Patient Power - Medical Information and Resources

Breast Cancer: Medical Treatment Options

Tue, 13 May 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Learn the latest breast care treatment being used to lower the risk of recurrence and new research in personalized drug therapy for treating breast cancer. Dr. Gradishar also will discuss ongoing research related to the genetic connection with breast cancer.

Understanding PKU and New Treatment Options

Thu, 8 May 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Cancer Biomarkers - Individualizing cancer care

Wed, 7 May 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Cancer researchers are currently looking at biomarkers as an early detection tool for cancer that can improve the management of a person's particular disease. Listen to this webcast to learn what biomarkers are and what their significance is for the future of cancer. With us to discuss these exciting new technologies is medical oncologist, Dr. Evan Yu, from the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Join us for a discussion that will give you a look at what's going on in the future of individualizing cancer care.

Advances in the Treatment of Osteosarcoma

Tue, 6 May 2008 10:00:00 PDT

There are about 2,500 new cases of osteosarcoma diagnosed each year in the U. S., making primary bone cancer relatively rare. M. D. Anderson treats more sarcoma patients than any other hospital in the country.

Autism Controversy and Treatment News

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Autism is a frequently debated topic in the media, and still more questions than answers remain. In this Patient Power program, we will address several issues surrounding autism that are of great concern to parents and families around the world with renowned expert, Dr. Joel Bregman, from the North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System. Learn more about this developmental disorder as we discuss the controversy behind certain issues: alternative immunizations, medicine therapies, increase in autism numbers and how parents can be proactive in their children's care. We will also touch on the possibility of autism at a later age, effective behavioral approaches and current research studies showing promise. Learn about all these things and more in a thought-provoking program for you and the entire family.

The Latest in Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders (EGIDs) are rare conditions characterized by having above-normal amounts of a type of white blood cell in the digestive system called eosinophils. Young children suffering from EGIDs are often unable to accurately describe their symptoms, leaving parents confused about how to address the problem. While significant progress has been made, scientists are still far from pinpointing various causes of these conditions. Two highly regarded experts, known for their knowledge surrounding these conditions are Dr. Glenn Furuta and Dr. Dan Atkins. Dr. Furuta serves as director of the Gastrointestinal Eosinophil Diseases Program, at The Children's Hospital of Colorado. Dr. Atkins is co-director of the Gastrointestinal Eosinophil Diseases Program at the Children's Hospital of Colorado and Medical Director of the Pediatric Day Program at National Jewish Medical and Research Center.

In this Patient Power program, you'll hear Dr. Furuta and Dr. Atkins discuss the difficulties of diagnosing EGIDs. They touch on the latest in patch testing for allergies, as well as the current research into treatment options that may be used in the near future. Both Dr. Furuta and Dr. Atkins answer questions many parents feel are unanswered. How hopeful can we be that a cure will be found in the next five years? What promising treatments are being investigated? Can my child outgrow this disorder? One parent, Beth Mays, who also joins this program, faced many of these same questions and made it her mission to make sure other parents were well-informed.

Beth is Founder and President of the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED). As a parent with a child suffering from Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis (EGE), Beth made it her goal to bring awareness to these disorders. Beth shares her story of being frustrated about not knowing what was wrong with her, then 2-year-old, son Charlie, who vomited continuously and had constant stomach aches. After taking Charlie to several different doctors and specialists around the country, Beth was finally given a name to a mysterious illness that she had never heard of. Listen to Beth's story of frustration, determination and relief in finally getting a diagnosis that, in the end, allowed her to do what was best for her child.

This program introduces you to two world experts and an inspiring parent, all dedicated to making sure you have the right tools for making the best decisions for your family. Learn more about EGIDs, including the severities of these illnesses, dietary restrictions and the role asthma and allergies play.

