Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes shares some personal news.

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Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes shares some personal news.
Subscribe to Cancer Straight Talk to get notified when new episodes air.

A Message to Our Listeners

Integrative vs. Alternative medicine

Which integrative therapies are right for me?

Do these therapies actually treat/kill cancer?

The very real benefits of human connection

Ivermectin

Cannabis oil and Castor oil

Vitamin C

Turmeric

Medicinal mushrooms

Ashwagandha

Traditional Chinese medicine

The dangers of "Why not try?"

Resources: herbs, meditation, yoga, music, etc

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with Dr. Jun Mao, Chief of MSK’s Integrative Medicine Service, and Jason Hou, herbalist and acupuncturist at MSK, to break down the facts about alternative medicine—an approach that combines conventional cancer treatments like surgery, radiation, chemo, immunotherapy and targeted treatments, with holistic therapies like acupuncture, mindfulness, natural herbs and supplements. They tackle common misconceptions about alternative medicine, explaining what the science says, what’s safe, and what to avoid. Offering guidance on how these natural therapies can complement other cancer treatments – and how to recognize misleading claims – this episode empowers patients and caregivers with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their cancer care and the use of alternative therapies. 

Resources:
MSK's "About Herbs" Database
MSK's Meditation Library
MSK's Integrative Medicine at Home Program

Episode Chapters:
2:05 - Integrative vs. Alternative medicine
3:14 - Which integrative therapies are right for me?
6:29 - Do these therapies actually treat/kill cancer?
7:59 - The very real benefits of human connection
9:36 - Ivermectin
10:18 - Cannabis oil and Castor oil
11:55 - Vitamin C
13:53 - Turmeric
14:30 - Medicinal mushrooms
14:59 - Ashwagandha
15:42 - Traditional Chinese medicine
18:25 - The dangers of "Why not try?"
21:49 - Resources: herbs, meditation, yoga, music, etc.

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/jun-mao?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">Dr. Jun Mao</a>, Chief of MSK&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">Integrative Medicine Service</a>, and Jason Hou, herbalist and acupuncturist at MSK, to break down the facts about alternative medicine&mdash;an approach that combines <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/cancer-treatments?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">conventional cancer treatments</a> like surgery, radiation, chemo, immunotherapy and targeted treatments, with <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/mind-body?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">holistic therapies</a> like <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/therapies/acupuncture?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">acupuncture</a>, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/therapies/meditation?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">mindfulness</a>, natural <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">herbs and supplements</a>. They tackle common misconceptions about alternative medicine, explaining what the science says, what&rsquo;s safe, and what to avoid. Offering guidance on how these natural therapies can complement other cancer treatments &ndash; and how to recognize misleading claims &ndash; this episode empowers patients and caregivers with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their cancer care and the use of alternative therapies.&nbsp;
Resources: <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs/search?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">MSK's "About Herbs" Database</a> <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/multimedia/meditations?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">MSK's Meditation Library</a> <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/membership?utm_source=Various&amp;utm_medium=Various&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=Podcast+Ep.+60+description&amp;utm_campaign=Podcast+2025">MSK's Integrative Medicine at Home Program</a>
Episode Chapters: 2:05 - Integrative vs. Alternative medicine 3:14 - Which integrative therapies are right for me? 6:29 - Do these therapies actually treat/kill cancer? 7:59 - The very real benefits of human connection 9:36 - Ivermectin 10:18 - Cannabis oil and Castor oil 11:55 - Vitamin C 13:53 - Turmeric 14:30 - Medicinal mushrooms 14:59 - Ashwagandha 15:42 - Traditional Chinese medicine 18:25 - The dangers of "Why not try?" 21:49 - Resources: herbs, meditation, yoga, music, etc.

