Explore every episode of the podcast Breastcancer.org Podcast

Barbara Edwards was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in 2013. In 2017, she started the Rose M. Turknett Cancer Network to honor her youngest sister, who died from breast cancer in 2009 at age 43. Today, she travels around the country with her bedazzled pink boxing gloves, helping people with cancer, especially people living in underserved areas, find the resources and information they need to navigate treatment and survivorship. Listen to the episode to hear Barbara explain: why she had to advocate for herself to get a diagnosis how exercise, yoga, and meditation helped her through treatment her advice to people newly diagnosed with breast cancer

Studies show that rates of certain cancers, including breast cancer, are rising in adolescents and young adults, meaning people between the ages of 15 and 39. While the increase is likely due to a combination of factors, some explanations include obesity, more sedentary lifestyles, chest radiation, alcohol consumption, and genetics. Rebecca Johnson, MD, medical director of the Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Program at Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, and colleagues published a paper suggesting yet another piece of this puzzle: increasing cannabis use among young people.  Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Johnson explain: why she thought cannabis might be linked to cancer the reasons why cannabis could increase the risk of being diagnosed with cancer her advice to young people about cannabis and cancer

After three silver and two bronze medals at the previous four Olympic Games, Elana Meyers Taylor won her first gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics at age 41. She’s joining Breastcancer.org as an ambassador for the Ultimate Teammate campaign, helping people understand how to lower their breast cancer risk and take charge of their breast health. Listen to the episode to hear Elana talk about: how her grandmother’s breast cancer diagnosis affected her and her family steps she takes to keep her risk as low as it can be why having a team and teammates around you is important and how her team helps her

Oligometastatic breast cancer is breast cancer that’s spread to parts of the body away from the breast, like the bones or liver, but there are only a few small cancer lesions at the metastatic site. Dr. Jennifer Plichta, of Duke University, was the corresponding author of a paper looking at treatments for oligometastatic breast cancer, including surgery to remove the primary tumor in the breast and removing the metastatic lesion with surgery or treating it with radiation. The study found that removing the primary breast tumor was associated with better survival. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Plichta explain: how oligometastatic breast cancer is defined why it’s difficult to study oligometastatic breast cancer the results of her study and what they mean for people with oligometastatic disease

At the Living Beyond Breast Cancer 2026 Conference on Metastatic Breast Cancer, five members of the Breastcancer.org metastatic virtual support groups shared what they’d tell someone who’s just been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. They talked to us about the importance of having hope allowing yourself to grieve, seeking out support, and knowing that you’re never alone.

At the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting poster session, we asked four scientists to discuss their research. Listen to the episode to hear: Peter Stanfield, of the University of Wisconsin, explains his research on cancer screening rates in transgender and gender-diverse people. Nico Gotera, of the University of Texas Health Science Center, explains research on GLP-1 medicines and rates of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Anna Tanasijevic, of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains research on how much cancer survivors exercise. Xianghui Zou, of NYU Langone Health, explains research on the timing of immunotherapy infusions for people with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer.

Felicia Marie Knaul, PhD, is a global health researcher whose work focuses on strengthening health systems, advancing gender equity, and improving access to care for those who need it most. She’s also lived through a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, and that experience informs her efforts to transform health systems around the world. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Knaul discuss: her experience with breast cancer why she founded Tómatelo a Pecho and what the organization does why she thinks cancer control can drive the creation of better healthcare systems

Eleonora Teplinsky, MD, is the head of breast and gynecologic medical oncology and Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Center in Paramus, New Jersey, as well as an ASCO breast cancer expert. She explained the most compelling research results on breast cancer presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Teplinsky explain: the importance of the OPTIMA study, as well as her caveats about the results the latest results from the ASCENT-04 study what progression-free survival 2 (PFS2) is and how it helps doctors decide which treatments should be given first what we do and don’t know about GLP-1 medicines and cancer

