Shows
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind177. Back to Basics - Early Non Small Cell Lung CancerTo Josh's immense displeasure, our series on genitourinary cancer is done. For now, at least. In this episode, Michael and Josh step into the heavy shadow of non-small cell lung cancer, the most common cause of cancer death in Australia. However, there is hope and new developments in the early-disease space that could significantly improve outcomes. Studies discussed in this episodeCheckmate 816neoADAURAFor more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit www.inquisitiveonc.comPlease find us on Twitter @InquisitiveOnc!If you want us to...
2025-09-1324 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind167. ASCO 2025 - Upper GI and Hepatobiliary Cancer with Dr. James McCrackenToday, hosts Michael and Josh are joined by the wonderful Dr James McCracken to discuss highlights from ASCO 2025 in the areas of upper GI and hepatobiliary cancer. This episode focuses on two items that are (as Michael repetitively insists) "big ticket": MATTERHORN and Destiny-Gastric04. In addition, James gives his thoughts on studies that look at immunotherapy and novel neoadjuvant chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer, and a small study examining a perioperative approach to resectable biliary tract cancer.Studies discussed in the episode:MATTERHORNDestiny-Gastric04NeoIMPACTCASSANDRAGAIN
2025-06-3031 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind128. ESMO 2024 - Day 2Josh and Michael's Spanish Sojourn continues with their review of Day 2 of the European Society of Medical Oncology. Your hosts have been on their feet rushing from lecture theatre to lecture theatre, attending as many incredible presentations and soaking in as much practice-changing information as their brains could manage. In this episode, Michael and Josh report presented data ranging from supportive care to head and neck cancer and so many other fascinating studies in between. Read on to listen to the boys' best bits from Barcelona on Day 2 of ESMO.Studies discussed in this episode:...
2024-09-1530 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind127. ESMO 2024 - Day 1The European Society of Medical Oncology Congress has begun, and Michael and Josh are on the ground, bringing you breaking studies and heartbreaks along with some important updates in the science and art of medical oncology.Michael and Josh cover a range of tumour types on day one, a slight deviation from our regular coverage. They look at hepatocellular carcinoma, renal cancers, and breast cancer, an eclectic but exciting mix of cancer types.Michael investigates HCC treatment with iparomlimab and tuvonaralimab with bevacizumab in a first line setting, along with some updated efficacy...
2024-09-1424 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind108. ASCO 2024 - Metastatic Breast CancerToday, Michael and Josh approach a singular destiny to present their take on Metastatic Breast Cancer at ASCO 2024. Long has Breast Cancer been one of the most diagnosed cancers globally; these days, it leads the herd with effective treatment options and paradigm shifts that benefit millions of people on a massive scale. With CDK4/6 inhibitors, immunotherapy and antibody-drug conjugates, the arsenal of effective treatment tools continues to grow! Nothing excites an oncologist more than a good randomised phase 3 international study. Today, they present the following:Links to studies discussed (subscription may be required):Destiny-Breast06...
2024-06-0634 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind106. ASCO 2024 - MelanomaAs the sun rises on another day at ASCO, Michael and Josh are ready to hit the ground running to bring you the latest and greatest in all things oncology in Chicago has to offer. No greek mythology today, only a burning desire to bring you the biggest melanoma trials from ASCO24. Today, they pack a punch, tackling some intriguing phase 1 trials with tongue-twisting names where the novelty wears off pretty quickly!Links to articles discussed in this episode (subscription may be required): RELATIVITY-048: linkSX-682: linkPIVOTAL: link
2024-06-0431 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind105. ASCO 2024 - Metastatic Non Small Cell Lung Cancer"Tell me, Muse, the story of that resourceful man who was driven to wander far and wide after he had sacked Troy. He saw the cities of many people and he learnt their ways. Tell us this story, goddess daughter of Zeus, beginning at whatever point you will." So begins Homer's epic The Odyssey, the story of the titular hero Odysseus' long, long, LONG journey from the ruins of Troy to his home of Ithaca. Just as Odysseus set out from Troy, so do Michael and Josh begin an "odyssey" of their own. The American Society of Clinical Oncology's 2024...
2024-06-0337 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind104. Metastatic Gastric and GOJ CancerWith ASCO upon us, Michael and Josh squeeze one more episode of their regular schedule to bring you an important update on gastric cancer. For context, the 5 year survival rate for metastatic gastric cancer is 6%, similar to that of pancreatic cancer. Despite improvement in survival due to the addition of nivolumab to chemotherapy (Checkmate 64), few therapies have significantly changed it's overall prognosis.This week Michael and Josh explore the addition of a LAG-3 inhibitor (relatlimab) to the SOC nivolumab and chemotherapy to see if gastric cancers fortune may change. Synergistic evidence has been seen in melanoma...
2024-06-0125 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindOncosnacks 14: Bevacizumab Toxicity (Part 1)In many parts of the world, Bevacizumab is an important component of the treatment of glioblastoma, colorectal, hepatocellular and ovarian cancers. However, with such widespread use inevitably comes toxicity. Side effects related to bevacizumab are not your garden-variety chemotherapy side effects, nor are they similar to toxicity from immunotherapy. Rather, they stand apart, unique amongst our systemic therapies.In their latest Onconack, Josh and Michael take a look at two of the most commonly described toxicities related to bevacizumab: hypertension and proteinuria. This is sure to be a valuable resource to any oncology trainee blessed (or...
2024-05-1415 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind101. Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer UpdateAs many philosophers have noted, life often travels in cycles. Almost two years and more than 100 episodes ago, on a virtual call far far away, two young oncologists started on a journey to bring the latest oncology evidence to anyone with ears and the will to listen. Now, for episode number 101, Josh and Michael return to where it all started: prostate cancer. Much has changed in the (nearly) two years since that episode, and so in this episode, our hosts provide an update on two more recent updates in the prostate cancer space: Michael discusses TALAPRO-2, the latest in...
2024-05-1133 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind100. 100th Episode BonanzaFor 100 episodes, Josh and Michael have brought to your ears the latest and greatest in oncology research and treatment. In this episode, we will take a trip down memory lane, speaking about our journey up to this point, our favourite guests and favourite trials, and give you a glimpse of what the future holds for Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind. If we're honest, we never expected to get this far, and we have you, our wonderful audience to thank for that. We are so grateful for your support, you are the reason we keep coming back every week to...
2024-05-0428 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind99. Early Mutation-Driver Positive NSCLCIn this episode, Josh and Michael examine the rapidly developing world of early lung cancer treatment. An area that will hopefully only grow in importance, treatment for early NSCLC is becoming ever more sophisticated, with recent developments in neoadjuvant management and confirmation of the benefit of adjuvant driver-mutation inhibitior treatment. Today's articles cover two such topics: will osimertinib finally reach the pinnacle it was born to reach and be used in the neoadjuvant treatment of EGFR-mutant NSCLC? Will alectinib join its older, more successful cousin in being effective in resected ALK-mutant NSCLC? Listen on to find...