Alternative Cancer Treatments: The Science vs. The Hype

Timeline from diagnosis to preservation

Why fertility preservation is recommended

Preservation options for women

Egg retrieval success rates

Testing embryos for cancer-causing genes

Breast cancer patient testimonial

Embryos or eggs: Which is better to freeze

Testicular cancer patient testimonial

Preservation options and timeline for men

Will the preservation process delay treatment

Will the preservation process worsen my cancer

Preservation options during/after treatment

Pregnancy success rates for various methods

Cost of sperm banking

Cost of egg and embryo freezing

Insurance and financial grants

It takes a village

In this empowering episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks to a panel of onco-fertility experts about preserving fertility during cancer treatment. MSK oncologists Dr. Julia Brockway-Marchello and Dr. José Flores discuss the timing and options for patients who want to have biological children without delaying life-saving cancer treatments, like radiation and chemotherapy. Dr. Lucky Sekhon, reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist at RMA of New York, explains the safety, success rates, and evolving technologies used to freeze eggs and bank sperm. A nurse from MSK's fertility preservation program, Lauren Martino, explains what patients should know about the cost and the importance of early referrals. Emotional stories from cancer survivors, new parents, and patient advocates offer hope to anyone, man or woman, who faces cancer and wants to have a baby someday.

Episode Chapters:
2:26 - Timeline from diagnosis to preservation
3:17 - Why fertility preservation is recommended
4:27 - Preservation options for women
5:58 - Egg retrieval success rates
7:31 - Testing embryos for cancer-causing genes
9:12 - Breast cancer patient testimonial
10:23 - Embryos or eggs: Which is better to freeze?
12:39 - Testicular cancer patient testimonial
13:26 - Preservation options and timeline for men
14:43 - Will the preservation process delay my treatment?
16:14 - Will the preservation process worsen my cancer?
17:25 - Preservation options during/after treatment
19:25 - Pregnancy success rates for various methods
22:40 - Cost of sperm banking
23:16 - Cost of egg and embryo freezing
24:41 - Insurance and financial grants
28:23 - It takes a village

In this empowering episode, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> speaks to a panel of onco-fertility experts about <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/sexual-health-fertility/fertility">preserving fertility</a> during cancer treatment. MSK oncologists <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/julia-brockway-marchello">Dr. Julia Brockway-Marchello</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/jose-flores">Dr. Jos&eacute; Flores</a> discuss the timing and options for patients who want to have biological children without delaying life-saving cancer treatments, like <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/cancer-treatments/radiation-therapy">radiation</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/cancer-treatments/chemotherapy">chemotherapy</a>. Dr. Lucky Sekhon, reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist at RMA of New York, explains the safety, success rates, and evolving technologies used to <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/fertility-preservation-females-starting-treatment">freeze eggs</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/sperm-banking">bank sperm</a>. A nurse from MSK's fertility preservation program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mskcc.org/profile/lauren-martino">Lauren Martino</a>, explains what patients should know about the cost and the importance of early referrals. Emotional stories from cancer survivors, new parents, and patient advocates offer hope to anyone, man or woman, who faces cancer and wants to have a baby someday.
Episode Chapters: 2:26 - Timeline from diagnosis to preservation 3:17 - Why fertility preservation is recommended 4:27 - Preservation options for women 5:58 - Egg retrieval success rates 7:31 - Testing embryos for cancer-causing genes 9:12 - Breast cancer patient testimonial 10:23 - Embryos or eggs: Which is better to freeze? 12:39 - Testicular cancer patient testimonial 13:26 - Preservation options and timeline for men 14:43 - Will the preservation process delay my treatment? 16:14 - Will the preservation process worsen my cancer? 17:25 - Preservation options during/after treatment 19:25 - Pregnancy success rates for various methods 22:40 - Cost of sperm banking 23:16 - Cost of egg and embryo freezing 24:41 - Insurance and financial grants 28:23 - It takes a village

Preserving Fertility During Cancer Treatment: Options, Costs and Success Rates

A Marathon Bond

2000 Miles Apart, United by a Breakthrough

Showing Up for the Little Things

Love After Loss, With Help from Two Angels

More Time, More Memories: Marley’s Gift

A Village for Ryan: MSK’s Creative Care

The Healing Touch: Cecilia’s Miracle

Cancer Hits Home for Dr. Reidy

The Gift of Meaning: Michael's "Revelation"

In this special episode, MSK patients, caregivers and clinicians share the miracles they’ve witnessed, even in the darkest of times. From life-saving medicine to gratitude for caregivers and a surprise romance, these stories remind us of the power of human connection.

