The Peter Attia Drive #121 - Azra Raza, M.D.: Why we're losing the war on cancer
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Jul 27, 2020 Azra Raza, a leading physician and author, passionately advocates for a paradigm shift in cancer research. She critiques outdated models that hinder progress in survival rates and discusses her book, 'The First Cell.' Highlighting the staggering costs of new cancer drugs, she questions the efficacy of current treatments while pushing for a focus on early detection and prevention. Azra shares her personal journey and the emotional toll of her husband's battle with cancer, ultimately offering an optimistic vision for the future of oncology.
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Andrew's Diagnosis
- Azra Raza, driven by the helplessness of oncology, wrote "The First Cell" after a friend's son, Andrew, was diagnosed with GBM.
- Andrew's faith in her cutting-edge work, juxtaposed with the inability to help him, fueled her writing.
Stagnant Cancer Mortality
- Cancer mortality remains unchanged since 1930, despite purported advances.
- The recent decline mirrors decreased smoking rates, not improved treatment for advanced cancers.
Ancient Cancer Treatment
- The first recorded cancer surgery was in 500 BC when a Greek slave removed the Persian queen Atossa's breast.
- This highlights how primary cancer treatments (slash, poison, burn) have remained fundamentally unchanged for centuries.
