My Breast My Health

In today's episode, I explore the question: Why does breast cancer come back after treatment? I discuss the mechanisms that can lead to cancer recurrence, offering insights into microscopic spread, lymph node involvement, resilient cells, dormant cancer cells, incomplete treatment, and genetic mutations. Join me in this solo episode where I uncover the reasons behind breast cancer recurrence and learn about the possible treatment options for those who experience a recurrence. You can connect with me on Instagram and let me know your thoughts. Also, if you have any particular topics you want to discuss with me, then let me know too. I hope you find this episode useful. Tasha

In this episode of "My Breast, My Health," I delve into the lesser-known but crucial topic of inflammatory breast cancer. I explore the challenging diagnosis, symptoms, treatment, and prognosis of this aggressive type of breast cancer. I discuss the unique presentation of inflammatory breast cancer, the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent symptoms, and the evolving treatment options. Join us as we uncover essential insights about this rare form of breast cancer and shed light on valuable information for both patients and caregivers. DM me on Instagram and let me know your thoughts. Thank you for listening. Tasha

Hi friend, Today, we delve into the world of radiotherapy and explore its potential side effects. The majority of people tolerate radiotherapy well. However, like with most clinical treatments, there can be potential side effects. Short-term side effects of radiotherapy may include skin reactions, fatigue, and breast changes. Whilst long term side effects can range from changes in breast appearance, lymphoedema, and nerve damage, to rare risks such as angiosarcoma. In this episode, I cover all things related to this type of treatment. Radiotherapy can have its challenges, but modern techniques have minimised many of these issues. Remember, communication with your healthcare team is key. Hope you enjoy the episode. PS, if you want to learn more about how exercise can be beneficial in combating fatigue around breast cancer treatment, then I recommend you listen to this episode with Sarah Newman. Tasha x

Welcome to a solo episode of "My Breast My Health," where your host, Tasha Gandamihardja, delves into the cutting-edge realm of cancer detection using a blood test. In this enlightening discussion, Dr Tasha sheds light on the groundbreaking potential of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in transforming the landscape of cancer detection and monitoring. Discover the advantages of ctDNA, its promising role in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, and its ability to guide personalised treatment decisions. Join us as Dr Tasha uncovers how ctDNA testing could revolutionise early-stage cancer detection, monitor treatment response, and even play a pivotal role in guiding personalised treatment decisions. I hope you enjoy this episode. You can connect with Dr Tasha on Instagram and let her know what you thought about the episode. xx

Welcome back to "My Breast My Health," where we shed light on important topics related to breast health. In today's solo episode, we're delving into the world of DCIS, also known as ductal carcinoma in situ. We'll be tackling what it is, how it presents, the treatment options available, and the prognosis associated with it. DCIS is a non-invasive form of breast cancer, confined to the milk ducts and not spreading into the surrounding breast tissue. It often goes undetected without presenting symptoms and is usually identified through breast screening, such as mammograms. However, it can manifest through calcifications on mammograms, nipple discharge, or as a less common breast lump. As we navigate through this episode, we'll explore the diagnostic process, surgical and non-surgical treatment options, and the reasons behind treating a non-invasive condition. We'll also dive into the risk of recurrence following treatment and the crucial role of regular follow-up and maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-treatment. So if you've ever wondered about DCIS and its implications, stick around as we unpack its complexities and implications. And don't forget, you can always reach out to me on Instagram @DrTashaG with any questions or feedback. I hope you enjoy this episode!

In this episode, I have a conversation with Dr. D Dizon, an oncologist who will be shedding light on an important topic that many breast cancer patients are apprehensive about – chemotherapy. Dr. Dizon is a professor of medicine and surgery at the prestigious Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. With a clinical focus on pelvic cancers, including those of the ovary, uterus, and cervix, Dr. Dizon also provides care for individuals with breast cancer and soft tissue sarcoma. Beyond his clinical practice, he has developed a special interest in survivorship, particularly in the area of sexuality after cancer, recognizing the unique challenges and needs of cancer survivors in their post-treatment journey. Dr. Dizon will delve into what chemotherapy is, how it works, and its role in treating different subtypes of breast cancer. We will learn about the advancements and new treatment options available, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, that provide more personalized approaches for patients. We'll also be exploring the concept of survivorship and how it extends beyond just being cancer-free. Dr. Dizon will discuss the importance of addressing aspects like healthy lifestyles, sexuality, and nutrition for individuals with metastatic breast cancer through the Oncology Wellness Lifestyles and Survivorship Program offered at Brown University. Embracing the power of social media as a platform for education and advocacy, Dr. Dizon has made a significant impact by actively engaging with diverse audiences on various platforms, including Twitter and TikTok. Through these channels, he seeks to raise awareness, offer support, and share valuable insights to promote a greater understanding of cancer survivorship and the importance of addressing the holistic needs of individuals impacted by cancer. Join us as we unravel the truths and misconceptions about chemotherapy, learn about the latest developments in breast cancer treatment, and understand the significance of survivorship. Connect with Dr D Dizon on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can access CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians here. Connect with Dr Tasha on Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. I hope you enjoy the episode. Tasha