Episode Chapters:
1:15 - A Marathon Bond
5:09 - 2000 Miles Apart, United by a Breakthrough
7:55 - Showing Up for the Little Things
9:42 - Love After Loss, With Help from Two Angels
13:10 - More Time, More Memories: Marley’s Gift
14:57 - A Village for Ryan: MSK’s Creative Care
19:39 - The Healing Touch: Cecilia’s Miracle
22:13 - Cancer Hits Home for Dr. Reidy
23:28 - The Gift of Meaning: Michael's "Revelation"

In this special episode, MSK patients, caregivers and clinicians share the miracles they&rsquo;ve witnessed, even in the darkest of times. From life-saving medicine to gratitude for caregivers and a surprise romance, these stories remind us of the power of human connection.
Episode Chapters: 1:15 - A Marathon Bond 5:09 - 2000 Miles Apart, United by a Breakthrough 7:55 - Showing Up for the Little Things 9:42 - Love After Loss, With Help from Two Angels 13:10 - More Time, More Memories: Marley&rsquo;s Gift 14:57 - A Village for Ryan: MSK&rsquo;s Creative Care 19:39 - The Healing Touch: Cecilia&rsquo;s Miracle 22:13 - Cancer Hits Home for Dr. Reidy 23:28 - The Gift of Meaning: Michael's "Revelation"

Miracles on York Avenue: Inspiring Stories from MSK Patients & Staff 

Why use some treatments over others?

Types of breast cancers & their treatments

Patient testimonial on self-advocacy

Length of treatment & why it can change

Quality of life advice during treatment

Mitigating chemotherapy side effects

Maintaining sexual health during treatment

When is taking estrogen a bad idea?

Quality of life concerns & when to switch meds

Mitigating hormone therapy side effects

Patient testimonial on finishing treatment

Managing fear & life after treatment

Mitigating long-term side effects of treatment

Patient testimonial on fear of recurrence

Why scanning for recurrence isn't recommended

The reason for all of this: live your life!

In this episode (part 2 of 2), Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with a team of MSK experts to explore the complexities of breast cancer treatment and life afterwards. Breast medical oncologist Dr. Julia Brockway-Marchello and nurse Jenna Galinsky explain chemotherapy and hormone therapy, their potential side effects, and ways they can be alleviated. Nurse Adriana Olivo discusses how survivors can cope with emotional challenges, like the fear cancer will come back. Breast cancer patients and survivors offer advice on asking for support while navigating life during and after cancer treatment.

Listen to episode 52 "Breast Cancer Treatment Part 1: Surgery, Radiation and Reconstruction"

Listen to episode 39 "How to Manage Side Effects During Cancer Treatment: Fatigue, Hair Loss, Skin Care and More"

Listen to episode 12 "A Woman's Guide to Sex and Cancer"

Episode Chapters:
1:44 - Why use some treatments over others?
2:55 - Types of breast cancers & their treatments
4:50 - Patient testimonial on self-advocacy
6:02 - Length of treatment & why it can change
7:38 - Quality of life advice during treatment
9:10 - Mitigating chemotherapy side effects
9:57 - Maintaining sexual health during treatment
10:46 - When is taking estrogen a bad idea?
13:07 - Quality of life concerns & when to switch meds
16:16 - Mitigating hormone therapy side effects
17:32 - Patient testimonial on finishing treatment
18:22 - Managing fear & life after treatment
19:34 - Mitigating long-term side effects of treatment
21:24 - Patient testimonial on fear of recurrence
22:49 - Why scanning for recurrence isn't recommended
26:25 - The reason for all this: live your life!

