MD Anderson Cancer Center

Cardiometabolic Health for Men with Advanced Prostate Cancer: Lessons Learned and Future Directions

Cardiometabolic Health for Men with Advanced Prostate Cancer: Lessons Learned and Future Directions

Posted by | Sep 2024

Andrew W. Hahn, MD, addresses cardiometabolic health in men with advanced prostate cancer, focusing on the impacts of hormone therapy and strategies for managing cardiovascular risks.

In this 10-minute talk, Dr. Hahn highlights the common overlap of prostate cancer and cardiometabolic risk factors and underscores the necessity of evaluating cardiovascular risk in prostate cancer patients. He reviews data indicating that androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) can indirectly increase cardiovascular risks by altering body composition and intensifying metabolic syndrome. Adding androgen receptors nearly doubles cardiovascular event risk. Despite FDA advisories, guidelines, and the availability of cardiovascular risk assessments, many patients undergoing ADT lack appropriate cardiovascular monitoring.

Dr. Hahn highlights future directions in identifying men at heightened risk for cardiovascular events using imaging and genomic biomarkers. Promising approaches include myocardial perfusion PET scans and exploring genomic markers that correlate with cardiovascular toxicity in hormone therapy. Managing cardiometabolic health in advanced prostate cancer requires careful risk assessment and personalized approaches. Biomarkers are needed to effectively predict cardiovascular complications from hormone therapy.

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Integrating Care in Advanced Prostate Cancer

Integrating Care in Advanced Prostate Cancer

Posted by | Sep 2024

John W. Davis, MD, addresses the economic burden and stress experienced by patients due to high treatment costs in advanced prostate cancer (APC) management. He stresses that this aspect of APC care often goes under-discussed.

In this 11-minute presentation, Dr. Davis highlights direct costs such as medications, hospital stays, and physician fees, as well as indirect costs including lost income and travel expenses. He emphasizes that these financial strains can lead to treatment non-adherence, delayed care, and worsened clinical outcomes.

John W. Davis, MD, highlights the different ways integrated care models can be adopted across healthcare systems to enhance the management of advanced prostate cancer. By fostering a collaborative approach and eliminating barriers, Dr. Davis believes that the future of advanced prostate cancer care will be strengthened.

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Treatment of Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer in the Era of PSMA PET Imaging

Treatment of Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer in the Era of PSMA PET Imaging

Posted by | Aug 2024

Andrew W. Hahn, MD, explores the treatment of oligometastatic prostate cancer in the context of advancements in PSMA PET imaging. Dr. Hahn examines the integration of systemic therapies with local treatments, discussing the benefits and challenges of combining androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with newer agents like androgen receptor inhibitors and chemotherapy. The presentation also delves into the evolving role of PSMA-targeted radioligand therapy, outlining promising results from early-phase studies and ongoing research on this treatment modality.
A significant portion of the presentation is dedicated to the practical considerations and challenges associated with implementing PSMA PET imaging and MDT in clinical practice. Dr. Hahn addresses issues related to accessibility, cost, and the need for multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure the best patient outcomes.

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Improving Patient Decision-Making in Urinary Diversion: Satisfaction Over Regret

Improving Patient Decision-Making in Urinary Diversion: Satisfaction Over Regret

Posted by | Aug 2024

O. Lenaine Westney, MD examines the psychological and emotional impacts of urinary diversion, emphasizing how these procedures profoundly affect patients’ lives. She discusses the main types of urinary diversions—ileal conduit, continent cutaneous diversion, and orthotopic neobladder—detailing their indications, advantages, and potential complications.

Dr. Westney advocates for a collaborative approach in which urologists and patients engage in open dialogues about the risks and benefits of each urinary diversion method. She emphasizes the importance of integrating patients’ values, goals, and quality of life considerations into the treatment planning process.

Dr. Westney also addresses common sources of decisional regret among patients, such as unmet expectations and unanticipated complications. Utilizing case studies and real-world examples, Dr. Westney demonstrates how effective communication and patient-centered care can lead to higher satisfaction rates and reduced instances of regret.

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Diversity in Academic Urology: Where We Stand and Next Steps

Diversity in Academic Urology: Where We Stand and Next Steps

Posted by | Aug 2024

O. Lenaine Westney, MD, analyzes demographic data within academic urology, noting the underrepresentation of certain groups, particularly women and minorities, in faculty and leadership positions. She emphasizes the importance of diversity for fostering innovation, improving patient care, and enriching the educational environment.

Dr. Westney highlights successful initiatives and programs that have been implemented to promote diversity within the field. She discusses the impact of targeted recruitment efforts, diversity training, and mentorship programs designed to support underrepresented groups.
The presentation also addresses the role of institutional policies and leadership commitment in driving change. Dr. Westney advocates for the establishment of clear diversity goals, accountability measures, and dedicated resources to support diversity and inclusion efforts. She underscores the importance of creating a supportive and inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and experiences.

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