2024-04-2733 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind98. Breast Cancer with Dr Adam BrufskyOn this very special episode, Josh and Michael welcome Dr Adam Brufsky, a trailblazer in the world of breast cancer treatment and a titan in the frenetic development of breast cancer therapies since the mid-late 90s. Dr Brufsky is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Chief of the university's Division of Haematology and Oncology and co-director of its Comprehensive Cancer Centre. He received his MD and PhD from the University of Connecticut's School of Medicine in 1990 and has previously worked at Bringham and Women's Hospital and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. His areas of...
2024-04-2057 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindFireside Chats 3: Colorectal Cancer in Young PeopleOn today's blessedly brief episode, Josh and Michael give an overview of one of the greatest challenges for any practicing oncologist: the conundrum of cancer in young people. In recent decades, the number and proportion of young patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer has skyrocketed. This trend has been noted in news outlets across the world, reported in sources as disparate as the New York Times and the Australian Broadcasting Company. From the medical to the logistical and emotional, managing a young person with a cancer diagnosis is very difficult. While neither of our intrepid hosts has an answer to...
2024-04-1316 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind97. Spotlight: Advanced Breast Cancer - Which CDK4/6 Inhibitor is Best?It is a tale as old as time, as old as the stars, the heavens and human consciousness itself. Okay, we're exaggerating a bit, but for as long as pharmacology and capitalism have been joined at the hip, the question of "which drug is best" has been at or near the forefront of medical decision-making. With the development of standardised clinical trials and the difficulty of conducting direct head-to-head comparisons, this question has become more difficult to answer conclusively. Nowhere is this epitomised better than with the triptych of available CDK4/6 inhibitors: palbociclib, ribociclib and abemaciclib. A lot of...
2024-04-0625 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind96. Second Line Treatment of MelanomaIn this episode, Michael and Josh welcome a very special guest: Michael's Labrador Beans. Beans is a world-renowned expert in eating snacks, but unfortunately, had very little to offer on their topic today: the treatment of progressive or recurrent cutaneous melanoma with primary and secondary resistance to immunotherapy. So, unfortunately, the discussion was left to your regular hosts. For approximately 50% of patients, this is fortunately not a question they need to worry about, as immunotherapy and BRAF/MEK inhibitors remain effective treatments. However, that still leaves half of all patients facing an uncertain future, as treatment...
2024-03-3039 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind95. ASCO GU 2024 Spectacular (Part 2)While Josh and Michael enjoy a good rambling, meandering podcast as much as the next guy, we made a promise to keep our coverage of the ASCO GU 2024 conference short and sweet. So, as promised, here is the second - and final - episode of our miniseries. For a change of pace, one of our studies involves the adjuvant use of immunotherapy! Specifically, AMBASSADOR looks at pembrolizumab in patients with early urothelial cancer, a patient cohort that is crying out for more effective treatments for early-stage disease. Meanwhile, Josh tries to "BRCAAway" from our comfort zone by discussing the...
2024-03-2324 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind94. ASCO GU 2024 Spectacular (Part 1)With Josh's Grand Adventure(TM) now in the books, he and Michael return to their usual programming, examining two studies presented at the not-so-recent ASCO GU conference in San Fransisco. While the conference took place in January of this year, as the old adage goes: better late than never. In this episode, our hosts examine two studies; the CONTACT-02 study examining a combination of immunotherapy + cabozantinib in patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, and an update from the KEYNOTE-564 that examined whether pembrolizumab had any benefit in the adjuvant treatment of renal cell cancer. Will either of these studies...
2024-03-1630 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind86. On the Road with Dr. Erica MayerToday, we interview Dr. Erica Mayer as our first guest in the "On the Road" mini-series. Dr. Mayer is a renowned breast cancer oncologist at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. Each week for the next seven weeks, Michael and Josh will introduce a new guest to share their wealth of experience, expertise and wisdom, covering all the essential topics from career development, mentorship and necessary trials and challenges in the oncology world.Dr. Mayer graduated from Harvard Medical School and completed a fellowship in Medical Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Erica is the Director of...
2024-01-2745 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind85. Spotlight: Year in Retrospect: 2023Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind is back, and we have a blockbuster year ahead! Before we get there, we have our year in review 2023. Michael and Josh have poured over the treasure trove of pivotal trials from 2023 to bring you the best studies (in our opinion) from the last 365 days! We used various complex metrics involving no science or maths at all.Just when you thought you were free from oncology learning, we drag you back in, much like Al Pacino's character from The Godfather is famously quoted saying, "Just when I thought I was out...
2024-01-2029 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind84. World Conference on Lung Cancer (part 2)2023 has been a year of highs and lows, a calendar of peaks and troughs, an epoch of mountains and valleys (all right Michael, put the thesaurus away...). From standing ovations for enfortumab vedotin and vorasidenib, to the ongoing black hole that is effective treatments for pancreatic and hepatocellular carcinomas. However, through it all the brightest minds in the field have continued to stoke the fires of hope with the development of novel antibody-drug conjugates, immunotherapies and clever applications of established treatments.How fitting, then, that Josh and MIchael - definitely NOT amongst the brightest minds in...
2023-12-3028 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind83. World Conference on Lung Cancer (part 1)ASCO and ESMO are done, and soon, 2023 itself will be in the rearview mirror. And yet, there are still conferences happening around the world; yes, we know the World Conference on Lung Cancer occurred before ESMO, but there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. Join Michael and Josh on their latest virtual journey abroad, this time to the equatorial island of Singapore, as they report on two of their favourite studies from WCLC 2023. For those who celebrate, have a Merry Christmas and a happy festive season.Links to studies discussed in...
2023-12-2336 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindOncosnacks 12: Enfortumab Vedotin skin toxicity managementOn this episode, their final of 2023, Michael and Josh return to the world of recent fan favourite, enfortumab vedotin (EV). Not content to sing its praises from every rooftop, our intrepid hosts take the necessary step of examining the common and sometimes severe manifestations of dermatological toxicity deriving from EV. With the assistance of a recently published guideline, they examine the presentation, assessment and management of skin toxicity.From all of us at OftiM, we would like to thank you for joining us throughout 2023, and we wish you a very happy festive season....
2023-12-1915 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind82. Metastatic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC)Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind would like to issue a formal mae culpa to our listeners. You have joined us for over 12 months and over 80 episodes and listened to our ramblings and bad jokes. And it has taken 80 episodes for us to realise we have neglected the crucial and exciting subject of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). But fear not! We will rectify this egregious oversight with immediate effect. TNBC remains the scourge of the usually more optimistic breast cancer space. However, the fight of the world's oncologists continues across all fronts, and TNBC is no different. In today's...
2023-12-1635 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindFireside Chats 2. Time Toxicity in Early Phase TrialsFor patients with advanced cancer, early-phase trials may represent the last best hope of significant anticancer response. For clinicians, every early phase trial holds virtually unlimited promise and hope of becoming the next immunotherapy or hot antibody-drug conjugate. However, early-phase trials also come with significant uncertainty of efficacy, toxicity and even dosing.A recent Limbic article (link below) reported on an article published in ESMO Open that investigated the burden of "time toxicity" for patients enrolled in early-phase clinical trials, and advocated for this to be minimised. While it is essential to consider logistic factors and...