At the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting, Dr. Jennifer Ligibel, director of the Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, presented early results from the Breast Cancer Weight Loss (BWEL) study. The findings showed that among women with early-stage breast cancer, losing weight led to better physical and mental health, and also helped ease fatigue. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Ligibel explain: the design of the BWEL study why the women in the study had to have hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative or triple-negative breast cancer the next steps for the study

Results from the OPTIMA trial suggest that people with early-stage hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer that seems to have a high risk of recurrence based on clinical features — like a high number of positive lymph nodes — may be able to safely skip chemotherapy if they have a low Prosigna risk of recurrence score. The findings were presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting. Iain MacPherson, professor of breast oncology at the University of Glasgow, was chief investigator of the study. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. MacPherson explain: the design and results of the OPTIMA study why he thinks the trial results are groundbreaking whether or not the results apply to men with this type of breast cancer

At the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, Megan-Claire Chase, known as Warrior Megsie on social media, was one of the speakers at the ASCO Voices session. In her talk, she explained how her views on clinical trials shifted after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Megsie explain: some of the reasons why the Black community distrusts the medical system why she didn’t want to be part of a clinical trial how her feelings changed after she suffered rare, debilitating side effects from treatment why she became an outspoken advocate

Dr. Michael Stubblefield is a cancer rehabilitation expert and Dr. Joseph Dayan is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has pioneered techniques to ease lymphedema with surgery. They’re both very interested in how the GLP-1 medicines, like Ozempic, Wegovey, Zepbound, Mounjaro, Victoza, and Trulicity — just to name a few — could be used to manage lymphedema. Listen to the episode to hear Drs. Stubblefield and Dayan explain: how common lymphedema is among people with breast cancer current lymphedema treatments how the new study using a GLP-1 medicine to treat lymphedema came about what we know right now about GLP-1 medicines and breast cancer treatments

Dr. Dipali Sharma and her team published two papers that found links between bacteria, including F. nucleatum, the bacterium that causes periodontal disease, and the development of breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Sharma explain: her work to figure out how bacteria travel from the gut or mouth to the breast the changes the bacteria cause in breast cells why breast cells with BRCA1 mutations were more likely to have higher levels of bacteria in them how research to inhibit a specific enzyme may one day lead to a new breast cancer treatment

Dr. Brock Hewitt is a surgeon who specializes in treating cancerous and non-cancerous tumors in the liver and other internal organs. One of the techniques he uses is histotripsy. He’s published a number of papers on the procedure and its effectiveness.Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Hewitt explain: how histotripsy works and why it’s only used to treat liver tumors how doctors decide if histotripsy is right for someone with liver metastases the risks and benefits of histotripsy insurance coverage for histotripsy Podcast image credit:

In Caitlin Shetterly’s latest novel, the main character has been diagnosed with breast cancer in her left breast. Six months after sending in her draft, Shetterly was diagnosed with breast cancer in her left breast. Breast cancer had broken the fourth wall between Shetterly, her characters, and her readers. Listen to the episode to hear Caitlin explain: how she came up with the idea of her character Alice being diagnosed with breast cancer why she thought Alice would be the only person who could understand what she was going through how breast cancer changed her as a person and as a writer

For some people a breast cancer diagnosis can bring on a rush of feelings: grief, anxiety, fear, hope, resentment, and anger. This podcast is the audio from a special Virtual Community Meetup featuring guest moderator Kelly Grosklags. Listen to the episode to hear Kelly explain: why some people might feel more anxious after treatment is completed why feelings about a cancer diagnosis can be a form of grief how to make space for both/and instead of either/or how to move forward when you have ongoing oncology appointments

