Multi-Disciplinary Management of Lung Cancer - 03/22/23 - Lung Cancer Living Room

In this special edition episode of The Lung Cancer Living Room titled "Multi-Disciplinary Management of Lung Cancer," host Danielle Hicks, the Chief Patient Officer for GO2 for Lung Cancer, brings together an esteemed panel of experts filmed live in Fort Lauderdale. The panel, led by Dr. Luis Raez of the Memorial Healthcare System, also features thoracic surgeon, Dr. Mark Block, thoracic oncologist Dr. Gelenis Domingo, and patient navigator Mihaela Romanita, RN, MSN also all at Memorial, as well as Dr. Ana Botero, a radiation oncologist at Baptist Health South Florida. Throughout the episode, these experts discuss a wide range of topics within their respective disciplines, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork to ensure the best possible patient care. Key points include empowering patients to ask for molecular testing, the necessity of both liquid and tissue-based molecular testing, and reassuring patients not to worry about insurance coverage for sequencing tests, as companies often cover costs when insurance falls short. The panel also delves into a variety of crucial topics that are shaping the landscape of lung cancer treatment. They highlight the need for patients to insist on next-generation sequencing (NGS) over limited sequencing, as NGS provides invaluable information on new biomarker targets, many of which are in clinical trials. The experts emphasize the importance of reflex testing, similar to breast cancer protocols, to expedite targeted treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.

The panel discusses the recent paradigm shift in which patients are increasingly receiving immunotherapy before surgery, as well as the role of radiation in oligoprogression and oligometastatic cancer. They explore the delicate balance of timing and sequencing powerful treatments to maximize patient benefits while minimizing side effects. The indispensable role of patient navigators in guiding patients through this complex journey is also acknowledged.

An audience question prompts a discussion on diet and weight, particularly surrounding the consumption of sugar. Above all, the panel radiates hope and optimism for lung cancer patients, as they reflect on the rapid advancements and groundbreaking discoveries made in recent years. This insightful conversation offers not only essential information but also a sense of reassurance and confidence in the future of lung cancer treatment and care.

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Is molecular testing appropriate for small cell lung cancer?