2023-12-1222 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind77. ESMO 2023 - Non Small Cell Lung CancerNon-small cell lung cancer continues to show massive promise with new trials, better designs and exciting utilisation of existing therapies. Michael and Josh explore immunotherapy in a "sandwich setting" where nivolumab is given before and after surgery. Datopotamab deruxtecan, the new kid on the block, takes on the second-line champion docetaxel. Who will win, and will docetaxel finally be dethroned? And potentially the most promising and exciting addition to this lineup is AZD7789, a new bispecific antibody TIM-3 being added to existing immunotherapy to try and resensitise cancer to PD-1 inhibitors!Studies discussed in today's episode...
2023-11-0232 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind71. ESMO 2023 - Early Breast Cancer (Part 1)Every so often, an area of medical oncology has so many interesting presentations at a seminal conference that it becomes impossible to leave them out. At such times, Josh and Michael merely shrug their shoulders and say "why don't we do all of them." ESMO 2023 is one such instance. Despite their best efforts, our intrepid duo were unable to narrow down their presentation of early breast cancer highlights to one episode, so they are going to do two (for the price of one).Articles discussed in this episode. Subscription may be requiredPrognostic and predictive...
2023-10-2524 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind69. ESMO 2023 - Metastatic Breast CancerMichael and Josh continue their examination of the crème-de-la-crème of the European Society of Medical Oncology conference of 2023. Today they focus on metastatic breast cancer, with a particular focus on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). T-Dxd, Dato-Dxd and trastuzumab duocarmazine are just three of the many novel agents in this space, and likely represent part of the future (and the present) of medical oncology. How effective are these treatments? Will the final results of the TULIP study blossom like its namesake? Will T-Dxd fulfil its DESTINY and become a treatment option for HER-2 low advanced breast cancer? Will Dato-Dxd as...
2023-10-2431 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind68. ESMO 2023 - Central Nervous System TumorsAnother year, another international oncology conference in a beautiful European locale. In 2023, the world's oncology community has descended on the Spanish capital Madrid to discuss the latest and greatest scientific developments in Medical Oncology. And as always seems to be the case, Michael and Josh remain at home listening to this avalanche of information virtually. Despite a distinct lack of sun and Español, our intrepid duo will continue a grand tradition that dates back to 2022: bringing some of the best highlights from Madrid directly to your ears across a series of episodes to be released this week.
2023-10-2328 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind67. Spotlight: Head and Neck Cancer: Docetaxel as a RadiosensitiserCisplatin is the mainstay for concurrent chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancers. What happens to that significant group of patients who cannot have cisplatin? Michael and Josh focus on this challenging subgroup of patients. Can docetaxel be used as an alternative? This week, they debut a small but significant segment of our humble podcast called "Spotlight", where we dive deep into a single potentially practice-changing trial. Enjoy!Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):Docetaxel as a radiosensitiser: https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/jco.22.00980#:~:text=We%20found%20that%20...
2023-10-1424 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind66. Gynae-Oncology with Dr Vish BoolellGynaecological malignancies are a diverse group of terrible malignancies. From ovarian to endometrial to cervical, these cancers are notorious not just for their mortality burden, but the significant morbidity that they can inflict. To explore how to combat these challenging clinical entities, Michael and Josh interview Dr Vish Boolell, a clinical oncologist who brings his vast practical and trial experience to bear in exploring how to best treat patients and manage the myriad challenges gynaecological cancer can present. Today's episode is a must-listen for anyone who has been confronted by a malignant bowel obstruction, or wondered about the significance...
2023-10-0744 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind64. Metastatic Neuroendocrine Carcinomas"I have not failed, I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work!" so said Thomas Edison in describing his journey to the incandescent light bulb. This quote seemed appropraite as Michael and Josh conclude their journey in the neuroendocrine space and discuss neuroendocrine carcinomas (and poorly differentiated metastatic neuroendocrine tumours). Sometimes when you working in the oncological world, we all feel a bit like Thomas Edison, pouring sweat and tears into research that doesn't live up to expectations. But much like Thomas Edison, each step in this journey could revolutionise humanity or oncology, much like the CDK4/6 inhibitors, immunotherapy or...
2023-09-2332 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind63. Advanced Grade 3 Neuroendocrine Tumours - Chemotherapy optionsNeuroendocrine Tumours could be described as an impassable obstacle, more complicated the more you research. That's where Michael and Josh come in, and this week, explore Grade 3 metastatic neuroendocrine tumours. Michael provides a brilliant overview of this well-differentiated cohort and the lack of efficacy platinum chemotherapies have, while Josh discusses CAPTEM (temozolomide and capecitabine) through a systematic review. Interestingly many of the current data is retrospectively collected, highlighting how challenging it is to collect enough patients to pursue meaningful research.Note- there is a quote from Lance Armstrong, who was stripped of his titles due to...
2023-09-1629 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind62. Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumour - Later Lines of Therapy"We go to the moon and other places not because they are easy, but because they are hard." So spoke US President John F. Kennedy, in a speech that galvanised the American public and fostered widespread support for the space race and the Apollo space program that would culminate in Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landing on the Moon on July 20, 1969. A similar approach must be taken to the treatment of neuroendocrine tumours, a rare and difficult-to-treat cancer type requiring inventiveness, preparation and lateral thinking (almost) on the level of the Apollo and Soyuz astronauts.Last...
2023-09-0927 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind61. Fireside Chats: What We Call "Cancer"Between 1933 and 1944, Americans huddled around their radios to listen to the words of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. Covering topics ranging from the 1936 recession to World War II, FDR titled these addresses "Fireside Chats", giving very high-concept topics a more personal, intimate feel. Let it never be said that Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind is above shamelessly cribbing ideas from history.In this series, on the first Wednesday of each month, Josh and Michael will go away from their usual format of data dissection. They will instead turn their attention to...
2023-09-0625 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind60. Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumours - Part 1Neuroendocrine tumours (commonly referred to as NETs) is the topic for this week's episode of Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind. Michael and Josh thought it could be easily covered in a single episode, but they were wrong. This is not dissimilar to the recurrent cancellation of Futurama, a television series with nine lives saved by every network in existence.Neuroendocrine tumours are a diverse, heterogeneous, rare group of cancers that can occur throughout the body. The most common location is the gastrointestinal tract, lung, and pancreas. Of course, these aren't the only locations with NETs forming...
2023-09-0228 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind59. Testicular Cancer - Part 2Previously, on Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, Josh and Michael discussed the common systemic therapies available for early and advanced testicular cancer: single-dose carboplatin and bleomycin + etoposide + cisplatin (BEP). However, like the beginning of any good story, this is just the beginning. All the knowledge of chemotherapy in the world is nothing without knowing how to apply it. In this episode, our hosts attempt to tackle this very topic, dissecting the when, where and why of the treatment of testicular cancer. Consider this your Hitchikers' Guide to Germ Cell Tumours.Useful Links from this Episode:
2023-08-2628 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 10: Thrombophlebitis and Superficial Venous ThrombosisOn this, the tenth episode of OncoSnacks, Josh and Michael discuss the management of a common but no less important problem: superficial venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis. While for the majority of cases the treatment is purely symptomatic, in a small minority of cases superficial venous thromboses can be a precursor of more serious thromboembolic events. This broad range of possible outcomes makes the management and risk stratification of apparently minor thromboses all the more important, particularly in the oncology patient population. Listen on as Josh and Michael aim to shed some light in this dark topic....
