Author: Vino Cherian

As the founder of cancerGO, my mission is to destigmatize cancer to simplify the future of cancer care. The passion behind building cancerGO stems from witnessing my grandmother, uncle's, and friends' cancer journeys among countless patients during my tenure at MD Anderson Cancer.

Acknowledge the Struggles of Those Affected by Cancer

Posted on by Vino Cherian

It is not easy to face Cancer alone. But by recognizing the hardships that come with it, we can show compassion and support that gives patients the strength to carry on. Acknowledging cancer patients’ struggles lets them know that their fight matters and that they are not alone. This gesture of compassion and support can be incredibly powerful for those on this challenging journey. It conveys a message of understanding and acceptance and lets them know that YOU care about them meaningfully. By simply recognizing the hardships that come with dealing with Cancer, both physically and emotionally, you are showing your respect for what they are facing.

Acknowledging the challenges of chemotherapy, radiation treatments, side effects from medications and other treatments, fatigue from frequent doctor visits or hospital stays, and fear of the unknown—everything that comes with coping with Cancer—will offer recognition of their strength and courage as they face these obstacles head-on. Furthermore, it will help to let them know there is hope despite feeling overwhelmed by the situation. Such acknowledgment can also reassure those uncertain about their future after diagnosis. Not only does it help remind patients that they are seen and valued throughout this process but it allows them to feel empowered even in moments of doubt or despair.

So, go ahead, say it; whether it is a simple “I am here for you” or a heartfelt “I love you,” acknowledging their fight lets them know that their journey matters and that they are not alone. By showing respect for what they are facing, we convey a message of understanding and acceptance that can be incredibly powerful. So don’t be afraid to reach out and show your support. Your words and gestures can make all the difference.

Acknowledging the struggle makes them feel they ‘MATTER’ to you.

Leveraging the Power of Community to Normalize Cancer Talks and break down barriers – Let’s Start the Conversation NOW

Posted on by Vino Cherian

Cancer can be a complex topic to discuss, but it is a meaningful conversation that needs to happen. We need to normalize conversations about Cancer — not only for those facing the disease but also for their families, friends, and communities. One way of accomplishing this is by leveraging the power of the community. When people come together and share their experiences, they can provide much-needed support during difficult times. However, we must also break down any barriers preventing us from discussing Cancer openly — cultural beliefs or simply feelings of embarrassment or shame associated with talking about such a sensitive topic. Cultural beliefs often act as a barrier when discussing Cancer openly, especially in many parts of the world where there is still much stigma surrounding the disease — often due to false information circulated within particular cultures.

By breaking these barriers, we can finally begin having honest conversations about Cancer — about treatments, therapies, and the importance of early detection and prevention. Education is critical to breaking down these barriers and having open discussions about Cancer. We must provide accurate information on treatments to EMPOWER people to make informed decisions without fear or judgment from others.

Access to a supportive community also makes it easier for those going through treatments to feel less alone in their fight against Cancer. Supportive communities are especially vital for those living in rural areas who may not have easy access to medical care or other helpful educational resources. Furthermore, these communities allow us to learn from each other and share our stories in a safe space free from judgment and stigma.

We must also focus on shifting mindsets when discussing Cancer openly — shattering any ideas associated with shame or embarrassment when discussing such a sensitive topic. Education is crucial here as well; by educating others on the realities of this disease and how it affects those living with it, we can help diminish some of the taboos surrounding discussions about Cancer.

To that end, normalizing conversations about Cancer starts with leveraging communities who come together in support. Still, it also requires us all to take action to break down any cultural barriers and shift our mindsets when talking about such a sensitive subject matter. By doing so, we can create an open dialogue between those living with the disease and their loved ones while providing accurate information on treatments while raising awareness regarding early detection and prevention methods available today!

World Cancer Day & The Power of Hope

Posted on by Vino Cherian

World Cancer Day is celebrated every year on February 4th to raise awareness and support for the fight against cancer. On this day, the global community unites to honor the millions of people affected by cancer and those fighting it every day. This year, cancerGO is proud to join in celebrating World Cancer Day with a mission that brings” HOPE” back into the lives of those living with cancer.

Ensuring equitable access to care and support for all individuals is a fundamental human right. Unfortunately, those facing cancer are especially vulnerable to disparities in health services due to resources or socio-economic status – factors that should not be the deciding factor between life-saving treatments and inadequate healthcare options. It is time we start combating this injustice by elevating our collective voices toward creating an environment of equality where every person can receive high-quality treatment without sacrificing their financial stability or emotional well-being.

