Cancer Questions

Brian Wolpin, MD, MPH, explains how diabetes raises the risk of certain cancers, including colon, liver, pancreatic, breast, and endometrial cancers. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, weight management, and routine cancer screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, can help reduce risk and ensure early detection. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://w...

Felipa Lynce, MD, discusses factors linked to inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) and signs to watch for. IBC often appears without a lump, with symptoms like skin discoloration, changes in breast texture, or persistent pain. Want to learn more about breast cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/breast-cancer 

Lachelle Weeks, MD, PhD, explains how 4-5% of blood cancers are caused by heritable conditions, meaning an abnormal gene is passed down within a family. Most blood cancers, however, are sporadic and occur by chance. For individuals with a strong family history of blood cancers, the Center for Early Detection and Interception of Blood Cancers at Dana-Farber provides personalized risk assessments an...

Mark Pomerantz, MD, discusses the complexities of prostate cancer screening. The American Cancer Society recommends that men over 50 with a 10-year or more life expectancy consider PSA screening and consult their primary care doctor. Screening is especially important for men with a family history of the disease and men of West African ancestry, who should begin screening in their 40s. The goal of...

In this episode of Cancer Questions with Dana-Farber, Jennifer Ligibel, MD, explores the link between exercise and cancer risk. Research shows that people who are more active—whether through exercise, household chores, or physical jobs—tend to have a lower risk of developing common cancers such as breast, colon, and prostate cancer. While exercise likely plays a key role, other factors like diet,...

Heather A. Parsons, MD, MPH, discusses how family history, genetics, and lifestyle factors like smoking and obesity can influence cancer risk in young people. Learn why early detection and healthy habits matter. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://www.dana-farber.org/

William Pirl, MD, MPH, explains how anxiety and stress can lead to behaviors like smoking, drinking, and poor diet, which increase cancer risk. Managing stress can support healthier habits and potentially lower cancer risk by promoting overall well-being. Learn more about Dana-Farber Cancer Institute: https://www.dana-farber.org/

Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, explains how skin color influences melanoma risk. While individuals with lighter skin tones have a higher risk of cutaneous melanoma, those with darker skin tones are still at risk, particularly for melanomas on the hands, feet, or mucous membranes. These melanomas are often harder to detect, more aggressive, and diagnosed later, making early detection crucial. Watching f...

Dana-Farber's Tim Rebbeck, PhD, discusses PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," and their link to cancer. Research shows that PFAS exposure is associated with kidney and testicular cancers due to DNA damage and immune system changes. While PFAS exposure often comes from drinking water, the best way to reduce overall cancer risk is by avoiding or quitting smoking, limiting processed foods and al...

Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, explains why supplements are not recommended for cancer prevention. Research indicates that whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are more effective in promoting overall health and lowering cancer risk. A balanced diet featuring fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based foods plays a key role in reducing cancer risk. Discover more about integra...

Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains the link between food additives and cancer risk. Certain additives, such as nitrates and nitrites found in processed meats like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, have been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Christina highlights how reducing ultra-processed foods and focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits,...

Ann LaCasce, MD, oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains what to do if you discover a lump or enlarged lymph node on your body. Learn why consulting a medical professional is crucial for identifying potential causes, such as infections or other conditions, and determining whether further steps like imaging or a biopsy are needed. Want to learn more about early detection and cancer car...

What are the risk factors for lung cancer? In this episode of Cancer Questions with Dana-Farber, David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, discusses lung cancer risk factors and highlights why quitting smoking is so important. Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer

Why is genetic counseling an important part of genetic testing?   Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes genetic counselors' vital role in helping patients comprehend the risks of genetic mutations, interpreting results, and more.   Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/cancer-prevention-...

Does vaping increase your risk of cancer?  David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the historical patterns seen with cigarette smoking and lung cancer and explains why similar patterns might emerge with vaping.  While it's too early to say definitively, due to the typical 30-year lag between behavioral changes and observed cancer rates, concerns are certainl...

How do you reduce your cancer risk if you've had a history of sunburns?  Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, emphasizes the importance of paying attention to changes in the skin and using sun protection.  Want to learn more about skin cancer risk, screening and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/cutaneous-skin-cancer   

Are there any screening options for gynecologic cancers?   Susanne Menon, a nurse practitioner at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights various screening methods for gynecological cancers.   Want to learn more about gynecologic cancer screening, risk and prevention of gynecologic cancers? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/gynecologic-oncology   

Does eating a plant-based diet reduce cancer risk?    Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights how integrating plant-based foods into your diet may reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. She shares helpful tips for maintaining a well-balanced diet.   Want to learn more about integrative therapies and healthy living? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.or...

Does marijuana increase cancer risk?  David Jackman, MD, senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, talks about the latest available data.  Want to learn more about lung cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/treatment/thoracic-lung-cancer   

Do cancers always have a genetic component?  Huma Rana, MD, MPH, physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explains how 15% of cancers are linked to inherited mutations. These mutations frequently affect tumor suppressor genes, increasing the risk of cancer development in individuals born with such mutations.   Want to learn more about cancer genetics and cancer prevention? Visit: https://www.dan...

Do processed foods cause cancer?  Christina Conte, RDN, LDN, nutritionist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the impact of foods with added sugars, sodium, and artificial ingredients on cancer risk and emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet.   Want to learn more about integrative therapies and healthy living? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/patient-family/support-services/integra...

Can deodorant cause breast cancer?  Tim Rebbeck, PhD, professor of Cancer Prevention at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, explores the research and evidence surrounding the components found in deodorants and their link to breast cancer.    Want to learn more about breast cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/types/breast-cancer      

Can vitamin D reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?  Kimmie Ng, MD, MPH, medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, helps answer the common question: Can vitamin D reduce my risk of colorectal cancer?  Clinical trials have not shown that taking a supplement can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. However, high doses of vitamin D may help to slow the progression of colorectal c...

Do birth control pills affect cancer risk?  Wendy Chen, MD, medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights the link between birth control pills and breast cancer, the role of estrogen and progesterone in contraceptives, and the findings of modern studies on their safety.  Want to learn more about breast cancer risk and prevention? Visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/cancer-care/type...

How to know if you're at higher risk for skin cancer?  Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD, a senior physician at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, highlights risk factors for skin cancer, including family history, skin type, and UV exposure.  Buchbinder emphasizes why individuals with a history of skin cancer in the family or significant UV exposure should consider regular check-ups with a dermatologist and mon...