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Proudly produced by The Oncology Network

When does aggressive cancer treatment shift from beneficial to harmful? This powerful conversation between Professor Nathan Cherny and Professor Christopher Jackson tackles one of oncology's most challenging ethical dilemmas – overtreatment at the end of life.

Drawing on his extensive experience and research, Professor Cherny illuminates the complex factors driving excessive treatment, from departmental culture to cognitive biases. 

"Oncologists need to learn not only when to treat, but when not to treat," he emphasises, highlighting how treatment decisions for poor-performance status patients with resistant disease require particular scrutiny. 

The discussion reveals eye-opening research showing patients might consider additional treatment worthwhile only if it provided 12-18 months of quality life – far beyond what late-line therapies typically deliver.

Throughout the conversation, both oncologists acknowledge the delicate balance between appropriate intervention and knowing when to step back. Professor Cherny offers practical guidance for reframing hope beyond treatment response and recognising that courage exists not only in pursuing another treatment but also in saying "enough." This nuanced exploration of patient-centred decision-making provides a valuable perspective for clinicians, patients, and families navigating cancer's most difficult moments.

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The Oncology Podcast - An Australian Oncology Perspective