At cancerGO, we dedicate ourselves to helping everyone affected by cancer. We have created a safe space for anyone seeking help, support, and empowerment, free of cancer’s stigma while battling this disease. We offer educational resources, peer-to-peer support, diagnosis navigation, and access to service providers who provide emotional support and events that can help make life a little easier for those dealing with cancer.

CancerGO is more than just an app—it is a community of people committed to making a difference.

On World Cancer Day, we want people to know that they are not alone in their fight against cancer – help is available! cancerGO has impacted lives through our initiatives that focus on supporting those dealing with any form of cancer. We are proud of what we have accomplished in such a short period.

World Cancer Day is an important reminder that no one should ever feel alone when dealing with cancer. By raising awareness on this day, we aim to create a sense of unity among individuals facing similar diagnoses or struggles. This allows us to come together as a global community and celebrate the progress in the fight against cancer—at the same time, looking ahead for further advancements in treatment options and services available for those affected by it.

At cancerGO, we believe in the power of HOPE—that even when faced with seemingly impossible odds, there is always something worth fighting. Together, we can ensure that no one meets their diagnosis alone. Let us unite and show our strength, courage, resilience —and, most importantly—HOPE. Let us continue fighting forward!

Join cancerGO! and make a powerful difference in others’ lives. Together, we can support each other’s journeys through challenging times – do not hesitate to reach out for more information!

The future of early detection- Liquid biopsy

Posted on by Vino Cherian

Cancer is a frightening disease that impacts many people worldwide, a molecular disorder characterized by the corruption of genetic information at the cellular level, with consequences resulting in changes to critical proteins and molecular circuits. While many treatment options are available, early detection is key to successful treatment; liquid biopsies are a new way to detect cancer.

Let us explore liquid biopsy, how it works, and the benefits of using this approach to detect cancer

A liquid biopsy is a new, non-invasive way to detect and screen for cancer, predict a person’s risk of developing cancer, and guide treatment decisions.

Types of liquid biopsies:

There are several types of liquid biopsies currently available or under development. The most common type uses blood or other body fluids to look for DNA changes that may be associated with cancer. Liquid biopsies consist of isolating tumor-derived entities like circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, and tumor extracellular vesicles present in the body fluids of patients with cancer, followed by an analysis of genomic and proteomic data contained within them.

Other liquid biopsies look for proteins or molecules released by cancer cells into the bloodstream. It involves using a simple blood test to look for cancerous cells or DNA. This method is less invasive than traditional biopsies and can screen for multiple types of cancer at once. It could also monitor cancer patients for recurrent cancer or assess their effectiveness.

Advantages of Liquid biopsy over traditional biopsy:

There is a significant advantage of liquid biopsy over traditional tissue biopsy. Liquid biopsies are minimally invasive, have a shorter turnaround time, lower sample isolation costs, provide real-time drug response monitoring, and reveal spatial and temporal tumor heterogeneities.

As the specificity of the technology continues to progress, cancer screening and prevention will improve and save countless lives by finding cancer early so that routine surgery may only be for a definitive cure.

While far less expensive and accessible than traditional biopsy methods, it is a promising option for patients worldwide. With continued research and development, a liquid biopsy may soon become the gold standard for cancer screening, holding great promise for the future of cancer detection and treatment.

Ampullary Cancer

Posted on by Vino Cherian

Ampullary cancer is a rare type that develops in the ampulla, a small sac-like structure where the bile duct and pancreatic duct enter the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). Ampullary cancer often has symptoms similar to pancreatic cancer that are sometimes mistaken for the disease. The ampulla of Vater secretes digestive enzymes into the duodenum and regulates bile flow from the liver and gallbladder. This cancer is sometimes referred to as periampullary cancer because it can also develop in nearby tissues, such as the pancreas or bile duct.

Most ampullary cancers are adenocarcinomas, which begin in cells lining the inside of the ampulla and producing mucus. These cancers are usually slow-growing and do not spread (metastasize) to other body parts. However, ampullary cancer can be challenging to treat because it is often not caught in its early stages. By the time it is diagnosed, cancer may have spread beyond the ampulla and into nearby tissues.

What causes Ampullary Cancer

The cause of ampullary cancer is unknown but speculated to occur when normal cells in the ampulla start to grow out of control. Symptoms of ampullary cancer include pain in the abdomen, weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and diarrhea or constipation.

Several risk factors for developing ampullary cancer include chronic pancreatitis, familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and specific inherited genetic syndromes such as Lynch syndrome. Smoking is also a risk factor. People with these conditions should discuss ways to reduce risk with their doctor.

How is Ampullary Cancer Diagnosed?

Ampullary cancer is diagnosed through a combination of medical imaging tests, such as CT, MRI, and endoscopic procedures, such as upper endoscopy. A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is used for examination under a microscope, is often needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What are the available treatments?