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the nerves that run to your hands, feet, arms, and legs. Neuropathy can cause burning pain, numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the areas that are affected. Chemotherapy, especially medicines called taxanes – Taxol, Taxotere, and Abraxane – are common causes of neuropathy in people receiving breast cancer treatment. While there are treatments that may help ease the symptoms of neuropathy, there is nothing available that can repair the damaged nerves. So studies are looking at ways to prevent neuropathy in the first place. Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, head of breast and gynecological medical oncology at Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care in Paramus, New Jersey, is the principal investigator at her institution of the ICE COMPRESS study, which is looking at cooling mitts and socks and compression to prevent neuropathy during chemotherapy. The study is being done at more than 20 sites across the United States. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Teplinsky explain: risk factors for neuropathy the rationale for the ICE COMPRESS study her advice to people who want to try icing and compression on their own during chemotherapy

Secreted frizzled-related protein 2 is a protein that helps cancers grow by supporting the formation of new blood vessels, stopping cancer cells from dying, and weakening immune cells that should recognize and attack cancer cells. Dr. Nancy Klauber-DeMore is developing an antibody that blocks this protein. Early research suggests the antibody may halt the growth of triple-negative breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Klauber-DeMore explain: what secreted frizzled-related protein 2 does and why she thought blocking it might help treat breast cancer why she’s focusing her work on triple-negative breast cancer the next steps for the antibody she and her team have developed

Twenty years ago, seven people diagnosed with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer received a cancer vaccine as part of a clinical trial. Today, they’re all still alive. This prompted Zachary Hartman to study the immune systems of the people in the trial to see what was happening. He found that the women had immune cells that continue to recognize the cancer and keep it under control. Now his goal is to make that vaccine even more effective and make it work on other types of breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Hartman explain: how the original study was done how he’s working to make the vaccine even more effective how the vaccine might be modified to work on hormone receptor-positive and triple-negative breast cancer

This bonus episode is the audio from a Breastcancer.org webinar. There are steps you can take to help prevent treatment-related hair loss, promote hair regrowth, and find confidence again. In this Breastcancer.org webinar, learn how different treatment types affect hair, preventing or reducing hair loss, what to expect for regrowth, tips for coping, and advice for finding and wearing a wig that's right for you. Listen to the webinar to get expert advice from the panelists, including:  Marisa C. Weiss, MD Chief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org  Mario E. Lacouture, MDDirector, Oncodermatology Program, Research Director, Dermatology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Alicia GiglioChief Experience Officer, Wigs.com Breast cancer advocate, Tirzah Cooper has bravely shared her experience of hair loss. Watch her story and hear about the impact it had on her self-esteem and daily life.

The changes to federal- and state-run health insurance programs can be confusing, especially since some of the changes haven’t been implemented yet and others are being challenged in court. How will these changes affect people with metastatic breast cancer?  This podcast is the audio from a special Virtual Support Group featuring guest moderator Joanna Doran. Listen to the episode to hear Joanna explain: what short-term health insurance plans are and what they may not cover what Medigap plans are and how they’re purchased Medicaid work requirements and required documentation differences between Medicare parts A, B, C, and D

This bonus episode is the audio of Breastcancer.org webinar. Exercise could change your life — at any age. Physical activity can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, and it may lower the risk of the cancer coming back if you've been diagnosed. Exercise also has many benefits for people living with metastatic breast cancer. While evidence shows there are many ways exercise can boost your mental and physical health, we know it isn't always easy to do. This webinar will help inform and motivate you to get moving. Patients, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare providers can watch this webinar to: Understand how much exercise you really need to get the benefits of working out Learn what types of exercise are safe and recommended Hear the latest guidelines on lymphedema and exercise Discover simple ways to begin or return to physical activity Hear answers to common exercise concerns Get tips on equipment, sneakers, and low cost exercise resources You can also try a free guided workout led by a certified cancer trainer at the end of the webinar. Learn more about exercise and breast cancer, and try our series of workout videos. Featured Speakers: Sami Mansfield Founder, Cancer Wellness for Life Thank you to AstraZeneca for making this program possible.

