Inside the Science Changing Lung Cancer Treatment

In this episode of the Oncology Insights Podcast, host Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO, speaks with Lei Deng, MD, a thoracic oncologist at Fred Hutch Cancer Center and the University of Washington, about advances in lung cancer research and patient care. Deng discusses how precision medicine, immunotherapy and rapid molecular testing are improving outcomes for patients with lung cancer. The conversation also highlights the importance of early detection, team-based care and delivering treatment that reflects patients' values and priorities. Key topics include: Deng's path into lung cancer research and thoracic oncology Advances in targeted therapies and precision oncology for key lung cancer mutations The role of biomarkers and immunotherapy in treatment decision-making Innovative clinical trials at Fred Hutch and the University of Washington Early detection, rapid molecular testing and multidisciplinary care Patient-centered care, including communication, emotional support and shared decision-making Timestamps: 00:07 - Introduction to Dr. Lei Deng and her work in thoracic oncology 01:21 - Dr. Deng's pathway into lung cancer research and joining Fred Hutch 02:57 - Exploring current research focus areas and promising trials in precision medicine 07:35 - The significance of MTAP loss and targeted therapy development 10:20 - Rapid access to care and multidisciplinary team collaboration 14:44 - Molecular testing timing and its role in personalized lung cancer treatment 16:46 - Trends in young patients with lung cancer and multifactorial etiology 18:25 - Impact and future of lung cancer screening programs 22:54 - Genetic predisposition and familial risk assessments 24:28 - The importance of patient communication and listening to patient voices Resources & Links: Fred Hutch Cancer Center: fredhutch.org Lei Deng, MD, provider profile: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/provider-directory/lei-deng.html Petros Grivas, MD, PhD, FASCO, provider profile: https://www.fredhutch.org/en/provider-directory/petros-grivas.html