2023-08-2217 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind57. ROS1 and KRAS Mutated Lung CancerIn this episode, the Nautilus reaches its final destination, where Michael and Josh pursue a deeper understanding of ROS1, and KRAS mutated lung cancer. ROS1 reflected less than 3% of non-small cell lung cancer, while KRAS is abundant and can reflect up to 25% of lung cancer patients. The challenge lies in the targets, with the only approved KRAS treatment sotorasib targeting a single KRASG12C mutation. Many, many more KRAS mutations exist in the wild. Michael uses his oxygen tank to discuss an integrated efficacy and safety analysis of entrectinib, and Josh breaks free of a shark and highlights the...
2023-08-1237 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind56. ALK-mutant Metastatic Lung CancerIn this episode, Michael and Josh step onto the oncological Nautilus, to begin their journey 20,000 Leagues Under Lung Cancer, to examine non-small cell lung cancer with mutations other than EGFR. The first step on their journey is discussing the anaplastic lymphoma kinase, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor associated with the development of non-small cell lung cancer in younger patients who have never smoked. Thankfully, unlike their previous episode, there are treatment options galore for patients with ALKmut NSCLC. Two of the contenders for the title of "The King of the ALK" are alectinib and lorlatinib. Alectinib has more robust overall...
2023-08-0526 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind55. Extensive-Stage Small Cell Lung CancerThere are cancers that grow slowly. There are cancers that do not grow at all. And then there are cancer's like today's subject, that are notorious not just for their ability to completely overcome a patient in a very small amount of time. Extensive-stage small cell lung cancer remains a very difficult condition to treat, highly prone to relapse and with few effective options beyond - or perhaps even including - the first line setting. While the medical and scientific community remain stalwart in their quest for therapeutic options, success stories have been few and far between. In this...
2023-07-2930 minOncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 9: Chemotherapy ExtravasationChemotherapy extravasation can occur day or night, and one must always be vigilant. While many agents are irritants and may not pose significant risks, vesicants pose a different story. A tale of danger and intrigue, this situation can lead to the involvement of a friendly neighbourhood surgeon or Spiderman. In worst-case scenarios, significant tissue damage, treatment delay, and a sizeable psychological burden on the patient can occur. In this OncoSnacks episode, Michael and Josh explore this world, highlighting potential agents and how to prevent, diagnose and manage them.For more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit...
2023-07-2518 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind54. Cancer Survivorship with Dr Ash MalalasekeraCancer is thought of as a great killer, an indefatigable bogeyman that claims the lives of everyone it afflicts. However, advances in medicine mean that for more people than ever before, cancer is something that people can survive or at least live with for longer. While an incredible achievement, this does raise many new challenges for patients and physicians alike. And thus, the concept of Cancer Survivorship was born, a service that aims to fill the gap in service for patients who have survived, or are surviving with cancer but may feel somewhat adrift in stormy seas.
2023-07-2249 minOncology for the Inquisitive Mind53. Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and Lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS)DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) and LCIS (lobular carcinoma in situ) are challenging areas of breast cancer oncology. Michael and Josh return from their short hiatus to find their podcast has been ranked one of the top oncology podcasts by feedspot. Do not fear; they won't rest on their laurels and are ready to roll and bring another exciting episode of management, intrigue, and choose your adventure. Neither DCIS nor LCIS are technically cancer, but they both have the propensity to develop into a malignancy. The benefit versus toxicity question becomes paramount in the episode when talking to patients...
2023-07-1539 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind52. ASCO 2023 - Plenary SessionTheodore Roosevelt is famously quoted saying: "It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed." This is what ASCO, oncologists and cancer researchers are faced with daily. As our tour de force of ASCO 2023 ends, and we foresee a future where daily episodes don't arrive, we present our final episode. Michael and Josh have kept three of the most exciting trials until the end.Today, three plenary sessions are reviewed. The first is in gliomas, the second in adjuvant lung cancer treatment, and finally, Michael and Josh tackle M...
2023-06-1324 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind51. ASCO 2023 - Melanoma & Head and NeckThe epic journey of Josh and Michael across tumour streams at ASCO 2023 is approaching its end. It has been a whirlwind tour through groundbreaking science, hazard ratios and exciting glimpses into a brighter future for cancer patients. However, our intrepid duo's work is not yet done, merely reached its penultimate stage. In today's episode, Josh and Michael examine four notable studies in the spheres of melanoma and head and neck cancer. Spoiler alert: in this part of the map, here there be groundbreaking studies!StudiesFianlimab + cemiplimab: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/218502...
2023-06-1227 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind50. ASCO 2023 - Metastatic NSCLCEvery epic journey has that moment when the end is in sight. The start of the last lap of the race, the final dramatic encounter with the main villain. On this episode of Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, that villain is metastatic lung cancer, with a particular focus on EGFR mutant disease. There have been a lot of questions raised about the best next step after the failure of the star of ASCO 2023: osimertinib. Here, Josh and Michael examine three breaking studies that seek to shed some light on the slowly-unravelling mystery of how to best sequence and treat...
2023-06-1122 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind49. ASCO 2023 - Metastatic Breast CancerCancer is facing a seismic shift as precision oncology is becoming a reality, and adoption is skyrocketing as new anti-cancer agents are released. It appears that the days of blunt-force chemotherapy could be limited. Paul Ehrlich, the German Chemist, is credited with the term "chemotherapy", but more importantly, the concept of the magic bullet, "zauberkugel", which would allow selective targeting of pathogenic microbes without affecting other parts of the body. Leading the field of targeting cancer is metastatic breast cancer, as demonstrated by ASCO23. Oncology for the inquisitive Mind explores CDK4/6 sequencing, antibody-drug conjugates, and HER3 targeted therapy. Michael...
2023-06-1021 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind48. ASCO 2023 - Prostate, Bladder and Renal CancerASCO 23 explored novel anti-cancer agents in the genitourinary space. The future of oncology is etching closer daily. In this episode, Michael and Josh dissect ertafitinib, an FGFR inhibitor used in bladder cancer, talazoparib in prostate cancer and immunotherapy and TKI combinations in renal cell cancer. All these studies reflect the desire to target cancers further with some astonishing results. StudiesTHOR: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/217894PEACE-1: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/218388TALAPRO-2: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/222733RENAL CELL CARCINOMA: https://meetings.asco.org/2023-asco-annual-meeting/15007?presentation=219853#219853
2023-06-0930 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind47. ASCO 2023 - Colorectal CancerASCO 2023 has been an incredible journey, and the latest instalment of Michael and Josh's search for the latest and greatest oncological news is no exception. On this episode, our intrepid duo examine three studies with potentially practice-changing consequences, like Burton and Speke quest for the source of the River Nile. Which, in this ASCO series is literally just another day at the office. But will the presented evidence live up to the promise provided by its premise? You'll have to listen on to find out!StudiesDestiny-CRC02: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/218394...