Treatment for ampullary cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. The treatment type depends on the cancer stage (how far it has spread) and the person’s overall health. Surgery is the most common treatment for ampullary cancer. In some cases, only part of the ampulla needs to be removed. However, a more extensive operation, such as pancreaticoduodenectomy (also called a Whipple procedure), may be necessary if cancer has spread beyond the ampulla.

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are used to treat ampullary cancer. These treatments are given before or after surgery, depending on the cancer stage. Clinical trials testing new therapies for ampullary cancer are always ongoing. People with this condition should speak with their doctor about all treatment options, including clinical trials.

Ampullary cancer is a rare but serious condition. However, treatment has improved recently, and with early diagnosis and proper treatment, patients with ampullary cancer can often lead long and healthy lives.

Cancer Survivors: Ways to Help Others

Posted on by Vino Cherian

If you are a cancer survivor, you may wonder how you can help cancer patients who are still undergoing treatment. A common question among survivors is, “How do I give back?” There are many ways that you can offer support, both practical and emotional.

Few ideas to give back as a survivor:

Offer: One of the best ways to help cancer patients is by offering your time and energy, whether grocery shopping or taking care of kids; giving them a break from having too many responsibilities can do wonders for someone who has just begun or is going through treatment!

Listen: Cancer patients need someone to listen to them without judgment or advice. Just being there for them can be a tremendous support.

Share your story: If you feel comfortable doing so, sharing your own experience with cancer can be very helpful for cancer patients. It can show them that there is hope and that they are not alone.

Bring food: Cancer patients often have particular dietary needs, so bringing them homemade or healthy meals can significantly help.

Help with financial planning: Cancer treatment can be costly, so offering to help cancer patients budget and plan for their expenses can be a tremendous support.

Be there: Sometimes the best thing you can do is be present for cancer patients. Let them know that you care and are available to help in any way you can. Cancer patients often feel isolated and alone, so your support can make a difference.

Others way of giving back a survivor:

There are many ways to give back as a cancer survivor. Survivors can also volunteer their time, donate money, or raise cancer research and treatment awareness. You can find the best way for you and one that makes you feel good. Just know that your experience and knowledge are invaluable and can help cancer patients. Thank you for being an inspiration and a brave warrior!

What have been some of your favorite ways to give back?

Why a second opinion after a cancer diagnosis matters

Posted on by Vino Cherian

Cancer care is an ever-evolving field where new treatments are continuously developed. So, it is always worth getting a second opinion when a person is diagnosed with cancer. Furthermore, research evidence indicates that most early-stage cancer patients are satisfied with the opinion of their first oncologist.

So, what is a second opinion?

A second opinion provides a means to obtain additional input to reassure the patient about the recommended treatment options, feel assured that the initial oncologists correctly diagnosed the patient, and if the most effective treatment plan has been suggested. It can also give patients a chance to explore different treatment options to get more information about the risks and benefits of each option. Second opinions are especially relevant to cases of metastatic cancer.

Furthermore, in some cases, a second opinion may result in a completely different diagnosis, which can majorly impact treatment decisions. Seeking out a second opinion could make all the difference.

A few reasons why a Second Opinion is valuable

1. The Second opinion provides Peace of mind

After a cancer diagnosis, a second opinion can relieve some of the anxiety. When patients have doubts, they should get a second opinion to empower themselves with information and support that helps them make the right decisions and chooses the treatment that provides the best possible outcome.

2. The second opinion provides Different options

The possibility of receiving high-quality care wherever the patient seeks treatment might be there. However, the patient will learn different options they may have by getting a second opinion. Chemotherapy may be an option for patients who may only know about it after seeking a second opinion. Patients may also not realize they could also be a candidate for clinical trials and other therapies without a second opinion.

3. The involvement of a multidisciplinary approach opinion

The participation of a multidisciplinary team that discusses a patient’s treatment options ensures that the oncologist can use the collective knowledge of the entire team to provide a second opinion for each type of cancer.

4. The Support services that make a difference

Because cancer is complicated, having a team and services is vital to making a huge difference. Strong teams that can answer the patient’s questions following the second opinion are:

  • Oncology Nurse Practitioners
  • Oncology Pharmacists
  • Clinical trials recruitment specialists

Finally, cancer care can be expensive, and not everyone can afford to see multiple oncologists. By getting a second opinion, the patient can be sure of making the best possible decision about their health. Furthermore, if the patient cannot afford to see multiple doctors, getting a second opinion can help confirm that the first diagnosis was correct. 

Either way, Second opinions must become a normal part of cancer care.

The Little-known Cancer – Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP)

Posted on by Vino Cherian

CUP, also known as Cancer of unknown primary, is Cancer that has metastasized from another body part. The site where it began, also called the primary site, is unknown in this case.

