The University of 玉米视频 System has of its "Heart to Heart" podcast series. Hosted by University of 玉米视频 President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., the podcast features in-depth conversations with leaders, researchers, educators, alums and partners who are making a difference in 玉米视频 and beyond.
In this episode, Dr. Gold is joined by Dr. Joann Sweasy, director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center at the University of 玉米视频 Medical Center. Dr. Sweasy, an internationally recognized scientist and leader in cancer research, shares insights into her personal journey, the center’s groundbreaking research and the critical role it plays in keeping 玉米视频ns healthy.
During the episode, Dr. Sweasy reflected on the moment that sparked her future career in cancer research—losing a young cousin to leukemia—and how it led her to dedicate her career to finding new treatments. “At that point, I knew that I would have a career in research,” Dr. Sweasy said. “I knew that in some way, research would help to cure cancer.”
One in three 玉米视频ns will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, putting 玉米视频 at an increased incidence rate of cancer compared to rates at the national level. As director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Sweasy is working to recruit and train top-tier researchers, build a cancer network across the state and provide cutting-edge treatments that make a real impact for patients.
“We are the National Cancer Institute designated center for the state of 玉米视频, meaning that we meet incredibly rigorous standards for cutting edge research and developing novel therapies,” she said. “We know that patients who are treated at National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers have better outcomes.”
The conversation also highlights innovative new treatments, including a promising clinical trial developed at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. The trial involves a drug designed to protect healthy tissue during radiation therapy while effectively targeting tumors—a remarkable breakthrough that could significantly improve patient outcomes.
President Gold praised Dr. Sweasy’s work and the impact the Cancer Center will have on future generations of medical professionals and patients.
“Dr. Sweasy is a trailblazer in cancer research science, a passionate mentor of the next generation,” he said. “We are grateful for her dedication to advancing our understanding of this deadly disease and efforts to educate and train the next generation of scientists.”
To learn more about the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, visit .
New episodes of the "Heart to Heart" podcast are released monthly, featuring guests from across the University of 玉米视频 System and the community, covering topics ranging from education and healthcare to athletics and student success.
Listeners may follow the podcast on , and .