Welcome to the My Breast, My Health podcast. In this episode, our host and breast surgeon, Tasha Gandamihardja, dives into the different types of breast cancers. Tasha discusses the common types encountered in clinical practice, including invasive ductal carcinomas, invasive lobular carcinomas, triple-negative breast cancers, inflammatory breast cancers, and DCIS. She provides insights into the origins of these cancers, their presentation, and the potential treatment approaches. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these prevalent breast cancer types and their implications for health and treatment. You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG. You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG Thank you for listening.

In this episode of "My Breast My Health," host Tasha Gandamihardja, a breast cancer surgeon, delves into the topic of "Embracing Emotional Resilience" in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis. She outlines four strategies designed to help cope with the mental and physical impact of a breast cancer diagnosis, offering actionable steps and a bonus strategy. Tasha emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional landscape, cultivating coping mechanisms, building a support system, and prioritizing self-care. She also highlights the value of finding strength in information and encourages listeners to connect with her on social media to share their thoughts. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice on navigating the emotional journey of a breast cancer diagnosis. You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG. You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG Thank you for listening.

In this episode of "My Breast, My Health," host Tasha Gandamihardja is joined by special guest Sarah Newman, founder of Get Me Back. Together, they dive into the crucial topic of exercising post-surgery, particularly for those recovering from breast cancer treatment. The episode delves into the importance of strength training, the benefits of consistent physio exercises, and strategies for maintaining motivation for exercise. Listeners will gain insights into recommended exercise timelines post-surgery, the significance of gradual strength training progression, and the positive impact of physical activity on overall health. Plus, they'll discover Sarah's personal journey from cancer diagnosis to becoming a cancer rehabilitation trainer and the launch of an online community for women's fitness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance on exercise after breast cancer treatment and a deeper understanding of the role of fitness in post-surgery recovery. Connect with Sarah on IG @getmebackuk You can also check out her website www.getmeback.uk You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG. You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG Thank you for listening.

Welcome to "My Breast My Health," the podcast where we discuss everything related to breast health and breast cancer. In this episode, our host Tasha delves into the important topic of breast cancer recurrence. Tasha covers the areas where cancer can recur and explains the significance of early detection. She provides valuable insights on self-examinations, signs to look out for, and the role of scans in detecting recurrences. Tasha also highlights the red flag symptoms of distant recurrence and the importance of seeking medical attention if any of these symptoms are experienced. Stay tuned for an informative and insightful discussion on this crucial aspect of breast cancer care. You can connect with Tasha on IG and TikTok @DrTashaG. You can check out her YouTube channel at www.YouTube.com/@DrTashaG Thank you for listening.

Breast cancer in the South Asian community is a topic that doesn't get talked much about. My guest on today's show, Iyna Butt, knows all about this. You see, Iyna is a British South Asian woman, and when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she soon realised that cancer in general, let alone breast cancer specifically, seems to be a subject that nobody talks about. Although no doubt the intentions were good, she was given all sorts of strange advice about what she needed to do to get rid of her cancer; like wearing a black bra for example! She knew then that she had to do something about this. In this episode, Iyna talks about her breast cancer diagnosis, her charity work in raising breast cancer awareness within the South Asian community, and the challenges that need to be overcome to ensure that women from all backgrounds are catered for within the health care sphere. Check out the show notes at https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode40 Connect with me on social @DrTashaG and say hi! It would be great to see you there. Happy listening! Tasha x

How does yoga help with breast cancer recovery? We all know that exercise and movement are not only good for our health, it also has a positive impact on the outcome of breast cancer treatment. Many of you may already practice yoga, and no doubt you already know about the various benefits it brings. But, if you have had treatment for breast cancer, can yoga help with recovery? In this episode, Marcia Mercier, explains how she embraced yoga and its impact on her own recovery following her breast cancer diagnosis. Now as a fully qualified yoga instructor, she talks about the dos and don'ts of yoga practice in breast cancer recovery. She describes the best classes to take as well as the poses one should avoid. Marcia also explains how yoga not only benefits the physical aspect of recovery, but also the mental side of things. Yoga is such a holistic practice and the benefits can be far-reaching. You can check out the show notes: https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode39 Do connect with me on IG @DrTashaG and say hi! Happy listening Tasha x

In this episode, we are talking about all things bra-related. If you think you know about bras..think again. In this episode, I talk to Julie Blanche who is an expert bra fitter. It was a great conversation and you wouldn't believe how complex the world of bras can be. You don't know what you don't know. That is so true. At the end of this episode, you will learn so much. We talked about so many things, including the best way to put on a bra, how to look after them as well as ways to achieve symmetry following breast surgery. Give it a listen, your bras will thank you for it! Follow me on social media. Find me on IG and Twitter @DrTashaG. Happy listening! Tasha x