Colon Cancer Screening

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Colon cancer, commonly referred to as colorectal cancer, is known for being very sneaky. With little to no symptoms displayed in the early stages, patients are left with no forewarning. As the third most common type of cancer, this disease claims thousands of lives each year. With those numbers, organizations like the American Cancer Society, recommend colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 50. These screening tests can allow doctors to catch the disease early and hopefully at a curable stage, thus regular screenings are imperative.

In this Patient Power program, Dr. William Grady, associate professor of Medicine and Section Chief of the Division of Gastreanology at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, joins Andrew to discuss the latest in screening for colon cancer and current clinical trials. Find out about new techniques like virtual colonoscopy, learn how early detection is allowing some patients make a full recovery and why advanced colon cancer patients can be optimistic as well.

You'll hear Dr. Grady discuss the latest in screening methods for colon cancer including the fecal occult blood test and the flexible sigmoidoscopy test. Dr. Grady also touches on why the colonoscopy still remains one of the most trusted methods of testing. Listen to all this and more in this webcast sponsored by the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. In Dr. Grady's own words, "the most common sign of colon cancer is no symptom at all, and that's why screening is so important. But if symptoms do develop, it's usually a sign that a cancer is there, and it may be slightly more advanced, but still doing something about it sooner rather than later is the right strategy because that gives the best chance to cure it." If you have been curious about colon cancer screening, don't wait, be proactive.

Understanding Alzheimer's Disease

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Many people worry about forgetfulness and fear that it is a precursor to Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Weintraub reviews age-related cognitive changes that are a normal part of aging and describe the types of cognitive changes that are typical of Alzheimer's disease. The exact cause of Alzheimer's disease is unknown, but Dr. Weintraub reviews several major theories that are attempting to uncover this mystery. Learn how an extensive clinical evaluation, including neuropsychological testing, is important in making a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and how Northwestern's Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease Center can provide an evaluation, offer ongoing support to patients and families, and provide opportunities to participate in ground-breaking research.

The Latest Advances in Parkinson's Disease

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative movement disorder, requires careful expert attention from a multidisciplinary team to ensure both a correct diagnosis and treatment. On this episode of Patient Power, host Andrew Schorr is joined by Dr. Monique Giroux, the director of the Booth Gardner Parkinson's Care Center at Evergreen Hospital Medical Center, to discuss the latest in available treatments and the amazing blend of art and science required to help Parkinson's patients maintain full and healthy lives.

Alice Cleeton, a 49-year-old diagnosed with Parkinson's on her 40th birthday, also joins the program to share her journey from the onset of the disease, through its progression, including the various medications and techniques she employed to manage the disease before having deep-brain stimulation. Alice's joyful spirit is unmistakable and she serves as a prime example of the how the most recent research and developments in this area of brain science are directly benefiting patients.

Listen as Dr. Giroux explains what is occurring in the brain of a Parkinson's patient and how doctors use this information to begin to treat the symptoms. Although there is no cure, Dr. Giroux offers tremendous hope that with the correct combination of medications, and perhaps surgical treatments like deep brain stimulation, Parkinson's patients can lead very full lives. She emphasizes the importance of treating the entire person who has Parkinson's, not just the disease. Given the progressive nature of the condition, it is essential that the doctors and patient work together to continually maintain their wellness. This sentiment is mirrored in the Center's unique multidisciplinary approach with neurologists, neuropsychologists, physical, occupational and speech therapists, nutritionists, social workers and counselors, all working together under one roof to create a program tailored to the unique needs of each patient.

Of particular interest in the interview is the information Dr. Giroux shares about the different areas of research happening in Parkinson's. She also talks about the variety of movement disorders beyond Parkinson's, including Dystonia, Tremors, and Huntington's disease, which are treated at the Center. This program offers tremendous hope for all those who are touched by Parkinson's disease or related movement disorders.