Why CUP is a challenging cancer?

Cancer of unknown primary is often challenging because it tends to be aggressive and spreads to many body parts when found. Only 2 to 5% of CUP cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. In addition, because the origin of this type of Cancer is unknown, it often is challenging to choose the best treatment. CUPs are usually found in the lymph nodes, liver, lung, peritoneum (lining of the bowel), or bone, and thanks to better diagnostics and screening, they are becoming less common nowadays.

What are the primary causes?

Because the primary site of many of these cancers is unknown, it is hard to predict the primary cause. Even in cases where the primary location is found, the type of Cancer determines the possible risk factors.

Types of CUP cancers

Even when an Oncologists is unable to determine the initial site where the Cancer began, A further microscopic inspection of the cancer cells concludes the Cancer falling into one of the following categories:

  • Neuroendocrine carcinoma: These are cancers that begin in specialized cells called neuroendocrine cells and have traits similar to those of nerve cells and hormone-producing cells. Neuroendocrine tumors are rare and can occur anywhere in the body. Most of this happens in the lungs, appendix, small intestine, rectum, and pancreas.
  • Poorly differentiated carcinoma: Cancer cells are present in this type of CUP, but they do not have enough detail for an oncologist to decide the type of Cancer. Around 10% of these CUP cases are lymphoma, melanoma, or sarcoma.
  • Adenocarcinomas: In six of every ten cancers of unknown primary are adenocarcinomas, beginning in gland cells, with the primary sites in the lung, pancreas, breast, prostate, stomach, liver, or colon.
  • Squamous cell cancer: These cells are flat, similar to cells on the skin or linings of some organs

 

What are the Symptoms of Cancer of Unknown Primary?

While the Symptoms of Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) vary from person to person and depend on where Cancer has spread, patients often experience it.

  • Swollen lymph nodes that are not painful but firm.
  • Abdominal Mass that can be felt from the outside, often causing a feeling of fullness after a small meal
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain in the chest or abdomen
  • Pain in the bones
  • Skin tumors
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Lack of appetite or unexplained weight loss

 

How is CUP Diagnosed?

If an oncologist suspects Cancer of unknown primary, one or more of the following tests may be performed for an accurate diagnosis.

  1. Biopsy
    1. Fine needle aspiration (FNA)
    2. Core needle biopsy
    3. Excisional biopsy
    4. Incisional biopsy
    5. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy
  2. Blood and urine tests
  3. Imaging tests, which may include
    1. X-rays
    2. CT or CAT computed axial tomography) scans
    3. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans
    4. Ultrasound
    5. PET (positron emission tomography) scans
  4. Endoscopy
  5. Colonoscopy

 

What are the available Treatments?

  • Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Brachytherapy
  • 3D-conformal radiation therapy
  • Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
  • Proton therapy
  • Targeted therapies

 

Finally, Cancer of unknown primary is rare, and it’s essential to be aware of the symptoms and see a doctor immediately if you experience any of them. With early diagnosis and treatment, many people with this type of Cancer can beat the disease successfully.

Cancer: A disease we can no longer ignore

Posted on by Vino Cherian

Welcome to cancerGO;

we are honored to have you on your platform. cancerGo is a social network platform where oncologists democratize access to knowledge, interpret cancer medicine for a broader audience, and provide accurate cancer-related information to counteract misinformation. We want to equip patients with the correct information to fight cancer efficiently!

Connecting with cancer patients matters more than ever! We hope we partner with you to share and disseminate information with patients, caregivers, and survivors. We also aim to have a partnership where communication is open and goes both ways. In addition, through cancerGo, you can change oncology by providing perspective outside the four walls of the cancer center by involving patients, advocates, and the public.”

As an oncologist, you can use cancerGo to build interactive strategies, such as direct patient engagement, reaching out to potential patients, and sharing information about your organization or private practice. You can gain a following of patients, and you can not only establish a way to regularly communicate with patients but also pave the way for patients to establish an online community to communicate with each other.

Benefits for Oncologists

Many benefits come with joining cancerGo as an Oncologist.

  • You can play a significant role in getting accurate cancer-related information OUT through a dedicated oncology platform with a dedicated audience.
  • You can connect and have a conversation, either with other experts or peers, to learn and disseminate information.
  • You can advance your career by discussing publications, lectures, and a broader range of issues adjacent to the cancer you treat, including healthcare policy and cancer-care topics.

Summary

Above all, as an oncologist, you can end the stigma faced by patients who receive their cancer diagnosis. CancerGO’s platform is a great way to get your message out to cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers. For those reasons, I thank you for your presence on cancerGo, and together, we will fight to destigmatize cancer. 

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