What is cancer? Our experts bring clarity to cancer's complexity.

 

Join two leading oncologists and a medical geneticist, to discuss the answers to all your questions about cancer. Explore genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect your risk. Understand diagnosis, treatment methods and common myths.

In this podcast

Host: Sonia Booth, Author and host of Opinion Booth on CliffCentral.com

Professor Amanda Krause - Medical Geneticist, Associate Professor and Head of the Division of Human Genetics at the National Health Laboratory Service and the University of the Witwatersrand.

A genetic predisposition is a strong predisposition to cancer. We know of perhaps 90 genes linked to a cancer predisposition, and there are probably an equal number that we don't yet know about. And, lifetime risk varies from 40 to 100%, depending on the genetic fault.

We seldom treat a cancer treatment plan as an emergency. If patients have queries or are uncertain of their care, they have time to seek a second opinion. We don't get upset if patients want a second opinion. Patients must be comfortable - the cancer journey is a long one.

Dr Keo Tabane - Medical Oncologist at the Sandton Oncology Centre

Dr Devan Moodley, Medical Oncologist at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre

When a patient is first diagnosed, their doctor will explain the diagnosis, the stage of disease and treatment options. And patients may or may not have chemotherapy, radiation or surgery. Each treatment plan is a complex solution to a complex problem.

More podcasts in this series

 
 
 
 
 
 

Navigating the cancer journey: every step explained

Dr Sandile Mhlongo and Dr Noluthando Nematswerani walk through each step - from healthy living and screening tests to the healthcare support needed through a diagnosis, individualised treatment plans and more.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Girl talk: be empowered with life-saving insight into women’s cancers

Ladies, listen up. Specialist Breast Surgeon, Prof. Carol Benn and Gynaecologist, Dr Trudy Smith share a treasure trove of information, from cancer’s impact on fertility and femininity, vaccinations and healthy living to cut cancer risk, breast self-examination, mammograms, pap smears and more.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Childhood cancers: Surrounding young people & families with the right support

Two top Paediatric Oncologists, an education expert and the mother of two young daughters diagnosed with cancer, share in an unforgettable, true-to-life discussion about childhood cancers. Explore symptoms, treatment, emotional support and much more.

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