Life is predictably unpredictable. Things happen randomly, unexpectedly, and out of our control. A breast cancer diagnosis for example is such a life event. Similarly, after breast cancer treatment has finished, you can't predict how you recover. You may find changes to the breast. You may be feeling certain symptoms that you are not particularly sure of. You may need support for your mental well-being. All of these don't happen on a particular day at a particular time. So, what happens when you do find unusual symptoms and need help? An open-access follow-up service may be the solution. This is an alternative way of following up with those who have finished treatment for their primary breast cancer. Instead of going to a follow-up clinic once a year, you can get support at a time that is suitable for you. In this episode, Kieva Noble who runs such a service discusses how an open-access follow-up service works. We talk about how she ensures the holistic needs of patients are addressed, who is eligible to join and what happens when someone does indeed need help and support. It was a great conversation, which I know you'll enjoy. Let me know what you think about this episode and all the others by saying hi to me on social media @DrTashaG. Happy listening. Tasha x

Welcome back to the podcast! In this solo episode, I talk about all things related to breast cancer recurrence. This is the one thing most patients fear... the fear of cancer coming back. In this episode, I talk about the types of breast cancer recurrences, what can be done to treat it and what symptoms to look out for. I hope this is useful, and if you want to check out the show notes, head over to: https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode36 Connect with me on Instagram @DrTashaG and let me know what you think about this or any of the other episodes. Happy listening! Tasha x

Dr Bob Octovianus is a breast surgeon in Indonesia, one of the most populous countries in the world. With that comes many challenges. Limited resources, financial restrictions and cultural barriers. He also explains the lack of breast cancer awareness in the community leading to patients presenting to his clinics with locally advanced cancers. This episode highlights the differences in health care provisions across the world. Certain things taken for granted in one country can be the reason why a different treatment decision is made in another. Dr Bob was honest in sharing his experiences, not only the challenges that he faces, but also his triumphs. He is passionate to increase breast cancer awareness in Indonesia and for this he leverages the power of social media, especially Instagram. Do connect with Dr Bob on Instagram @AskBobRSOS. Connect with me on Instagram @DrTashaG. It was a fantastic conversation from which I learnt a great deal. If you want to have an insight into how breast cancer treatment is in a developing country, this is the episode to check out. Happy listening. Tasha x

So, this episode is slightly different. Today I am going to take you behind the scenes on an operating day. For those who have never had surgery, you may wonder what happens on a day when a surgeon operates? What time does it start? How does the day run? What are the different activities that happen behind the scene to make sure that all surgeries are done and all patients are taken care of? This episode was recorded nearly 12 months after the first lockdown was instigated. You can compare this episode to the one I recorded when the UK went into the first lockdown here: https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode14. It would be interesting to hear your thoughts when you compare the two episodes. Do connect with me on Instagram @DrTashaG and let me know what you think about this episode, and let me know if you want me to do more of these behind the scenes types of podcasts. Happy listening. Tasha x

We live in a digital age and more and more of us are downloading health apps in order to boost and improve our health and wellbeing. But, how can a health app be helpful for those who have been diagnosed with breast cancer? Dr Anne Bruinvels is the founder of the app OWise, a health app that is designed to help patients with breast cancer. It is essentially a one-stop shop which can be used to store information surrounding the cancer treatment, record and monitor side effects and allows the information to be shared to doctors or family members. It even has a recording facility within the app that allows clinic consultations to be recorded to be listened to later. And all this is within an app where the data is encrypted and is GDPR compliant and secure. It was a great conversation and Anne shares so many important tips surrounding health tech in general. Do listen to the end as she describes the things to look out for before downloading a health app, to make sure it is safe, robust and secure. Check out the show notes at: https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode33 Do DM me on Instagram @DrTashaG and let me know what you think about this or any of the other episodes you may have checked out. Happy listening! Tasha x

The field of functional and integrative medicine is becoming increasingly recognised by the mainstream. If you haven't come across these areas, then this is the podcast episode for you. Dr Nina Fuller-Shavel is my guest today. She is an integrative medicine practitioner, who initially trained as a natural scientist and then entered medicine. She became slightly disillusioned by how very disease centric medicine is and she realised that the other areas of nutrition, health and wellbeing of patients were not being addressed adequately. Her diagnosis of breast cancer in her early 30s became the catalyst of her entering this field. We talked about the differences between functional and integrative medicine, and how the two complement each other. She explains why she feels modern medicine as it currently stands is not equipped in dealing with the person holistically and what needs to be done to change that. It was a great conversation which you will enjoy. You can find the show notes at: https://mybreastmyhealth.com/episode32 Connect with me on social media, either Instagram or Twitter. Happy listening. Tasha x