2023-06-0822 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind46. ASCO 2023 - Early Lung CancerIn this episode, Michael and Josh investigate Lung Oncology research presented at ASCO 23, specifically early lung cancer treatment. They discuss Perioperative Toripalimab, LAG3 inhibitor Relatlimab and the new novel agent BI 764532, a novel DLL3-targeting T cell engaged.Studies:NEOTORCH: https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2023.41.36_suppl.425126NEOPREDICT: https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2023.41.16_suppl.8500DLL3-positive SCLC: https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/JCO.2023.41.16_suppl.8502Many thanks to Merck for supporting this episode. Merck provided virtual access to ASCO 2023 but did not review or approve any part...
2023-06-0722 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind45. ASCO 2023 - Gynaecologic CancersOvarian, cervical and endometrial cancer need more treatment options. Platinum-based chemotherapy only works for so long. ASCO 23 delivers with the practice-changing MIRASOL study introducing Mirvetuximab Soravtansine, a novel ADC with efficacy in ovarian cancer. Michael and Josh also discuss the Oval Study (ofranergene obadenovec) and immunotherapy in the DUO-O trial and Keynote 826. Not all trials are equal, and this OftIM ASCO special explores endpoints, hazard ratios and comparisons.Stay tuned for daily ASCO updates from the OFTIM team, Michael and Josh.Studies:MIRASOL: https://meetings.asco.org/abstracts-presentations/226803OVAL...
2023-06-0634 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind43. ASCO 2023 - Early Hormone Receptor Positive Breast CancerHormone receptor-positive breast cancer again takes centre stage at the ASCO 23 (American Society of Clinical Oncology) Annual Meeting and has reinvented itself over the last two decades. Improvements are occurring in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant setting for both estrogen (ER) and progesterone (PR) positive and the human epidermal growth factor receptor space (HER2). In this episode, Michael and Josh take a closer look at MonarchE (Abemaciclib), NATALEE (Ribociclib), PHERgain (dose de-escalation) and Penelope-B (ctDNA).As the arsenal for treating breast cancer grows, a crowded space means ongoing challenges with sequencing and choice of therapy.
2023-06-0433 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind42. ASCO 2023 - Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic and Hepatobiliary updateASCO 23 (American Society of Clinical Oncology) Annual Meeting in Chicago showcased a plethora of cutting-edge trials and research. Upper gastrointestinal cancers such as gastric, pancreatic and hepatobiliary are usually relegated to the backstage, but this year, several exciting and potentially practice-changing studies (not without their limitations).We explore a new PD-1Toripalimab in gastric and gastroesophageal cancer, liposomal irinotecan in NALIRIFOX versus gemcitabine/abraxane in metastatic pancreatic cancer, neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX in pancreatic cancer and the new HER2 kid on the block zanidatamab, a bispecific monoclonal antibody.Stay tuned for daily ASCO updates from...
2023-06-0430 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 8: Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral NeuropathyPeripheral neuropathy is a common toxicity of multiple anticancer agents used to treat and cure cancer, including platinum, taxanes and vinca alkaloids chemotherapy. These chemotherapy classes are as ubiquitous for cancer treatment as the sun is to plant photosynthesis. This week on OncoSnacks, Michael and Josh investigate what to do when a patient has peripheral neuropathy and examine existing evidence for prevention, treatment and duration of this sequelae.For more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit www.inquisitiveonc.comFind us on Twitter @InquisitiveOnc!If you want us to look at a...
2023-05-3022 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind40. Advanced Endometrial CancerIt is always nice to be able to say the phrase: "This cancer has an excellent prognosis." That is the case with endometrial cancer, which for the majority of sufferers, can be cured and carries an excellent survival. However, there are cases that unfortunately present late, and for these patients, the outlook is significantly more grim.Some oncologists have little experience treating advanced endometrial cancer; for those listeners, this episode is specifically for you! In our 40th episode, Josh will discuss the foundations of endometrial cancer treatment, a topic that is vital but very boring, much...
2023-05-2737 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind39. Leadership, Policy and Teletrials with Prof Sabe SabesanCOSA President-elect (Clinical Oncology Society Australia), Professor Sabe Sabesan, is the oncologist and doctor we all dreamed of being when starting our medical training. This is a story of adversity, compassion and drive without compromise. Sabe's global journey has taken him to some of the remotest places on earth, with each inflection point creating new challenges and opportunities. We discuss advocacy, the rollout of teletrials to improve equitable access, redefining system issues with the lasagna model and looking after the little guy. Michael and Josh are the OFTIM team and are humbled to share Sabe's story, a tale many...
2023-05-2049 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 7: Cardiotoxicity with Dr Mark NolanOn Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, we like to focus on cancer and available treatment options. However, every oncologist is at his or her best when working hand-in-hand with other specialities. In this, our seventh episode of OncoSnacks, Michael and Josh interview Dr Mark Nolan, a non-invasive cardiologist with a special interest in anti-cancer treatment-induced cardiotoxicity. Mark provides an engaging, comprehensive overview of the diagnosis and management of cardiotoxicity, with a particular focus on the two usual culprits: anthracyclines and anti-HER2 agents. A must listen for anyone who has been confronted with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 40...
2023-05-1618 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind38. Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma - Rare Cancer SnapshotAdenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC) is a rare cancer commonly found in the head and neck region, arising from glandular salivary tissue. Like many orphan cancers, effective treatments in the metastatic setting are needed desperately. The 5-year survival rate is 80% and declines over time. In this special subseries: Rare Cancer Snapshots, Michael and Josh pour over the evidence for ACC, pathophysiology and the treatment paradigm to date.For more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit www.inquisitiveonc.comFind us on Twitter @InquisitiveOnc!If you want us to look at a specific trial...
2023-05-1327 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind37. Metastatic Castrate Resistant Prostate Cancer- Theranostics and ChemotherapyLutetium PSMA (Lutetium-177), theranostic medicine and future advances in prostate cancer are coming to an oncology centre near you faster than you can say "novel drug development" and "progression-free survival". This week Michael and Josh conclude their epic prostate cancer trilogy by exploring theranostic medicine and radioactive drug development while looking at the past of the cytotoxic world and the role of cabazitaxel. To ensure we keep your attention, six trials are discussed today, and a shout out to TheraP, the Australian phase 2 trial from the land down under.Links to studies discussed in this episode (s...
2023-05-0644 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind35. Castration-Resistant Prostate CancerIn the second episode of our prostate-cancer series, we investigate the inevitability of castration resistance: the biochemical, radiological and clinical progression of prostate cancer despite the best efforts of the heroic MDT. While this space will likely change in the coming years, with many novel anti-androgen agents displaying efficacy in the HSPC space, the current standards of care for patients include docetaxel and the dynamic duo of abiraterone + prednisolone and enzalutamide. These latter two agents are frequently used in the first line when a patient cannot or is unlikely to tolerate docetaxel chemotherapy.However, there can only...