Emerging Treatments for Scleroderma

Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease that severely affects the skin, blood vessels and connective tissue. While there is currently no cure for scleroderma, ongoing research efforts and new treatments are emerging, and scientists are optimistic. With all these developments on the horizon, many patients are very eager to know when new treatments will be available. Fortunately, with renowned experts, like Dr. Arthur Theodore, and programs such as this one, scleroderma patients have access to information required to make informed decisions about their care.

Dr. Theodore is director of Medical Education, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at Boston Medical Center. As a nationally recognized pulmonlogist, he focuses on systemic sclerosis and interstitial lung disease. He joins Andrew on this Patient Power program to discuss the latest treatments, clinical trials and progress in treating scleroderma. You'll hear Dr. Theodore explain how scleroderma can be very mild in some patients and severe in others, as in the case of two patients who also participate in this enlightening discussion.

In an effort to show how each patients' symptoms and outcomes can be radically different, Chris O'Leary and Francesco Scarcella are prime examples. Chris was diagnosed in 2002 with diffuse scleroderma, his illness progressed rather quickly with beginning symptoms of a chronic cough, raynauds, gerd, tightness in joints, skin and lung involvement. After failing medical therapy, his lungs deteriorated to the point that he had to have a lung transplant. Hear Chris talk about his exceptional recovery and his renewed outlook on life. Francesco also joins the discussion to share his story about being diagnosed with diffused scleroderma in August 2005, with a new disease onset that suddenly became active. Both patients speak about their current treatments, changes in their disease, and how renowned expert, Dr. Arthur Theodore, has played a vital role in their care, and continues to monitor their conditions.

Autoimmune diseases are still, for the most part, quite mysterious, but researchers are working hard on solving the mystery. If you or a loved one have been searching for information on scleroderma, look no further--you are sure to be inspired by what you will hear.

Advances in the Treatment of Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Sarcomas are a large group of malignant tumors that can be found almost anywhere in the body and can strike young and old alike. This Patient Power program sponsored by The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center features Dr. Robert Benjamin. Dr. Benjamin is Professor and Chair of Sarcoma Medical Oncology at M. D. Anderson, an institution that treats more sarcoma patients than any other hospital in the country.

Also joining the program is Jennifer, a 56-year-old soft tissue sarcoma patient being treated by Dr. Benjamin. In 2004 Jennifer found a strange lump in her abdomen. She had it checked out and was immediately referred to Dr. Benjamin. Jennifer has been through treatment and surgery at M. D. Anderson and is followed closely by doctors with regular check-ups. Today Jennifer leads a very full life.

Soft tissue sarcomas can be found almost anywhere in the body, but most occur in arms and legs and include many different types and subtypes. Dr. Benjamin talks about the importance of an accurate diagnosis, first using an expert pathologist to determine the correct type of sarcoma, so that treatment can be tailored to the specific type. He goes on to discuss breakthroughs in sarcoma, specifically with Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST), and details how therapies are complex and constantly evolving based on new knowledge about sarcoma. Dr. Benjamin answers questions from listeners and talks about why he's hopeful about the future for treatment. Listen to this program for a comprehensive overview of soft tissue sarcoma.

Anti-Angiogenic Therapy: Inhibiting Tumor Growth in Breast Cancer

Wed, 9 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

The past several years have given us some great news concerning cancer treatment and it seems we can continue to be optimistic. In this Patient Power program sponsored by the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, Dr. Julie Gralow, director of Breast Medical Oncology at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, joins Andrew Schorr for a discussion focusing on inhibiting tumor growth in breast cancer, and an explanation of what anti-angiogenic therapy is. Dr. Gralow addresses some very important issues and answers your questions about the latest news in the treatment of breast cancer. Dr. Gralow, a doctor known for going above and beyond, is also joined by one of her patients who shares her amazing story of strength and perseverance.

Dr. Gralow's patient, Virginia, was diagnosed in 1994 with metastatic breast cancer, but this was not a routine diagnosis. Virginia had several concerning mammograms that read as negative. Despite these hurdles, Virginia remained hopeful. Hear how Dr. Gralow was able to speak with Virginia's insurance company and convinced them to pay for her treatment. Learn how persistence, paired with a well-versed expert, made all the difference in Virginia's treatment.