In this episode (part 2 of 2), <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> speaks with a team of MSK experts to explore the complexities of <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-conditions/breast-cancer/treatment">breast cancer treatment</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-conditions/breast-cancer/continued-care">life afterwards</a>. Breast medical oncologist <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/julia-brockway-marchello">Dr. Julia Brockway-Marchello</a> and nurse Jenna Galinsky explain chemotherapy and hormone therapy, their potential side effects, and ways they can be alleviated. Nurse Adriana Olivo discusses how survivors can cope with emotional challenges, like the fear cancer will come back. Breast cancer patients and survivors offer advice on asking for support while navigating life during and after cancer treatment.
Listen to episode 52 <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/videos/breast-cancer-treatment-part-1-understanding-surgery-radiation-and-reconstruction">"Breast Cancer Treatment Part 1: Surgery, Radiation and Reconstruction"</a>
Listen to episode 39 "<a href="https://www.mskcc.org/videos/how-to-manage-side-effects-during-cancer-treatment-fatigue-hair-loss-skin-care-and-more">How to Manage Side Effects During Cancer Treatment: Fatigue, Hair Loss, Skin Care and More"</a>
Listen to episode 12 <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/videos/woman-guide-sex-and-cancer">"A Woman's Guide to Sex and Cancer"</a>
Episode Chapters: 1:44 - Why use some treatments over others? 2:55 - Types of breast cancers &amp; their treatments 4:50 - Patient testimonial on self-advocacy 6:02 - Length of treatment &amp; why it can change 7:38 - Quality of life advice during treatment 9:10 - Mitigating chemotherapy side effects 9:57 - Maintaining sexual health during treatment 10:46 - When is taking estrogen a bad idea? 13:07 - Quality of life concerns &amp; when to switch meds 16:16 - Mitigating hormone therapy side effects 17:32 - Patient testimonial on finishing treatment 18:22 - Managing fear &amp; life after treatment 19:34 - Mitigating long-term side effects of treatment 21:24 - Patient testimonial on fear of recurrence 22:49 - Why scanning for recurrence isn't recommended 26:25 - The reason for all this: live your life!

Breast Cancer Treatment Part 2: Chemo, Hormone Therapy and Life After Treatment

Should I tell my child I have cancer?

Should it be one conversation or more?

Advice from a mother with cancer

Should I put on a brave face? What if I cry?

How do I explain side effects like hair loss?

Advice from a mother who lost her hair

How do I tell my child I may die from cancer?

Advice from a mother with months to live

Age-appropriate guidelines for talking to kids

Advice from a father on age-appropriate talks

Advice from a daughter on having a sick mother

What if my teenager doesn't respond well?

Advice for the surviving parent

Resources to help parents with cancer

A note on trusting your child

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with two MSK clinical social workers, Hadley Maya and Natalie Santos, about how parents who've been diagnosed with cancer can talk to their children. They offer compassionate guidance on being honest with kids to prepare them for changes in family routines or treatment side effects, helping them feel more secure during a difficult time. With practical tips and real-life examples, this conversation offers advice for parents navigating one of the hardest discussions imaginable, while making sure their children feel supported and can continue being kids.

Learn more about MSK’s Talking with Children about Cancer program

Additional resources mentioned in this episode:
Red Door Community
CancerCare
Bright Spot Network

Episode Chapters:
1:14 - Should I tell my child I have cancer?
3:01 - Should it be one conversation or more?
4:16 - Advice from a mother with cancer
5:27 - Should I put on a brave face? What if I cry?
8:30 - How do I explain side effects like hair loss?
10:36 - Advice from a mother who lost her hair
11:43 - How do I tell my child I may die from cancer?
14:24 - Advice from a mother with months to live
16:02 - Age-appropriate guidelines for talking to kids
21:30 - Advice from a father on age-appropriate talks
22:39 - Advice from a daughter on having a sick mother
24:32 - What if my teenager doesn't respond well?
25:32 - Advice for the surviving parent
26:17 - Resources to help parents with cancer
28:09 - A note on trusting your child