Bone and joint pain are some of the most common side effects of aromatase inhibitors, medicines for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The official name for this is aromatase inhibitor associated — or sometimes induced — musculoskeletal syndrome, also called AIMSS. Many people report pain in the knees, ankles, and hips while taking an aromatase inhibitor, but the hands and the wrists also might be affected. Hand expert Dr. David Bozentka discusses how AIMSS can affect the wrists and hands, including symptoms such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and tendonitis. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Bozentka explain: the theories why aromatase inhibitors cause joint and bone pain, or AIMSS how to decrease the risk of AIMSS how carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and tendonitis are treated

This bonus episode is the audio from a Breastcancer.org webinar. Follow-up care after breast cancer is essential. Getting good follow-up care can make a big difference in your long-term health and quality of life. In this Breastcancer.org webinar, you’ll find out how often you should see your oncologist after your treatment ends and get other practical advice from our expert panelists and patient advocates. Watch the webinar to get expert advice from the panelists, including:  Marisa C. Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer and Founder, Breastcancer.org Hoda Badr, PhDProfessor, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine Fumiko Chino, MDRadiation Oncologist, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Evelyn Robles-Rodríguez, DNP, APN, AOCNDirector of Outreach, Prevention, and Survivorship, MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper Erin Roesch, MDBreast Medical Oncologist, Cleveland Clinic Megan-Claire ChaseBreast Cancer Program Director, SHARE Cancer SupportPatient Advocate Amanda HelmsPatient Advocate Kate RosenblumPatient Advocate Loriana Hernandez-AldamaTwo-Time Cancer Survivor, Award-winning Journalist, Author

The CHALLENGE trial found that a three-year, structured exercise program after chemotherapy for stage III colon cancer reduced the risk of the cancer coming back (recurrence risk) and also led to people living longer overall. Dr. Kerry Courneya, the lead researcher, thinks the results can be applied to people with other types of cancer, including breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Courneya explain: why the study asked people to exercise for three years why he thinks the results may spur insurance companies to cover exercise-related costs, like equipment and gym memberships the reasons why the results also could apply to people diagnosed with breast cancer

This podcast is the audio from a Breastcancer.org ⁠webinar⁠. Many people struggle with intimacy during and after breast cancer treatment, but not everyone knows what to expect or how to manage these issues. Watch this webinar to learn about the physical and emotional challenges, and suggestions to improve sexual health. The featured speakers are Marisa Weiss, MD, Jennifer Barsky Reese, PhD, FSBM, and Kristin Emilia Rojas, MD, FACS. The topics they discuss include: Vaginal dryness and irritation Intimacy while in treatment Decreased desire Pain during sex Decreased breast sensation Fatigue Emotional challenges and self-confidence The impact on relationships with partners In the webinar you will also hear about the importance of discussing sexual health with healthcare providers, different methods and treatments to improve sexual health after breast cancer, the role of counseling and communication in dealing with these issues, and how exercise and lifestyle changes can help. Learn more about sexual health and breast cancer.

This podcast is the audio from a Breastcancer.org webinar. In this candid conversation, Marisa Weiss, MD, Michele Ley, MD, FACS, Pamela Munster, MD, and Rachel Swart, MD, PhD share what they each experienced when they went from the role of healthcare provider to patient. Despite their medical training, many years of helping patients, and deep knowledge about breast cancer, they too felt their life come to a screeching halt when they were diagnosed. They spoke honestly about how they managed treatment decisions, returning to work, how the experience changed their interactions with their own patients, what everyone can learn about advocating for yourself, and much more. Their hope is that by sharing their stories, they can help others coping with the same challenges, and empower everyone affected by breast cancer. Featured speakers: Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org Michele Ley, MD, FACSBoard-Certified Breast Surgical Oncologist and Founder, Tucson Breast Health Specialists Pamela Munster, MDDirector, Early Phase Clinical Trials Unit, Co-leader of the Center for BRCA Research, and Co-Leader, Molecular Oncology Program, University of California San Francisco Rachel Swart, MD, PhDMedical Oncology and Hematology, Arizona Oncology