During this program, Dr. Gralow shares her excitement over the approval of Avastin and three other exciting new drug approvals. She details how this therapy and others are controlling tumor growth, and what actions are being taken to help reduce the costs of treatments. If you are in search of the latest news in breast cancer treatments and anticipated drug approvals, this program is for you.

Breast Cancer Patient Power

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

A breast cancer diagnosis will leave many patients feeling hopeless and uniformed. However, many doctors are now giving their patients the power of choice by allowing them to decide what they want out of treatment and what they prefer to avoid. In this Patient Power program, Dr. Kenneth Miller from Yale Cancer Center's Medical Oncology department will join us to discuss different treatments available and how to make sure you explore all your options. Also joining us today is Dr. Miller's wife, Joan, a breast cancer survivor herself, and Yale patient Heather Anne Roche, who will both share how this experience has changed their lives. Join us for a program that is sure to empower you.

Recent Advances in Spine Surgery

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Spinal surgery is among the most common surgeries performed today. In this episode of Patient Power on iHealth sponsored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr. Richard Fessler joins Andrew to discuss the benefits and advances of minimally invasive spine surgery. Dr. Fessler is a neurosurgeon on the medical staff at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and professor of Neurosurgery at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Using traditional techniques, patients undergoing surgery can experience significant pain, blood loss, risk of complications and prolonged recovery time. Dr. Fessler helps us understand how minimally invasive surgical techniques have now been developed not only for routine spine surgeries, including cervical discectomy and decompression of the lumbar and cervical stenosis, but also for the more complicated cases involving scoliosis and spinal tumors. He speaks highly of the team at Northwestern and talks about why he is excited about the ever-evolving advancements in the future for spine surgery.

You'll also hear from Dr. Fessler's patient, Barbara, who tells her story of living with chronic pain for many years. Barbara had reached a point where her walking was becoming much more difficult and was told that she may have to be in a wheelchair. Fortunately, she was able to connect with Dr. Fessler and get the surgical treatment she needed. You'll hear about her recovery and how, today, Barbara is actively working, teaching and enjoying country and western dancing. If you're looking for options to deal with chronic pain, this program details surgical treatments that may be right for you or a loved one, and quite possibly, change your life.

Pain & the Cancer Patient

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 10:00:00 PDT

About one-third of patients being treated for cancer experience pain, and each patient's pain is unique. The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has experts that carefully design each patient's pain management plan. In this informative Patient Power program, Dr. Allen Burton joins Andrew to discuss treatment options for cancer patients dealing with pain. Dr. Burton is Professor and Clinical Medical Director in the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine at M. D. Anderson.

Dr. Burton begins by explaining the different types of pain, acute and chronic, and what treatments may be best to treat each type. Unfortunately many patients do not report their pain and, therefore, do not seek or receive appropriate treatment for their symptoms. The Pain Clinic at M. D. Anderson works to find the best combination of pain controlling treatments so that patients' quality of life can be as pleasant as possible. Dr. Burton talks about the various ways to alleviate pain including holistic treatments, acupuncture, massage, rehabilitation programs, psychological therapies, as well as more traditional approaches like pharmacologic agents. You'll hear specific information on the range of treatments available for cancer patients and how to most effectively explain your pain to your doctor.

Dr. Burton talks about how scientists and researchers at M. D. Anderson are moving in a fruitful direction to find ways to reduce pain. He closes the interview by answering listener questions and touching on surgical methods that are used in pain control. Listen to this program if you're looking for answers to your questions about cancer pain.

What Does the Latest Lymphoma News Mean to You?