In this episode, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> speaks with two MSK clinical social workers, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/profile/hadley-maya">Hadley Maya</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/profile/natalie-ishak">Natalie Santos</a>, about how parents who've been diagnosed with cancer can talk to their children. They offer <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/experience/patient-support/counseling/talking-with-children">compassionate guidance</a> on being honest with kids to prepare them for changes in family routines or treatment side effects, helping them feel more secure during a difficult time. With practical tips and real-life examples, this conversation offers advice for parents navigating one of the hardest discussions imaginable, while making sure their children feel supported and can continue being kids.
Learn more about <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/experience/patient-support/counseling/talking-with-children">MSK’s Talking with Children about Cancer program</a>
Additional resources mentioned in this episode: <a href="https://reddoorcommunity.org/">Red Door Community</a> <a href="https://www.cancercare.org/">CancerCare</a> <a href="https://www.brightspotnetwork.org/">Bright Spot Network</a>
Episode Chapters: 1:14 - Should I tell my child I have cancer? 3:01 - Should it be one conversation or more? 4:16 - Advice from a mother with cancer 5:27 - Should I put on a brave face? What if I cry? 8:30 - How do I explain side effects like hair loss? 10:36 - Advice from a mother who lost her hair 11:43 - How do I tell my child I may die from cancer? 14:24 - Advice from a mother with months to live 16:02 - Age-appropriate guidelines for talking to kids 21:30 - Advice from a father on age-appropriate talks 22:39 - Advice from a daughter on having a sick mother 24:32 - What if my teenager doesn't respond well? 25:32 - Advice for the surviving parent 26:17 - Resources to help parents with cancer 28:09 - A note on trusting your child

How to Talk to Children about Cancer

In utero and early life exposures

Microbiome risk factors

Environmental chemicals

Cross-generational research methods

Are young adult cancers unique on a cell level

Moving past the "smoking gun" mindset

What is the exposome and why is it promising?

Who's responsible for monitoring risk factors?

Updating screening guidelines

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with MSK physician-scientist Dr. Karuna Ganesh and epidemiologist Dr. Caitlin Murphy about the troubling rise in cancer rates among younger generations, specifically people born in the 1980s (Gen X) and 1990s (Millennials). The latest research suggests prenatal exposures, environmental toxins, and various lifestyle factors may be contributing to the alarming trend of young people getting cancer earlier in their lives than previous generations. These insights could reshape our understanding of cancer risk and impact our approach to screening and treatment in the future.

Learn more about how MSK is finding solutions through the Lisa and Scott Stuart Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers and MSK’s Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer

Episode Chapters:
2:01 - In utero and early life exposures
5:38 - Microbiome risk factors
8:15 - Environmental chemicals
9:56 - Cross-generational research methods
11:40 - Are young adult cancers unique on a cellular level?
14:02 - Moving past the "smoking gun" mindset
15:37 - What is the exposome and why is it promising?
17:01 - Who's responsible for monitoring risk factors?
20:19 - Updating screening guidelines

In this episode, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> speaks with MSK physician-scientist <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/research/ski/labs/karuna-ganesh">Dr. Karuna Ganesh</a> and epidemiologist Dr. Caitlin Murphy about the troubling rise in cancer rates among younger generations, specifically people born in the 1980s (Gen X) and 1990s (Millennials). The latest research suggests prenatal exposures, environmental toxins, and various lifestyle factors may be contributing to the alarming trend of young people getting cancer earlier in their lives than previous generations. These insights could reshape our understanding of cancer risk and impact our approach to screening and treatment in the future.
Learn more about how MSK is finding solutions through the <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/experience/patient-support/lisa-and-scott-stuart-center-adolescent-and-young-adult-cancers-msk">Lisa and Scott Stuart Center for Adolescent and Young Adult Cancers </a>and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/colorectal/center-for-young-onset-colorectal-gastrointestinal-cancer">MSK’s Center for Young Onset Colorectal and Gastrointestinal Cancer</a>
Episode Chapters: 2:01 - In utero and early life exposures 5:38 - Microbiome risk factors 8:15 - Environmental chemicals 9:56 - Cross-generational research methods 11:40 - Are young adult cancers unique on a cellular level? 14:02 - Moving past the "smoking gun" mindset 15:37 - What is the exposome and why is it promising? 17:01 - Who's responsible for monitoring risk factors? 20:19 - Updating screening guidelines

What's Causing Cancer Rates to Rise in Gen X and Millennials?

How do these drugs cause weight loss?

What cancers could these drugs help prevent?

How exactly do they prevent cancer?

Should people with cancer take these drugs?

What happens when you stop taking them?

