacy of an adjuvant treatment combination of the checkpoint inhibitor atezolizumab and...

Trailer for MedInsights Unleashed with Zee and John, starring co-hosts Zahra Ramji (aka Zee) and John Collins

In their debut episode, John Collins and Zahra, also known as Zee, introduce themselves and their backgrounds in the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare. With a focus on filling the void between physicians and patients, they share their passion for improving patient outcomes, particularly in underserved areas like liver cancer. John draws parallels from his experience as an EMS first responder, emphasizing the importance of rapid knowledge transfer in saving lives. Zahra discusses her work in clinical trials and oncology, highlighting the desire to make a tangible difference in patients' lives. Together, they embark on a journey through the MedInsights...