From Treatment to Thriving: Redefining Cancer Survivorship

From Treatment to Thriving: Redefining Cancer Survivorship

As cancer survival rates rise, "survivorship" has emerged as a critical new phase of care - one that extends far beyond treatment and into long-term physical, emotional, and psychological recovery. Through firsthand stories from a breast cancer survivor and a melanoma survivor-turned-provider, this episode reveals how patients navigate side effects, fear of recurrence, and life-altering changes that can last for decades. It also highlights how survivorship programs at Fred Hutch are evolving to support patients earlier and more holistically, helping them move from treatment toward living well. Key takeaways * Survivorship starts at diagnosis, not after treatment ends—and often means coping with the effects of treatment, not just the cancer itself. * Cancer care leaves lasting impacts across physical health, mental health, relationships, and finances, requiring ongoing support long after therapy. * New treatments like immunotherapy are transforming outcomes, but their long-term effects are still being understood. * Modern survivorship programs are expanding earlier and more holistically, meeting patients where they are and helping them rebuild strength, confidence, and quality of life.

How Wildfire Smoke, Light at Night, and 'Solar Jet Lag' Can Increase Cancer Risk

In this episode, Trang VoPham, PhD, MPH, MS, from Fred Hutch Cancer Center discusses the impact of environmental exposures like wildfire smoke and solar jet lag on health with Diane Mapes from Fred Hutch News. Dr. VoPham also lists other potential risks, such as for liver cancer, and offers potential strategies for mitigation of these impacts. One takeaway: Where you live in a time zone impacts your circadian rhythms and your risks for disease.

Why do we choose the 'quick fix' over tried-and-true cancer prevention?

In this episode of From Bench to Bedside and Beyond, Fred Hutch psychologist and public health researcher Dr. Jonathan Bricker, who holds the Endowed Chair in Cancer Prevention, talks to Diane Mapes about why people embrace dietary supplements, which are unregulated by the FDA and require no safety or scientific studies, and turn away from science-based cancer prevention like the HPV vaccine. "It's not about ignorance or misinformation," Bricker said. "It's about a basic human desire to avoid discomfort and to have control." Takeaways: * Many people take supplements in order to improve health and avoid cancer. * But large clinical trials led by Fred Hutch have found some supplements actually promote, not prevent, cancer. * At the same time, vaccine hesitancy is increasing – even for safe, long-studied vaccines that actually prevent cancer. * What's the psychology behind our willingness to embrace 'quick fixes' like supplements and peptides even when there's little science behind their efficacy, and turn away from tried-and-true cancer prevention like the HPV vaccine? * It's about a 'basic human desire to avoid discomfort and to have control,' Bricker said. * Dietary supplements 'aren't just biological interventions, they're psychological interventions,' Bricker said, because they promise immediate action and give us agency. * Public health messaging tends to take a rational approach. This triggers fear, which then drives people toward the 'quick biomedical fix.' It creates a "psychological feedback loop."

From diagnosis to biking in Croatia: a kidney cancer patient's journey

In this episode of From Bench to Bedside and Beyond, Dr. Yaw Nyame and patient Dave Lucas talk with Fred Hutch's Bonnie Rochman on exploring innovative kidney cancer treatments, robotic surgery and the importance of personalized care. Discover how advanced surgical techniques and patient-centered approaches can lead to remarkable recovery stories like Lucas's. Takeaways * Robotic surgery can significantly reduce recovery time for complex cases * Personalized care involves understanding patient goals and lifestyle. * Advanced surgical techniques require meticulous planning and teamwork.

Cancer patient advocate reinforces importance of normalizing conversations about symptoms

In this conversation, Margie Wilson talks to Fred Hutch Cancer Center's Bonnie Rochman about her experience being diagnosed with endometrial cancer and her evolution into a patient advocate for Black women. She discusses her initial symptoms and treatment, the challenges of navigating the medical system, and the importance of having open conversations about women's health and finding a supportive healthcare provider. * Margie was diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2016 after experiencing unexplained bleeding that she attributed to menopause. * The first oncologist she saw was dismissive and rushed, but finding a compassionate and understanding doctor made a significant difference in her treatment experience. * Brachytherapy was a key part of her treatment plan. * Margie became involved with ECANA to advocate for Black women with endometrial cancer. * Education and awareness are vital in saving lives and improving health outcomes for women.