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

According to Patient Power guest Dr. James Armitage, a renowned expert in his field, in the United States approximately 70,000 people each year are diagnosed with lymphoma. In this special edition program, Dr. Armitage joins Andrew Schorr to discuss the latest news in lymphoma research and treatment. Dr. Armitage is the Joe Shapiro Professor of Medicine in the Oncology/Hematology section at the University of Nebraska and the founder of the Bone Marrow Transplant Program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

Dr. Armitage begins the program by discussing how lymphoma is diagnosed and the importance of an accurate diagnosis. Often a wrong diagnosis leads to unfavorable treatment. With a precise diagnosis, treatment can be tailored to your specific cancer. Dr. Armitage talks about the changing landscape of treatment and the tremendous progress that has been achieved in the past several years, including increasing drug effectiveness while reducing side effects. He addresses questions about the watch and wait period--why it is legitimate, what types of lymphomas this is appropriate for and when to begin treatment.

You'll learn about radiolabeled antibodies, stem cell transplantation and important research being done by Dr. Armitage and his colleagues. He answers a variety of questions from listeners, covering topics like CVP therapy and nodal marginal zone lymphoma. Learn about Dr. Armitage's take on the future of lymphoma and what strategies are being used to identify lymphoma types and make treatments more effective. This program is an optimistic look at the future of lymphoma research and treatment.

Palliative Care and Communicating with your Doctor

Wed, 26 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

As a patient have you ever wondered why the communication lines between doctors and their patients seem to have become more limited and impersonal? Do you find it difficult to ask your doctor important questions about your health? There are people suffering from health problems and chronic diseases all over the world, yet less than half receive quality healthcare and a genuine concern on the part of their physicians. In this program, sponsored by the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA), Andrew talks about the importance of effective doctor-patient communication with medical expert, Dr. Anthony Back.

Dr. Back is a professor of oncology and an adjunct associate professor of Medical History and Ethics at the University of Washington. Dr. Back is also an affiliate member of the Clinical Research Division at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Also joining Andrew is Seattle University law professor and author, John Mitchell, who speaks about his terminally ill family members' experiences with their doctors, and introduces his book entitled Understanding Assisted Suicide: Nine Issues to Consider. In addition to the discussion on doctor-patient communication, Dr. Back also talks about palliative care, its uses, and the benefits.

As you will find out, palliative care is not right or necessary for everyone who is terminally ill, but strong doctor-patient communication is. In this program, we learn that the more in-depth a doctor is with his patient, and the more open a patient is in expressing his concerns to his doctor, the more a patient will learn about his illness and the most effective treatment options and care available for their discomfort. Join Dr. Anthony Back and Mr. John Mitchell to learn more about the importance of communicating effectively with your doctor as well as full details on palliative care, what it is and what it means for those you love.

Transplant in the Hispanic Population: Broadcast in Spanish

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

State-of-the Art Prostate Cancer Treatment

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Prostate cancer is found in one of every six men in the United States and is one of the most common forms of cancer among American men, according to the National Cancer Institute. More common than colon cancer, lymphoma, and melanoma combined. Currently, there are nearly 2 million American men living with prostate cancer. This disease is caused by an uncontrollable cell growth within the prostate. While there are no symptoms or signs visible to the naked eye, there are several risk factors involved, these include diet, age, ethnicity, and the history of the disease within one's family.

Andrew addresses the topic of prostate cancer with Dr. Bruce Montgomery and his patient, Don Monroe. Dr. Montgomery is an oncologist in the medical oncology division of the University of Washington Medical Center as well as the head of the prostate cancer oncology clinic at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance Prostate Center, located in the UW Surgery Pavilion. Dr. Montgomery is also an associate member of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and is dedicated to helping his patients who suffer from both prostate and bladder cancers. In this program, Dr. Montgomery discusses the treatments previously offered for prostate cancer as well as new treatment methods that are being used. His patient, Don Monroe, also joins us to share his story of living with prostate cancer.