2023-04-2238 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 6: Immunotherapy-related Thyroid Disorders with Endocrinologist Dr Dahlia DavidoffEndocrinopathies in immunotherapy-related cancer treatment are common! Most of us will experience patients with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism regularly and recurrently in everyday practice. The incidence is variable, with some sources stating as high as 40% and others as low as 10%; either way, oncologists and trainees are likely to be close allies with their friendly neighbourhood endocrinologist. This week on Oncosnacks, Michael and Josh are interviewing Dr Dahlia Davidoff, an endocrinologist at North Shore Private Hospital in Sydney. Dahlia completed her specialist training through the prestigious Alfred Health and is currently a PhD student researching endocrine cancers at the Kolling Institute o...
2023-04-1819 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind34. Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer (2)J.R.R. Tolkien. George Lucas. Steven Spielberg. With such seminal trilogies as Star Wars, the Lord of the Rings and Indiana Jones achieving a permanent place in the psyche of everyday life, who would have thought there would be room for more? But fear not, because Michael and Josh are here with their take on the age-old formula, with the first in a trilogy of episodes on prostate cancer. Just as Luke Skywalker discovered his heritage and embarked on an epic quest against the Empire, so too do our heroes take their first steps in a fight of...
2023-04-1546 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind33. Ageism and Geriatric Oncology with Dr Michael KrasovitskyAgeism is an inherent bias seen throughout medicine, with cancer adding complexity to an already difficult set of circumstances. Despite our best efforts, we all must face growing older, with time itself being that unstoppable force. Over 50% of all new cancer diagnoses are in the over-65 age bracket, which will climb as ageing populations become a reality across the globe. This week, Michael and Josh interview the charismatically delightful Dr Michael Krasovitksy, a staunch supporter and advocate of self-empowerment, geriatric oncology and self-determination in the oncological world. Multiple thought-provoking topics are covered, including ageism, toxicity, symptom...
2023-04-0856 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncosnacks 5: Anti-Cancer Treatment-Induced AlopeciaThis episode of OncoSnacks pays homage to the lack of eyebrows, eyelashes and hair many patients face when undergoing cancer treatment and the resultant alopecia. While chemotherapy is the most wanted agent, it alone is not to blame. Michael and Josh explore the hairy situation of hair loss that faces many of our patients as they navigate a new world of outpatient clinic appointments, infusion centres and a new reality in how they live and look.No eyebrows were injured during the making of this episode.For more episodes, resources and blog posts...
2023-04-0414 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind31. Metastatic Head and Neck CancerMichael and Josh welcome back Dr Andrew Jensen to help explore part two of OftiM's Head and Neck Cancer exploration party. With localised treatments done and dusted, the metastatic space is a daunting heterogeneous disease group. Twenty years ago, head and neck treatment relied on tried and true chemotherapy, but the last fifteen years have shown great strides regarding treatment options and outcomes. The first leap forward was cetuximab added to a chemotherapy backbone, making it the weapon of choice for oncologists worldwide. But like all great civilisations, pembrolizumab now dominates, showing how it can be effective when combined...
2023-03-2547 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind30. Early Head and Neck Cancer30 episodes ago, two young doctors took their first steps into the podcasting sphere, stumbling like two newborn foals birthed into a paddock full of fully functioning stallions, presenting a niche. Since then, they have blossomed before your ears into two vaguely competent podcasters, still finding their feet but growing in confidence, if not skill. Our continued existence, we owe entirely to you, our wonderful audience. You are the reason we continue to front up to our microphones every week, often wearing our pyjamas but that's beside the point. What we're trying to say is thank you, from the bottom...
2023-03-1841 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 4: Immune-Mediated PneumonitisThis episode of OncoSnacks kicks off Michael and Josh's sojourn into the wide world of immune-mediated adverse effects. Inevitably, as most blowhards do, they begin with the lungs. Immune-mediated pneumonitis is not as common as endocrine-axis abnormalities, dermatitis or colitis, but it can be insidious and devastating in equal measure. Such is the potential impact that must be considered in any patient who has received immunotherapy and presents with dyspnoea or a dry cough. Listen to learn more, and you will also know what irAEs and Senator Joseph McCarthy have in common.Guidelines for the management...
2023-03-1420 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind29. Metastatic Hormone Receptor (HR) Positive Breast CancerFive hundred years ago, Christopher Columbus set forth to explore unknown lands. You might be asking, what do Chris and metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer have in common? The answer lies in his diaries, a tale of two men, with one aptly providing anatomical details of our subject today. While we spend little time exploring Christopher, Michael and Josh meet and greet three famed Cyclin Dependant Kinase Inhibitors (CDK4/6) commonly known as Ribociclib, Abemaciclib and Palbociclib. While not all equal in stature, they have revolutionised metastatic breast cancer and now stand as first-line therapy and the gold standard of...
2023-03-1144 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind28. ASCO GU 2023 SpectacularFor the second time in 2023, Josh and Michael discuss some of the hardest-hitting highlights from a conference; in this case, they dive into five studies that caught their eye at the recent ASCO GU Conference in, in Michael's words, "sunny California." We think he is simply jealous of the fact that Melbourne barely has sunshine for most of the year. Never fear: the amount of grousing about the weather pales in comparison to the clinical pearls, future projections and terrible puns.Studies Discussed: ARASENS, CaboPoint, TALAPRO, HCRN GU14-188, PROpel, TROPHY-U-01, CAPTUREFor...
2023-03-0439 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 3: Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and VomitingIn this episode of OncoSnacks, Josh and Michael address the classic chemotherapy side effect: nausea. From Terms of Endearment (1983) to ER (2002), from Breaking Bad (2008) to Archer (2011), nausea and vomiting are the most frequently imagined side effects when it comes to chemotherapy. However, we are much better at managing chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) than we once were; a combination of better antiemetics and move away from highly emetic therapies means patients are usually much better off perspective. Nevertheless, in the words of great ancient oncologist Sun Tzu: "if one knows oneself, and knows the neuronal pathways associated with chemotherapy-induced...
2023-02-2819 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind27. High Grade Gliomas and Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)Concluding their Journey to the Centre of the Brain, Michael and Josh tackle one of the most challenging and difficult cancers in modern oncology: high-grade gliomas. All of the usual suspects are here: irrevocable, progressive disease, limited treatment options and a gulf in evidence so large it makes the Grand Canyon look like a muddy footprint. All in all, not the most optimistic of OftiM episodes, but Josh and Michael will tackle it anyway so you don't have to. And remember: always refer your fit GBM patients to a friendly neighbourhood trials unit near you!Links...
2023-02-2548 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind26. Neuro-OncologyOncology for the Inquisitive Mind finally embarks on the treacherous journey of neuro-oncology. While researching for this episode, Michael and Josh realised that effective treatments are limited but do not reduce neuro-oncology's complexity. This is a hefty episode covering low-grade gliomas, oligodendroglioma, astrocytomas and the important molecular markers and how these influence survival and prognosis for our patients. It also talks about the new WHO classification of primary brain tumours and how it has affected the interpretation of prior research.Tune in for part one of this special mini-series covering neuro-oncologyLink: https...
2023-02-1843 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 2: Chemotherapy-induced DiarrheaIn our second bite-sized episode, Michael and Josh explore the challenge of chemotherapy-induced diarrhoea, a common problem for patients leading to morbidity, hospital admissions, and potentially stopping curative treatments early. While immunotherapy and targeted therapy are not innocent bystanders regarding colitis and bowel problems, chemotherapy has long been the most prominent protagonist of this story. It is essential to identify warning signs, investigate adequately and see the treatment options available to you, the saviour and potential part-time plumber. Tune in and find out more!eviQ reference guide on diarrhea: https://www.eviq.org.au/clinical-resources/side-effect-and-toxicity-management...