Potential side effects

Limitations of recent study and breast cancer

3 lifestyle tips to prevent and treat cancer

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes sits down with MSK’s Dr. Neil Iyengar, a nationally recognized expert on the relationship between obesity, metabolic health, and cancer. Together, they discuss the intriguing connection between a new class of weight loss drugs, called GLP-1 agonists, and cancer risk reduction. They explore how medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and others, which were originally designed for diabetes, are not only effective for weight loss but may also lower the risk of developing obesity-related cancers. They explain how those drugs work within the body to deliver potential benefits, the limitations of current studies, and what weight loss drugs mean for both cancer prevention and treatment.

Episode Chapters:
1:35 - How do these drugs cause weight loss?
3:08 - What cancers could these drugs help prevent?
4:29 - How exactly do they prevent cancer?
6:10 - Should people with cancer take these drugs?
7:42 - What happens when you stop taking them?
10:56 - Potential side effects
12:25 - Limitations of recent study and breast cancer prevention
14:36 - 3 lifestyle tips to prevent and treat cancer

In this episode, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> sits down with MSK’s <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/neil-iyengar">Dr. Neil Iyengar</a>, a nationally recognized expert on the relationship between obesity, metabolic health, and cancer. Together, they discuss the intriguing connection between a new class of weight loss drugs, called GLP-1 agonists, and cancer risk reduction. They explore how medications like <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/medications/adult/semaglutide">Ozempic, Wegovy,</a> Mounjaro and others, which were originally designed for diabetes, are not only effective for weight loss but may also lower the risk of developing obesity-related cancers. They explain how those drugs work within the body to deliver potential benefits, the limitations of current studies, and what weight loss drugs mean for both cancer prevention and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/cancer-treatments">treatment</a>.
Episode Chapters: 1:35 - How do these drugs cause weight loss? 3:08 - What cancers could these drugs help prevent? 4:29 - How exactly do they prevent cancer? 6:10 - Should people with cancer take these drugs? 7:42 - What happens when you stop taking them? 10:56 - Potential side effects 12:25 - Limitations of recent study and breast cancer prevention 14:36 - 3 lifestyle tips to prevent and treat cancer

Could Popular Weight Loss Drugs Help Prevent Cancer?

Types of skin cancer

Who's most at risk?

Warning signs

What darker skin populations need to know

Sun protection myths and tips

In this episode, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes is joined by Dr. Erica Lee, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at MSK, to discuss misconceptions around who can get skin cancer, how it presents on different skin types, and practical sun safety tips to help prevent skin cancer. They break down the different types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. They also hear from Jocelyn, a Hispanic melanoma survivor who shares her surprise of being diagnosed with melanoma despite her Hispanic background, emphasizing the importance of routine skin checks for people of all skin types.

Episode Chapters:
1:30 - Types of skin cancer
4:39 - Who's most at risk?
7:13 - Warning signs to look out for
10:25 - What darker skin populations need to know
13:25 - Sun protection myths and tips

In this episode, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> is joined by <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/erica-lee">Dr. Erica Lee</a>, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at MSK, to discuss misconceptions around who can get <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/skin">skin cancer</a>, how it presents on different skin types, and practical sun safety tips to help prevent skin cancer. They break down the different types of skin cancer, including <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/basal-cell-carcinoma">basal cell carcinoma</a>, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/squamous-cell-carcinoma">squamous cell carcinoma</a>, and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/melanoma">melanoma</a>. They also hear from Jocelyn, a Hispanic melanoma survivor who shares her surprise of being diagnosed with melanoma despite her Hispanic background, emphasizing the importance of routine skin checks for people of all skin types.
Episode Chapters: 1:30 - Types of skin cancer 4:39 - Who's most at risk? 7:13 - Warning signs to look out for 10:25 - What darker skin populations need to know 13:25 - Sun protection myths and tips

What Everyone Should Know About Skin Cancer: Risks, Myths & Prevention

Surgery options: lumpectomy vs. mastectomy

Family history, genetics, and BRCA mutation

Which surgery has the best outcomes?

Surgery patient testimony

Nipple-sparing mastectomy

What is radiation?

Why is radiation needed?

What does a typical radiation plan entail?