Don, a man in his sixties, was diagnosed with prostate cancer after undergoing a routine prostate cancer screening. These screenings are typically the only way the cancer can be detected as there are no visible symptoms or signs to provide any other warning. Don speaks about the treatments he is currently receiving and his experience under Dr. Montgomery's care. Hear Don's inspiring story of how this diagnosis changed his life and why he has much to look forward to.

As with all cancers, the treatments can be energy-zapping, repetitive and ongoing for the life of the disease. Does this mean that prostate cancer is a curable disease? Discover this answer and more with Dr. Bruce Montgomery and the inspiring story of his patient, Don Monroe.

Advances in Stem Cell Transplants

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center is one of the largest centers in the world for stem cell transplants, performing more than 700 procedures for adults and children each year, more than any other center in the nation. In this Patient Power program sponsored by M. D. Anderson, Dr. Partow Kebriaei joins Andrew to discuss the latest research and advances in stem cell transplantation. Dr. Kebriaei is Assistant Professor in the Stem Cell Transplantation & Cellular Therapy Program at M. D. Anderson.

Also joining the program is Eddie, a stem cell transplant recipient and leukemia survivor. Eddie tells his story detailing his symptoms and diagnosis. He received chemotherapy and eventually a stem cell transplant. After visiting several hospitals throughout the country, Eddie and his wife decided to come to M. D. Anderson, a leader in the transplant field, for the treatment he needed. Hear how he's doing now and why he couldn't be happier with the care he received from the team at M. D. Anderson.

Dr. Kebriaei helps us to understand what stem cell and bone marrow transplants involve. She gives a detailed explanation of the process, including the difference between allogeneic and autologous transplants. Stem cell transplant therapy is used to treat leukemias, lymphomas, myelomas and, in some cases, even solid tumors. Dr. Kebriaei discusses donation of stem cells, umbilical cord blood banking, host versus graft disease and speaks candidly about her hopes for the future of stem cell therapy. The clinical trials taking place at M. D. Anderson are changing the landscape of treatment for various cancers. If you are curious about stem cell therapy and who it might be right for, this program provides a wealth of knowledge on the topic.

Recent Advances and Challenges in Transplantation

Tue, 11 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

The field of solid organ transplantation has matured significantly over the past three decades. There continue to be exciting developments that propel the field forward. In this episode of Patient Power on iHealth, Dr. Michael Abecassis joins Andrew to discuss advances and challenges in organ transplantation. Dr. Abecassis is chief of the Division of Transplantation at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and dean for clinical affairs and James Roscoe Miller Distinguished Professor of Surgery and Microbiology-Immunology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine.

Also joining the program is Cherita Monroe, and her husband Demetrius. When Cherita was diagnosed with a rare kidney disease and needed an organ transplant, Demetrius was able to donate his to Cherita, despite the fact that he wasn't a match. You'll hear the touching story of how, with the help of new techniques and technologies, Demetrius was able to save Cherita's life.

Dr. Abecassis helps us to understand kidney transplant, how it works and how to find a match. He explains the desensitization procedure that enabled Demetrius to give his kidney to Cherita, and how this new innovation is changing the landscape of transplant. Dr. Abecassis also goes into detail discussing anti-rejection medications and the future of anti-rejection medications. Researchers are working to understand the immune systems so that patients can undergo a transplant without the need for lifetime anti-rejection medications. Dr. Abecassis talks about why cutting edge procedures and exciting developments in research are good reason to be excited about the future of transplantation.

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA), often referred to as 'triple-A', is a bulge that develops as a result of a degenerative process of the aortic wall. If not treated early, an AAA can rupture or burst, which usually results in the immediate death of the patient. The rupture of an AAA leads to large amounts of blood spilling into the abdominal cavity. AAA's weaken the walls of the blood vessel, which makes it vulnerable to rupturing or bursting. Sadly, most people are unaware that they may have an AAA and as a result, do not go for an initial screening. At the very least, we want everyone to become educated and familiar with AAA and its symptoms and causes.