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Dr. Ian Tattersall, an oncodermatologist, was part of a panel focusing on body image, hair loss, and skin health after breast cancer treatment. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Tattersall explain: some of the most common skin issues who is a highest risk for skin issues his advice for people who are experiencing skin issues

The 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium featured four days filled with new research findings, poster presentations, and educational sessions. Marisa Weiss, MD, founder and chief medical officer of Breastcancer.org, offers her take on the top results. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Weiss explain: how giredestrant, a new oral SERD for early-stage, hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, may change practice a new use for Tukysa (chemical name: tucatinib) in metastatic HER2-positive disease the lifestyle factors that can affect breast cancer risk and steps people can take to keep their risk as low as possible

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Justin Johnson, PhD, presented a poster detailing the final results from three groups of people in a phase I trial on a vaccine to prevent triple-negative breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Johnson explain: why the vaccine targets the alpha-lactalbumin protein the safety and dose results of the study what’s next for the research

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Ann Partridge, MD, MPH, presented research on the Young, Empowered & Strong (YES) mHealth tool designed to better meet the emotional and physical health needs of young people who’ve received breast cancer treatment. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Partridge explain: how people access the tool and how it works the specific symptoms the tool helped improve what’s next for the tool

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Dr. Jun Mao, an integrative medicine specialist and licensed acupuncturist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, presented research showing that both real and sham acupuncture can help improve cognitive function in women treated for breast cancer. Sham acupuncture mimics real acupuncture, but no needles pierce the skin. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Mao explain: the complexities of chemo brain and why the causes are more than chemotherapy the results of the study his advice for people who would like to try acupuncture

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Whitney O’Connor, a two-time breast cancer survivor, licensed professional counselor, and founder of the Boobie Queen Company, presented a poster on the mental health tools she developed to help young women address any mental health and body image challenges they may have. Listen to the episode to hear Whitney explain: the phases of cancer survivorship framework she developed how the retreats her company sponsored used the framework to help young women heal emotionally how she plans to integrate healthcare providers into the framework

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, Megan-Claire Chase, known online as Warrior Megsie, a fierce and funny breast cancer advocate, presented a poster on real-world patient and caregiver experiences with breast cancer risk of recurrence in the United States. Listen to the episode to hear Megan-Claire explain: why she and her colleagues wanted to do the survey the gaps in survivorship care the survey uncovered the support services patients and caregivers need

At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS), Dr. Tara Sanft, associate professor of medicine at the Yale School of Medicine and director of the Yale Survivorship Clinic, moderated a session called “Balancing Act: Hormone Replacement Therapy in Breast Cancer Care.” Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Sanft explain: the difference between systemic and local HRT why HRT decisions need to be nuanced and individualized for anyone with a history of breast cancer – there is no one-size-fits-all her advice to people with a history of breast cancer who are considering HRT

After surgery, many people with stage I to stage III hormone receptor-positive breast cancer take tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor for five to 10 years. This has been the standard of care for the last 25 years. At the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, UCLA scientist Dr. Aditya Bardia presented results on giredestrant, a new oral selective estrogen degrader/downregulator (SERD) that offered better disease-free survival — how long people live without the cancer returning – than tamoxifen or an aromatase inhibitor. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Bardia explain: how giredestrant is different from the two other available SERDs if giredestrant could be combined with a CDK4/6 inhibitor giredestrant side effects what the results mean for people diagnosed with early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer

This bonus episode is the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠⁠⁠webinar. Managing breast cancer treatment can be a long, complex process with unexpected obstacles. Some people experience a cosmetic or medical issue with their breast reconstruction that occurs soon after surgery or years later. If you’re unhappy with the cosmetic results of reconstruction after a mastectomy or lumpectomy — or you’re feeling pain, tightness, or changes in implant position — a corrective procedure may be beneficial for you.  In this webinar, three highly specialized breast surgeons discuss what to do when issues develop after getting implants or having a flap reconstruction – which is using your own tissue to rebuild a breast. They explain possible complications, how to find the right doctor for revision surgery, techniques to fix reconstruction issues, and paying for a corrective procedure.  Listen to the webinar to learn about options for managing discomfort, changes in shape, size, positioning of the breast, asymmetry, implant rupture, capsular contracture, fat necrosis, and more. And remember, If you notice symptoms that concern you, it’s best to see your doctor as soon as possible and ask if what you’re experiencing is normal for the type of reconstruction you had and other health factors that are specific to you.  Learn more about corrective breast reconstruction surgery. Featured Speakers: Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org Anne Peled, MDBoard-certified Plastic Surgeon Co-director, Breast Care Center of ExcellenceSutter Health  Dhivya Srinivasa, MD, FACSDouble Board-certified General and Plastic SurgeonFounder, The Institute for Advanced Breast Reconstruction Sarosh Zafar, MDDouble Board-certified General and Plastic SurgeonCenter for Restorative Breast Surgery

Male breast cancer makes up about 1% of all breast cancer cases. The numbers are small, but it does happen. Jake Messier is living with metastatic breast cancer after first being diagnosed with stage II disease in 2023. Jake has very active Tik Tok and Instagram accounts (theguywithstage4breastcancer) detailing his experience with breast cancer. Listen to the episode to hear Jake explain: how he felt when he was diagnosed why and how he got a second opinion and moved his care to Dana Farber why he decided to be vocal about being a man with breast cancer why he started the Male Breast Cancer Research Foundation and what he hopes to accomplish with it

This bonus episode is the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠⁠webinar. Hair loss. Fatigue. Forgetfulness. Vomiting. Weight changes. Neuropathy. The possible side effects of chemotherapy for breast cancer can be concerning — especially because there’s no way to predict exactly how each person will react to treatment. It can feel overwhelming to manage it all, but there are steps you can take to help yourself. Watch this webinar to learn from experts about what to expect and how to prepare for short and long-term side effects. You’ll hear how to manage changes to your body and mind before, during, and after treatment. Get actionable advice on ways to reduce some side effects, and advocate for your care. Learn more about breast cancer chemotherapy side effects. Featured Speakers: Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org Aditya Bardia, MD, MPH, FASCODirector, Translational Research Integration at UCLA HealthProfessor, Department of Medicine at UCLA Health Maryam Lustberg, MD, MPHDirector, Breast Center at Smilow Cancer HospitalChief, Breast Medical Oncology at Yale Cancer CenterAssociate Professor of Medicine, Yale LaShae Rolle, MPH, CPHPredoctoral Fellow, University of MiamiBreast Cancer Survivor Cara SapidaReporter, WPXI-TVBreast Cancer Survivor Ashley Patrick, PharmDRegistered Manager Onsite Pharmacy, Walgreens

Dr. Andrei Goga and his colleagues found that triple-negative breast cancer cells build molecular tunnels called gap junctions into nearby fat cells and use the fat cells’ energy for fuel. When the scientists blocked the gap junctions, the tumors stopped growing. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Goga explain: how the study came about how the cancer cells connect to the fat cells how the process could work in metastatic TNBC what the results could mean for treating triple negative disease.

This bonus episode is the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠webinar. For many people, life after breast cancer isn't as easy as just moving on. Physical side effects may linger, and the emotional healing is ongoing. Fear of recurrence can affect our mental health and relationships even when we are doing our best to live in the moment. Listen to this webinar for an honest conversation between breast cancer survivors about realistically managing anxiety and stress, staying active, and finding a balanced healthy lifestyle. You’ll also hear from medical experts about survivorship care plans, and their perspective on making healthy choices without putting too much pressure on yourself to be perfect.  Special thanks to ArmorUp for Life for partnering with Breastcancer.org on the webinar. Read more about getting the best follow up care for you. Featured Speakers: Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org Kevin Fox, MDEmeritus Professor of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania Loriana Hernández-AldamaFounder, ArmorUp for LIFE Charlene AbramsBreast Cancer Survivor and Advocate Carolyn TeschlerBreast Cancer Survivor and Advocate Epiphany Wallner-HaasBreast Cancer Survivor and Advocate