Radiation patient testimony

Radiation side effects & how to mitigate them

Exercise during treatment and recovery

Reconstruction options after surgery

Recovery after reconstruction

Insurance coverage for breast reconstruction

Reconstruction patient testimony

Nipple tattoos and 3D areola reconstruction

Surveillance and risks of breast implants

Advice for patients

In this episode (part 1 of 2), Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes speaks with a team of MSK experts to demystify three breast cancer treatment options: surgery, radiation, and reconstruction. Breast surgeon Dr. Tracy-Ann Moo explains the difference between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy, and why one isn’t always better than the other. Radiation oncologist Dr. Michael Bernstein discusses the role of radiation therapy in the treatment of breast cancer. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Michelle Coriddi describes various breast reconstruction and preservation techniques, which can help patients maintain a positive body image after treatment.

Subscribe to Cancer Straight Talk to be notified when Part 2 airs, covering chemotherapy, hormone therapy and survivorship for people with breast cancer.

Episode Chapters:
1:27 - Surgery options: lumpectomy vs. mastectomy
2:32 - Family history, genetics, and BRCA mutation
3:30 - Which surgery has the best outcomes?
5:16 - Surgery patient testimony 
6:46 - Nipple-sparing mastectomy
7:36 - What is radiation?
8:49 - Why is radiation needed?
10:11 - What does a typical radiation plan entail?
11:19 - Radiation patient testimony
12:38 - Radiation side effects & how to mitigate them
14:25 - Exercise during treatment and recovery
15:10 - Reconstruction options after surgery
18:22 - Recovery after reconstruction
19:10 - Insurance coverage for breast reconstruction
19:31 - Reconstruction patient testimony
20:58 - Nipple tattoos and 3D areola reconstruction
22:00 - Surveillance and risks of breast implants
23:02 - Advice for patients

In this episode (part 1 of 2), <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/diane-reidy-lagunes">Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes</a> speaks with a team of MSK experts to demystify three <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast">breast cancer</a> treatment options: <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/treatment/surgery">surgery</a>, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/treatment/radiation-therapy">radiation</a>, and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/reconstruction-prosthesis">reconstruction</a>. Breast surgeon <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/tracy-ann-moo">Dr. Tracy-Ann Moo</a> explains the difference between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy, and why one isn’t always better than the other. Radiation oncologist <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/michael-bernstein">Dr. Michael Bernstein</a> discusses the role of radiation therapy in the treatment of breast cancer. Plastic and reconstructive surgeon <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/doctors/michelle-coriddi">Dr. Michelle Coriddi</a> describes various breast reconstruction and preservation techniques, which can help patients maintain a positive body image after treatment.
Subscribe to Cancer Straight Talk to be notified when Part 2 airs, covering <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/treatment/systemic-therapy/chemotherapy">chemotherapy</a>, <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/treatment/systemic-therapy/hormone-therapy">hormone therapy</a> and <a href="https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/breast/living-beyond-breast-cancer">survivorship</a> for people with breast cancer.
Episode Chapters: 1:27 - Surgery options: lumpectomy vs. mastectomy 2:32 - Family history, genetics, and BRCA mutation 3:30 - Which surgery has the best outcomes? 5:16 - Surgery patient testimony  6:46 - Nipple-sparing mastectomy 7:36 - What is radiation? 8:49 - Why is radiation needed? 10:11 - What does a typical radiation plan entail? 11:19 - Radiation patient testimony 12:38 - Radiation side effects &amp; how to mitigate them 14:25 - Exercise during treatment and recovery 15:10 - Reconstruction options after surgery 18:22 - Recovery after reconstruction 19:10 - Insurance coverage for breast reconstruction 19:31 - Reconstruction patient testimony 20:58 - Nipple tattoos and 3D areola reconstruction 22:00 - Surveillance and risks of breast implants 23:02 - Advice for patients

Breast Cancer Treatment Part 1: Surgery, Radiation and Reconstruction

Cancer Straight Talk from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center brings together national experts and cancer patients to have straightforward, evidence-based conversations. Our mission is to educate and empower patients and their families to make the right decisions and live happier, healthier lives.

Cancer Straight Talk from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center brings together national experts and cancer patients to have straightforward, evidence-based conversations. Our mission is to educate and empower patients and their families to make the right decisions and live happier, healthier lives.

Cancer Straight Talk

Cancer Straight Talk

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