2023-02-1418 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind25. ASCO GI 2023 ExtravaganzaIn the grand, six-month-long tradition of Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, Josh and Michael provide an update from an international meeting to keep you right up to date with the latest and greatest developments in their field. This week's special is the ASCO GI Symposium, held in Moscone, California, and brought to your ears from Melbourne. From two guys in their pyjamas. Who would much rather be in Moscone, California.At any rate, updates abound in this OftiM special. Listen on so you too can crest the wave of Gastrointestinal Oncology!Studies Discussed: NAPOLI 3...
2023-02-1158 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind24. Metastatic Renal Cell CancerOncology for the Inquisitive Mind returns to its regular broadcasting schedule and discusses metastatic renal cell cancer (ccRCC). As not to be outdone, Josh takes a cultural tangent exploring the world of opera after seeing "The Hours" broadcast through Met: Live in HD. While Josh doesn't sing this episode, he highlights this opera's parallels with cancer patients undergoing treatment. To avoid losing sight of this podcast's purpose, Michael and Josh soon find their way. They discovered that metastatic renal cell carcinoma has many treatment options, including targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or even combining these two modalities! Tune in to find...
2023-02-0446 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindOncoSnacks 1: MucositisThis is OncoSnacks, a new, fortnightly OftIM spinoff!In this new bite-sized series, Michael and Josh try to sink their teeth into more slice-of-life topics, all to help you, our beloved listeners, digest some of the most common problems your patients will serve to you on a platter. This week, a treatment side effect that actually stops people eating (and making lame food-based puns as well): mucositis.This common side effect of anti-cancer systemic therapy can have a major impact on patients quality of life, frequently leading to hospitalisations, significant morbidity and nasogastric tubes galore...
2023-01-3118 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind23. Early Renal Cell CancerThis week on Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, Michael dons his cultural hat and begins with an Ode to the Kidneys, organs that are as much a muse for poets worldwide as the heart (probably). However, you didn't come to this podcast for excellent poetry being delivered with all the panache and misguided enthusiasm of a walrus stepping on a piece of LEGO, and Michael and Josh aim to deliver on this front. Our intrepid pair examine the controversial world of adjuvant treatment of clear cell renal cell cancers (ccRCC), an area of research littered with the ghosts of...
2023-01-2846 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind22. Non Melanoma Skin Cancers - BCC and Merkle Cell CarcinomaAs the southern hemisphere basks in summer's beautiful warmth, Michael and Josh skip the beach to explore skin cancer. While melanoma usually takes centre stage in the oncological world, it is far less common than basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma now has a viable and effective treatment option called cemiplimab. At the other end of the spectrum, Michael investigates the very rare cancer type Merkle Cell Carcinoma and how Avelumab has changed its treatment paradigm. Once again, it's immunotherapy at its best. So remember, while listening to our podcast, don't forget to wear...
2023-01-2150 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind21. Beginning a Career with Andrew JensenNew year, new episode of Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind! After enjoying their holiday break, Josh and Michael dive right into 2023 with an episode especially aimed at trainees just about to start their new professional journey in Medical Oncology. Joined by an old friend, the wise-beyond-his-years Dr Andrew Jensen, they discuss life as a trainee, balancing work and life, and how to navigate the tough first few years of life in training, which can so often feel like being a bottle cast into a storm. Join us for an episode that may be light on hazard ratios and p...
2023-01-1454 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind20. Early-Stage Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)Oncologists love pushing the limits of what is possible for our patients. To celebrate this and the 20th episode of Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind, Michael and Josh explore the heights of pioneering treatment for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). A notoriously resistant cancer with no known targetable lesions that affect younger women on average, The BrighTNess trial, Keynote 522 and Create-X show just how far the treatment landscape has changed in the last five years.Tune into our final episode for the year! We will return in early 2023 with more content, interviews and hilarious banter.
2022-12-161h 10
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind19. Early non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)"I'm not in danger; I AM the danger!" So said Bryan Cranston's Walter White, and so too said early-stage lung cancer when confronted with adjuvant chemotherapy (maybe). In this episode, however, Josh and Michael follow in the footsteps of Hank Schrader, Steve Gomez et al., discussing ways to tackle one of the biggest killers in oncology. While we may not have found a way to control early-stage lung cancer, new developments are on the horizon, such as neoadjuvant chemo-immunotherapy and adjuvant osimertinib. So listen on, with the disclaimer that any similarities between Walter White and Jane Eyre are purely...
2022-12-1055 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind18. Metastatic Colorectal CancerIn this episode, Josh and Mikey travel back millions of years to a time when dinosaurs roamed the Earth, as recent research has demonstrated, unmolested by cancer. Then they come crashing back to the present to discuss this week's topic, metastatic colorectal cancer. Will they discover secrets hidden across the aeons? Was the secret to cancer treatment hidden in the bones of our scaled precursors? No, of course not. But there will be a lot of information on the improving treatment of colorectal cancer, which has not taken millions of years to advance. Oh, and Michael does a passable...
2022-12-031h 00
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind17. Prostate Cancer with Dr Megan CrumbakerMovember is an important event focussing on men's health, including cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer diagnosed in Australia and the second most common in American men. To highlight this and explore the pioneering treatments available, Michael and Josh interviewed the esteemed Dr Megan Crumbaker. Megan is a medical oncologist specialising in genitourinary cancer and works at The Kinghorn Cancer Centre and St. Vincents Health in Sydney, Australia. Dr Crumbaker completed her undergraduate at Rice University, Texas, before completing her medical training in Sydney and a PhD in prostate genomics through The Garvan Research Institute.
2022-11-261h 08
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind16. Metastatic Oesophageal/GOJ/Gastric CancerAfter looking at early upper gastrointestinal cancers last week, Michael and Josh take the logical next step and discuss the management of their metastatic cousins, the most unsavoury collection since Cassius and Brutus teamed up to assassinate their erstwhile friend Julius. And while our weapons against these cancers are limited, that will not stop our intrepid podcasting pair from taking a deep, rambling and irreverent dive into the dirty details. Friends! Oncologists! Countrymen! Lend us your ears!Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):TOGA: https://www.thelancet.com/article...
2022-11-1942 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind15. Early Gastric and Oesophageal CancerAs we CROSS into another episode, Michael and Josh explore the world of early gastric cancer and esophageal cancer. Interestingly both these cancers have a higher incidence in Asia and North Africa. Your podcast hosts soon find early detection of these cancers can be difficult, often leading to treatment challenges not seen by other cancer streams, such as bowel or breast cancer. Unlike previous episodes, FLOT4 looks at perioperative chemotherapy and its benefits over the previous incumbent chemotherapy. Before we give anything more away, make sure to listen to this episode to understand the gold standard of care for...
