In this episode of the Oncology Insights Podcast, host Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO, speaks with Lei Deng, MD, a thoracic oncologist at Fred Hutch Cancer Center and the University of Washington, about advances in lung cancer research and patient care.
Deng discusses how precision medicine, immunotherapy and rapid molecular testing are improving outcomes for patients with lung cancer. The conversation also highlights the importance of early detection, team-based care and delivering treatment that reflects patients' values and priorities.
Key topics include:
Deng's path into lung cancer research and thoracic oncology
Advances in targeted therapies and precision oncology for key lung cancer mutations
The role of biomarkers and immunotherapy in treatment decision-making
Innovative clinical trials at Fred Hutch and the University of Washington
Early detection, rapid molecular testing and multidisciplinary care
Patient-centered care, including communication, emotional support and shared decision-making
Timestamps:
00:07 - Introduction to Dr. Lei Deng and her work in thoracic oncology
01:21 - Dr. Deng's pathway into lung cancer research and joining Fred Hutch
02:57 - Exploring current research focus areas and promising trials in precision medicine
07:35 - The significance of MTAP loss and targeted therapy development
10:20 - Rapid access to care and multidisciplinary team collaboration
14:44 - Molecular testing timing and its role in personalized lung cancer treatment
16:46 - Trends in young patients with lung cancer and multifactorial etiology
18:25 - Impact and future of lung cancer screening programs
22:54 - Genetic predisposition and familial risk assessments
24:28 - The importance of patient communication and listening to patient voices
Resources & Links:
Fred Hutch Cancer Center: fredhutch.org
Lei Deng, MD, provider profile: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/provider-directory/lei-deng.html
Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO, provider profile: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/provider-directory/petros-grivas.html