In this program, Andrew Schorr is joined by renowned medical expert Dr. Mark Farber, director of the UNC Endovascular Institute and associate professor of surgery and radiology at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Dr. Farber has had many opportunities to treat AAA's in his patients, thus saving their lives. One of Dr. Farber's patients, Dick May, shares his story with us later in the program.

AAA is common in older adults, specifically older men between the ages of 65 and 75, and smokers. That is not to say that women and non-smokers are immune. Dick is 68 years old and an AAA survivor. Before his treatment and surgery, Dick had not felt any pains or experienced any symptoms, but he was screened because he fit the profile for persons with AAA. How many people out there fit the profile for AAA but have not yet been screened? In this program, you will learn more about the risks and ways to screen, scan and treat AAA's. Join Dr. Farber and his patient, as we take a closer look into the dangers of this silent disease.

The New Power of the Internet for Better Health

Sun, 9 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Ask the Expert about the Latest Myeloma News

Fri, 7 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

The American Society of Hematology has a conference each year, where about 30,000 experts in blood-related cancers gather from around the world to discuss their latest research. On this show, host Andrew Schorr is joined by Dr. Sagar Lonial, a myeloma specialist in Atlanta. Dr. Lonial is an associate professor at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, and also Director of Translational Research in the B-cell Malignancy Program there. They discuss the findings from this year's ASH conference and take calls and emails from listeners.

Dr. Sagar Lonial explains why this is a pivotal time in myeloma research. As more research and techniques become available, it's important to think about how these therapies all work together. The discussion focuses on combination therapy, including transplant and several drug therapies. He speaks about promising new drugs, how to choose the right treatment and how doctors are improving transplants.

We also hear from patients from around the country with questions about specific drugs and other treatments. Dr. Lonial helps them to decide how to know when to call your doctor when side effects get too bad, and gives advice about what patients can do on their own to improve their chances for recovery, as well as treatment options to discuss with their doctors. He also answers questions about the role heredity might play, and how a patient's age might affect which therapies are used.

Tune in to this show to learn about the differences between specific drugs and therapies, as well as new technologies that are making this an exciting time in myeloma research and treatment. While there may bumps in the road in myeloma treatment, these new technologies have suggested myeloma patients can now live long, full lives while undergoing occasional treatment. Dr. Lonial says, "a main goal for all of us who treat myeloma is that we want patients to be back doing what they normally do and enjoying life and spending time with their family."

Advances in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

Tue, 4 Mar 2008 10:00:00 PDT

Over 30,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this year. The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center has active research and clinical trials studying new therapies for pancreatic cancer. In this Patient Power program sponsored by M. D. Anderson, CLL-survivor and host Andrew Schorr talks with Dr. Douglas Evans and Dr. Robert Wolff about the latest advances in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Dr. Evans is a Surgical Oncologist and Chief of Endocrine/Pancreatic Surgery at M. D. Anderson and Dr. Wolff is Associate Professor of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology also at M. D. Anderson.

Pancreatic cancer can be a devastating diagnosis, but there are people who survive for extended periods of time, living a high-quality life. In this interview, you'll meet one of those people, Mary, who was diagnosed in 2001 and was quickly referred to M. D. Anderson. Hear Mary's inspiring account of being diagnosed, choosing treatment and how she partnered with her doctors to get the best care.

Dr. Wolff talks about the benefits of surgery, and when surgery should be performed. The Whipple Procedure is often used when treating pancreatic cancer, and Dr. Wolff helps us understand exactly what the procedure is and what to expect if you are preparing for one yourself. He details the treatments combined with surgery, such as chemotherapy, and how this course of treatment is determined. He also speaks about the team approach to care at M. D. Anderson as well as the progress that is being made in research. Dr. Evans joins the discussion to talk about the importance of medical oncologists and surgical oncologists working together as well as the long-term prognosis of advancements in pancreatic cancer.

If you're looking for support or answers about pancreatic cancer care, this program is sure to provide you with information you seek.