All Things Cancer | National Foundation for Cancer Research

In this episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Dr. Isaac Witz, the 2023 Szent-Györgyi Prize for Progress in Cancer Research laureate and a pioneer in tumor microenvironment science. Decades before it became a central focus of oncology, Dr. Witz recognized that cancer is not just about tumor cells—it’s about the environment that surrounds them.Dr. Witz shares how he challenged conventional thinking, why keeping patients at the center of research matters, and how his discoveries reshaped cancer treatment worldwide. From immune responses inside tumors to overlooked “orphan results” and the role of collaboration, this conversation explores both the groundbreaking past and the future of holistic, patient-driven cancer research.Listeners will hear Dr. Witz’s insights on:The origins of tumor microenvironment research.Why therapies must go beyond targeting cancer cells.The importance of integrating overlooked discoveries into clinical progress.His vision for AI and international collaboration in advancing cures.

In this episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Dr. Drew Pardoll, a pioneer in cancer immunology, to explore the breakthroughs reshaping cancer research. From harnessing the immune system and advancing protein, cell, and microbial engineering to launching biotech startups that translate discoveries into real treatments, Dr. Pardoll shares how innovation and collaboration are driving cures forward. Together, they also reflect on the vital role of young scientists, the importance of smarter clinical trials, and what’s next on the horizon for cancer patients worldwide.

Continuing our Survivor Mini-Series: In this powerful episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Cheryl, a stage IV melanoma survivor whose determination and persistence changed the course of her life. Told she might not live to see another holiday, Cheryl refused to accept “no” for an answer. Her relentless search led her to a groundbreaking clinical trial that not only saved her life but helped shape the future of melanoma treatment and cancer research as a whole.Cheryl opens up about the shock of diagnosis, the uphill battle to find care, the side effects of early-stage therapies, and the unwavering hope that carried her forward. She also shares lessons for patients, families, and doctors about advocacy, resilience, and the importance of communication in cancer care.Her story is one of courage, survival, and transformation—and a reminder that research saves lives.

In this powerful episode of All Things Cancer, host Dr. Sujuan Ba convenes some of the most forward-thinking voices in oncology to explore how early detection and early intervention are reshaping the future of cancer care. Featuring insights from Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, Dr. Samir Hanash, Dr. Steven Lipkin, Dr. Sapna Syngal, Dr. Ajay Goel, and Dr. Carlos Doti, this conversation dives into breakthroughs in biomarkers, liquid biopsies, genetic risk modeling, cancer interception, and how equitable access remains the key to meaningful progress.From the lab bench to real-world implementation, this episode reveals how science, strategy, and compassion must align to truly reduce cancer mortality.Original music featured in this episode is composed and performed by David Tolk.Explore more of his work at: www.youtube.com/@DavidTolkMusic

In this inaugural episode of our special Survivor Series on All Things Cancer, NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with breast cancer survivor and NFCR Community Ambassador, Hope Stewart. With honesty, warmth, and insight, Hope shares her journey from diagnosis to recovery—highlighting the moments that tested her, the community that uplifted her, and the research that saved her life.From navigating a cold, clinical diagnosis to finding comfort in a compassionate care team, Hope opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment, and how they ultimately inspired her to speak out, support others, and give back through advocacy and fundraising.Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or passionate about advancing cancer research, this conversation is a powerful reminder of why survivor voices matter—and how NFCR’s mission plays a critical role in turning hope into cures.

Every cancer breakthrough begins with a single step—funding. In this episode of All Things Cancer, NFCR CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba speaks with leading researchers about the funding crisis threatening cancer research across the U.S. and beyond. From early-stage, high-risk studies to game-changing therapies now approaching clinical trials, these conversations reveal what’s possible when bold science is backed by strong support—and what’s lost when it isn’t.Hear from:Dr. Aaron Hata (Mass General Hospital)Dr. Jessica Lin (Mass General Cancer Center)Dr. Wayne Marasco (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute)Dr. Susan Horwitz (Albert Einstein College of Medicine)Dr. Alfred Slanetz and Dr. Raju Kucherlapati (Harvard Medical School)Whether you're a donor, advocate, or simply passionate about progress, this episode makes one thing clear: cancer doesn't wait—and neither can we.