2022-11-1246 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind14. Advanced Ovarian CancerAfter the highs of their special interview with Dr Belinda Yeo on all things breast cancer, Josh and Michael crash back to their usual programming with a banter and dad-joke-filled journey through the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer. A notoriously insidious disease, ovarian cancer is responsible for not just significant mortality but soul-crushing morbidity as well. However, for some very special people, ovarian cancer does not stop them from reaching their goals, up to and including completing a triathlon! Listen on for the full, inspiring story!Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be...
2022-11-0555 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind13. Breast Cancer with Dr Belinda YeoTo celebrate the end of breast cancer awareness month, Michael and Josh are joined by Dr Belinda Yeo, an experienced oncologist specialising in treating breast cancer. Belinda trained at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, Australia, followed by the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. She now works at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute as a Clinician Scientist with a specific interest in breast cancer and the prestigious Austin Hospital in Melbourne, Australia.We discussed all things breast oncology with Belinda, including career path, research, patient-centred care and, of course, all the breast cancer treatment pearls for...
2022-10-291h 02
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind12. Metastatic Pancreatic CancerIn this episode, Josh and Michael take a step down from the dizzying heights of HER-2 positive breast cancer treatment and crash back to earth to metastatic pancreatic cancer, a topic that remains an unconquered Everest, mocking oncologists like that one kid who always stole Josh's lunch money in school... Don't worry; there will be no airing of childhood trauma here. Just two oncologists discussing treatments and casting a hopeful eye towards the future.Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):ACCORD-11: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1011923
2022-10-2241 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind11. Metastatic HER2- Positive Breast CancerIn part two of their HER2 breast cancer dive, Josh and Michael explore the optimistic world of metastatic breast cancer. Once a desolate space with limited options, HER2 metastatic breast cancer represents the frontier of targeted therapy, like the industrial age or landing on the moon. While neither Josh nor Mikey have been to the moon, these researchers have landed among the stars bringing hope and effective treatments to an aggressive tumour time that a decade ago would have had a very different story. Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):
2022-10-1547 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind10. Early HER2-Positive Breast CancerIn this episode, Josh and Michael begin their second two-part expedition, this time exploring HER2-positive breast cancer, an area of oncology that has been much like your favourite Instagram or TikTok celebrity: at the forefront of the hottest new trends. Neither Josh nor Mikey have a favourite Instagram or TikTok celebrity because they are old and out of touch, but the shifts in HER2-positive breast cancer may be their favourite oncological TikTok celebrity. For the reasons behind such a stretched analogy, listen on!Links to studies discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):
2022-10-081h 01
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind9. Metastatic Urothelial CancerIn this episode, Josh and Michael once again tackle immunotherapy in its application to metastatic urothelial cancer. Some say immunotherapy should be used up front. Others say that it should be used when all previous treatments have failed. And still, others are wondering about that Richard Nixon/Spock impression from last week and how it could be topped. For answers to all those questions and more, you'll have to listen on...Links to papers discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):JAVELIN-100: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2002788KEYNOTE 045: https...
2022-10-0139 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind8. ESMO 2022 HighlightsIn this extraordinary episode, Josh and Michael continue their journey to the earth's centre and the unknown with more European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) highlights. Since last week, Michael has realised that his French needs a bit of work, so they stuck to their guns and avoided google translate. Josh feels they should work on their Spanish to prepare for ESMO in Madrid in 2023. But before these dashing young Doctors get too excited for next year, more pivotal studies must be reported for your enjoyment! This episode focuses on colorectal, and Michael dabbles in some g...
2022-09-251h 14
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind7. ESMO 2022 HighlightsIn this very special episode, Josh and Michael hope to fulfil their fantasy of attending the European Society of Medical Oncology's (ESMO) yearly Congress, where they rub elbows with oncology's biggest movers and shakers; learn about the latest groundbreaking studies; and, in Michael's case, speak French with an accent lifted from a Monty Python sketch. The fact that they were stuck at home for the entire conference won't stand in the way of them from highlighting some of the best, most exciting studies presented in Paris.Find us @InquisitiveOnc for fun oncology facts and links to...
2022-09-1750 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind5. Early Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast CancerIn episode 5, Michael and Josh dive into the complex world of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. While early-stage breast cancer boasts fantastic cure rates many other cancers can only dream of, this evolving space must contend with multiple players, including aromatase inhibitors, tamoxifen and now abemaciclib (CDK 4/6 inhibitor). How best to approach adjuvant endocrine therapy is difficult, but Michael and Josh are on the case!Links to papers discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):SOFT/TEXT: Prudence et al. (2018): https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1803164MonarchE: Johnston et al. (2020...
2022-09-031h 02
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind4. Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung CancerFour episodes already! How time flies when you're having fun. In this episode, Josh and Michael discuss metastatic lung cancer, an area of oncology where a survival benefit of a few months generates cheers, tears and standing ovations. So what happens when studies start to improve patients' outcomes by YEARS? I don't know, but there were almost certainly minds that were thoroughly blown. Join us for this most optimistic of episodes!Links to papers discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):KEYNOTE-189: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1801005FLAURA: https...
2022-08-2749 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind3. MesotheliomaIn this episode, Michael and Josh discuss the scourge that is metastatic mesothelioma. This genuinely awful disease continues to inflict significant mortality and morbidity on patients exposed to asbestos worldwide. One of our more grim episodes thus far, but never fear; we have still crammed in more dad jokes than one can wave a bag of chemotherapy at.Links to papers discussed in this episode (subscription may be required):Vogelzang et al (2003): https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/jco.2003.11.136CHECKMATE-743: https://www.thelancet.com/article/S0140-6736(20)32714-8/fulltextFor more...
2022-08-2031 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind2. Metastatic MelanomaIn this episode, Josh and Michael discuss the incredible story of the treatment of metastatic melanoma, the immunotherapy revolution, and why this relegated a perfectly decent targeted therapy to second place on the podium. Join us for a titanic battle on a par with Macbeth vs Macduff, Rocky Balboa vs Apollo Creed, or Regina George vs that bus...Links to papers discussed (subscription may be required):CHECKMATE-067: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1910836COMBI-D: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1904059For more episodes, resources and blog posts...
2022-08-1349 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive Mind1. Hormone Sensitive Prostate CancerIn their inaugural episode, Michael and Josh discuss one of the most common cancers a budding oncologist will encounter: prostate cancer. But is there more to this cancer than meets the eye? Will they make sense of the whole confusing mess? Is this whole podcasting thing way too much for them to handle? Listen on to find out!Links to papers discussed (subscription may be required):CHAARTED: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1503747ENZAMET: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmoa1903835For more episodes, resources and blog posts...
2022-08-0742 min
Oncology for the Inquisitive MindIntroducing: Oncology for the Inquisitive MindCancer is a fascinating but rapidly evolving discipline - it's a full-time job just keeping up to date. In this podcast, Dr Michael Fernando and Dr Joshua Hurwitz explore the latest trials, research, and practice-changing updates, as well as regular interviews with renowned oncology specialists. Ideal for those starting their training journey, established specialists and anyone interested in medical science, oncological practice, or terrible jokes. Preferably all three.For more episodes, resources and blog posts, visit www.inquisitiveonc.comFind us on Twitter @InquisitiveOnc!If you want us to look at a specific tria...
2022-07-3101 min