98. Dr. Dawn Mussallem: Why 75% of Cancers Are Actually Preventable + The Evidence-Based Protocol

Sep 25, 2025

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What happens when a medical student gets diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and given three months to live? In this episode of Extend, Dr. Dawn Mussallem joins me to share her incredible journey from near-death to becoming a leading integrative oncologist at Mayo Clinic, proving that lifestyle interventions can dramatically improve cancer outcomes.

We discuss how 42% of cancers are preventable through lifestyle changes, why ultra-processed foods increase cancer risk by 16%, and the shocking truth about soy and breast cancer. We also share her evidence-based protocol combining conventional treatments with integrative modalities.

Dr. Dawn Mussallem is a double board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine at Mayo Clinic, where she designed the integrative breast oncology program. A cancer survivor who received a heart transplant in 2021, she combines personal experience with rigorous science to help patients optimize their health during and after cancer treatment.

We Also Discuss:

Why 75% of Cancers Are Caused by Lifestyle Factors (Not Genetics)
How Ultra-Processed Foods Increase Cancer Death Risk by 30%
The Shocking Truth About Soy and Breast Cancer (It's Actually Protective)
Why Half Your Plate Should Be Vegetables or Fruits at Every Meal
The 30 Diverse Plant Foods Per Week Rule for Optimal Gut Health
Low-Dose Naltrexone's Immune-Boosting Effects for Cancer Patients
Why Exercise During Chemotherapy Actually Improves Outcomes
How Fermented Foods Support Cancer Prevention and Treatment
The Mayo Clinic Protocol for Maintaining Vitality During Treatment
Why Skipping Breakfast Increases All-Cause Mortality Risk

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Website: https://www.drshah.com/

Clinic: https://www.next-health.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nexthealth/

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Learn more about Dr. Dawn Mussallem:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdawnmussallem/?hl=en

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dawn-mussallem-do-dipablm-2b360b57