This special edition of All Things Cancer features a powerful conversation with Dr. Rakesh Jain—pioneering scientist, educator, and longtime NFCR-supported researcher—on the eve of receiving the 2025 AACR Lifetime Achievement Award.In this inspiring episode, Dr. Jain sits down with NFCR President and CEO Dr. Sujuan Ba to reflect on his decades of groundbreaking work, including his revolutionary concept of vascular normalization, which has reshaped how we treat cancer. Together, they discuss:How unconventional thinking led to new cancer therapiesThe impact of NFCR’s early seed funding on high-risk researchThe promise of affordable treatments like Losartan for brain tumorsWhy collaboration and bold science are essential to progress“Without risk, science can’t move forward. NFCR understood that from the beginning.” – Dr. Rakesh JainTune in to hear how Dr. Jain’s work is saving lives, shaping clinical trials, and making the future of cancer care more accessible—around the world.🎧 Listen now and subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes.

In this episode of All Things Cancer, we sit down with Nobel Laureate Dr. James Allison—the trailblazing scientist who changed the course of cancer treatment by harnessing the power of the immune system. From his early curiosity about T cells to the groundbreaking discovery of immune checkpoint inhibitors, Dr. Allison shares the story behind one of the most important cancer breakthroughs of our time.Hosted by Dr. Sujuan Ba, this conversation dives into the challenges of going against scientific consensus, the long road to clinical success, and the human impact of immunotherapy. You’ll hear how perseverance, rock music, and a deep belief in basic science helped fuel a revolution in cancer care.Whether you're a researcher, a patient, or someone passionate about medical innovation, this is a must-listen episode that explores the science—and the soul—of cancer research.

A Conversation with Dr. Dennis Slamon: The Breakthrough Behind Herceptin and the Future of Cancer ResearchIn this special episode, Dr. Sujuan Ba, CEO of the National Foundation for Cancer Research, sits down with Dr. Dennis Slamon, recipient of the 2024 Szent-Györgyi Prize for Progress in Cancer Research. Together, they explore the pioneering research and collaborations that eventually led to the FDA approval of Herceptin—a life-saving therapy for HER2-positive breast cancer. Dr. Slamon reflects on his early scientific journey, the team-driven efforts behind the breakthrough, and the pivotal partnerships with Genentech and patient advocates that helped turn promising science into transformative treatment. He also shares insights on the evolution of targeted therapies, the growing promise of early detection, and his advice for the next generation of cancer researchers. This episode is a tribute to scientific perseverance, patient collaboration, and a shared vision for advancing cancer research.

Are we fighting cancer the wrong way? In this powerful episode of All Things Cancer, Dr. Azra Raza—renowned oncologist, researcher, and author of The First Cell—sits down with NFCR’s Dr. Sujuan Ba to challenge the status quo of cancer treatment.Dr. Raza argues that instead of chasing the last cancer cell with toxic treatments, we must shift our focus to detecting and eliminating the first cancer cell before it spreads. She shares groundbreaking research, personal stories, and a passionate call to action for a new era of early detection and prevention.This is a must-listen conversation for anyone invested in the future of cancer research.

In this inspiring episode, Dr. Sujuan Ba, CEO of the National Foundation for Cancer Research, sits down with Dr. Margaret Foti, CEO of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), to discuss her remarkable career, the evolution of cancer research, and the critical challenges facing the field today. Dr. Foti reflects on her early journey, from being mentored in academia to leading AACR for over 40 years, transforming it into a global force for cancer research. She shares insights on the importance of fostering young scientists, increasing diversity in leadership, and strengthening global collaborations. The conversation also highlights the urgent need for more funding in early detection and intervention, the role of entrepreneurship in driving innovation, and the impact of targeted therapies on patient outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of cancer research, leadership, and the power of collaboration to drive groundbreaking discoveries.