In 'The First Cell,' Azra Raza provides a comprehensive and deeply personal examination of cancer. The book explores the medical, scientific, cultural, and personal aspects of cancer, challenging the current paradigms in cancer treatment. Raza argues for a focus on early detection rather than late-stage treatments, drawing from her decades of clinical practice and her own experiences, including her husband's battle with leukemia. The book intertwines scientific expertise with personal narratives, emphasizing the need for compassion and a patient-centric approach in healthcare. It also delves into the economic and ethical aspects of cancer care, highlighting the disparities in access to treatments and advocating for a radical transformation in how we understand and confront cancer.
In today's episode, you'll get to explore the world of early cancer detection with Dr. Azra Raza, a pioneering oncologist and professor of medicine. We discuss the anxiety-inducing issues surrounding current cancer screening methods like mammograms and colonoscopies and examine advanced alternatives such as GRAIL and Cologuard. Dr. Raza also shares her groundbreaking work in detecting "The First Cell" and explores the potential of biomarkers and wearable devices for early detection (check out her fascinating book on this topic for more invaluable information!).
In a deeply personal segment, Dr. Raza opens up about her late husband's battle with leukemia and how it shaped her understanding of cancer. We’ll also discuss the flaws in the current cancer research model, the financial struggles for innovative scientists, and the urgent need for better funding to accelerate progress.
Dr. Azra Raza is the Chan Soon-Shiong Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director of The Edward P. Evans Foundation MDS Center at Columbia University in New York. A practicing oncologist seeing 30–40 cancer patients weekly, she directs a basic cancer research lab with hundreds of original publications in high-profile journals. Her life is dedicated to the prevention of all chronic diseases, including cancer, by early detection. She worked with President Clinton, designing breakthrough developments in science and technology, and with President Joe Biden for the Cancer Moonshot initiative. Her latest book is a national bestseller and has been translated into nine languages.
Dr. Raza is now involved in First Cell Therapeutics, developing a specific antibody to target and remove the tumor macrophage hybrid cells that act as The First Cell giving rise to cancer.
Full show notes: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/firstcell
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