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, nearly everyone worries that the cancer will come back. But for some people, this fear is overwhelming and interferes with their ability to function and live their lives.  Clinical health psychologist Dr. Shelly Johns is studying the effect fear of breast cancer recurrence has on people’s lives and how they cope with that fear.  Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Johns discuss: the number of people have a fear of recurrence that warrants treatment how this fear affects people the coping strategies her study evaluated coping mechanisms anyone can use

This bonus episode is the audio of a Breastcancer.org webinar. When life is interrupted by breast cancer at a young age, there are distinct challenges and quality-of-life issues to manage.  It’s important to understand all the possible ways a diagnosis can impact the future, including fertility decisions, pregnancy care, career disruptions, parenting young kids, long-term survivorship concerns, sexuality, and more. This webinar is for patients, caregivers, advocates, and healthcare providers who want to understand and support the unique experiences of people diagnosed before age 45. Hear powerful personal stories, get expert insights, and learn about resources that can help you.  Featured Speakers: Jeanelle AdamsBreast Cancer Advocate, @elleviews Allie BrumelChief Operating Officer, The Breasties Brooks FuentesCommunity Support, Young Survival Coalition Hayley GullenAuthor, Illustrator, and Breast Cancer Survivor Melissa JenkinsCommunity Director, Breastcancer.org Athena JonesAward-winning Journalist and Breast Cancer Advocate Jasmine McDonald, PhDAssociate Professor, Columbia University Mackenzie McGrathVP, Programs, First Descents Megan Tesch, MD, MPHBreast Oncologist, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Dani TropsBreast Cancer Advocate, @dani_trops Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org

According to a KFF poll, about one in eight, or 12%, of adults in the United States have used a GLP-1 medicine like Ozempic, Trulicity, Victoza, Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Zepbound. These drugs were originally developed to treat diabetes, but quickly started being prescribed for weight loss and other uses. While they seem like wonder drugs, GLP-1 medicines do cause side effects and have risks. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are common side effects. The drugs also can cause dizziness, headaches, and elevated heartbeat.  Dr. Neil Iyengar is a breast medical oncologist who studies how diet and exercise can improve quality of life for people with breast cancer. He’s also prescribed GLP-1 medicines for the people he cares for. Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Iyengar explain: how GLP-1 medicines work the risks these drugs may pose for people receiving chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or a CDK4/6 inhibitor why he works closely with a weight loss specialist or endocrinologist when prescribing these medicines why the medicines work best when a person also makes lifestyle changes

This is a bonus episode of the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠webinar⁠⁠⁠⁠. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an invasive subtype of breast cancer that can be harder to treat and is more likely to come back. But new research into understanding TNBC is helping some patients find more precise treatment options.  Learn about innovations in immunotherapy, genetic testing, and targeted therapies, why TNBC is different compared to other types of breast cancer, and what gives doctors hope about the future of care for people with TNBC. You’ll also hear from two inspiring breast cancer advocates who created TNBC resources for patients after their own diagnosis. Read more about triple-negative breast cancer. Featured Speakers: Maimah KarmoBreast Cancer Advocate and Founder, Tigerlily Roberto Leon-Ferre, MDCo-Leader of the Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Working Group and Associate Professor at Mayo Clinic Evelyn Taiwo, MDHematology and Oncology at New York Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital and Associate Professor at Cornell University Kelly ThomasBreast Cancer Advocate and Founder, TNBC Thrivers Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org

Many people feel supported by Breast Cancer Awareness Month activities and pink merchandise. Others feel the month focuses on people who’ve been cured and leaves out people with metastatic disease. Some men with breast cancer feel the overwhelming pinkness of the month silences their experience. And others feel the pink labels on products linked to higher breast cancer risk, such as alcohol and cosmetics with ingredients like triclosan, are hypocritical.  This podcast is the audio from a special Virtual Community Meetup featuring guest moderator Kelly Grosklags. Listen to the episode to hear: what people like and dislike about Breast Cancer Awareness Month why some people feel pressure to be the face of breast cancer for the month why some people don’t like the words “survivor” or “warrior” ways to support people with breast cancer during October

This is a bonus episode of the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠⁠⁠webinar⁠⁠⁠. If you’ve struggled with anxiety, fear, depression, anger, loneliness, or felt overwhelmed by the emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis, this webinar is for you.  You’ll learn about a variety of approaches to treat and manage mental health issues from counseling to complementary therapies, lifestyle changes, medication, meditation, and much more. Anyone diagnosed with breast cancer can benefit from mental health support. Watch the video to hear what the experts recommend. Discussion topics include: How to get started with finding mental health support Coping with scanxiety Navigating relationships with loved ones who don’t understand what you’re going through Finding the right therapist for you Research into the benefits of yoga, meditation, and acupuncture  How to focus on living in the present The grief that can accompany any breast cancer diagnosis The webinar also features a calming 10-minute meditation. Learn more about taking care of your mental health after a breast cancer diagnosis. Featured Speakers: Bethany AdairMindset Coach, Author, and Stage IV Cancer Thriver Ting Bao, MD, MSCo-Director of the Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Susan Glaser, LCSWSenior Clinical Social Worker, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Rhonda Schaller, MPS, MBSRAssistant Vice President; Co-Lead of The Mindfulness Collaboratory, Pratt Institute Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org

Triple-negative breast cancer is negative for both estrogen and progesterone receptors. So, it’s hormone receptor-negative. People diagnosed with this type of breast cancer aren’t offered hormonal therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence (the cancer coming back) because it’s thought that they wouldn’t be effective.  Dr. Lisa Newman and colleagues published research that found that among people diagnosed with early-stage triple-negative breast cancer, nearly 33% of the recurrences or second primary breast cancers were hormone receptor-positive. This means the hormone receptor status had changed when the cancer came back or when there was a new cancer. The results raise this question: Should people with triple-negative disease be offered hormonal therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence? Listen to the episode to hear Dr. Newman explain: how she decided to investigate this issue why the results surprised her what the results mean for someone who’s been diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer with a high risk of recurrence

This is a bonus episode of the audio of a Breastcancer.org ⁠⁠webinar⁠⁠. Making decisions about breast reconstruction is personal. Hours of research can go into your choice about restoring the shape and size of one or both breasts. It’s also important to think carefully about how you want to look and feel in your body.  Implants, flap reconstruction, fat grafting, going flat, immediate or delayed, breast surgeons, plastic surgeons, risks, benefits, costs — there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re planning for reconstruction, having a corrective procedure, or recovering from surgery, watch this webinar to learn from experienced plastic surgeons.  Marisa Weiss, MD, interviewed Clara Lee, MD, MPP, FACS and Sarosh Zafar, MD to ask them questions from our community about reconstruction decisions after lumpectomy and mastectomy, expectations for the procedures and recovery time, side effects, symmetry, nipple reconstruction, and much more.  Read more about breast reconstruction. Featured Speakers: Clara Lee, MD, MPP, FACSPlastic Surgeon and Professor of Surgery, University of North Carolina Marisa Weiss, MDChief Medical Officer, Breastcancer.org Sarosh Zafar, MDPlastic Surgeon, Center for Restorative Breast Surgery

A medical assistant at Elizabeth Wende Breast Care in Upstate New York, Chelsea Vangrol had seen young women diagnosed with breast cancer. But she never expected to be one of them. She shares her experience of being diagnosed with DCIS at age 25 so other people in a similar situation will know they’re not alone.Listen to the episode to hear Chelsea discuss: strategies she used to cope with stress and fear the factors she considered when making treatment decisions what she’d like other people who are diagnosed with breast cancer in their 20s to know