1. As we honor Cervical Health Awareness Month, what do you feel is the most important message to share with our community (patients/colleagues/general community)?
Most cervical cancer is caused by certain Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types and is entirely preventable by HPV vaccines and regular screening by the gynecologists. HPV vaccination is now recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12 years, and everyone through age 26 years, if they are not vaccinated already. It is very important to schedule routine annual gynecologic examinations, during which a cervical smear can be obtained for HPV-testing and for cytological examination that can detect early pre-cancerous cells before invasive cancer develops.
2. How do you collaborate with the gynecological oncology team at Smilow Cancer Hospital to care for your patients with cervical cancer?
Our gynecologic pathology team evaluates cervical biopsies from patients with abnormal Pap smear results and/or HPV positivity to identify and precisely classify pre-cancerous lesions or cervical cancer. Depending on the type of lesion the gynecologic oncology team at Smilow Cancer Hospital proceeds with surgery – larger cervical excision or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) – to remove the involved tissues. We work very closely and discuss all pathology and clinical findings at our weekly tumor boards to formulate the best personalized therapeutic plan for each patient.
3. How do you connect with clinicians treating patients with cervical cancer to bridge laboratory research to clinical care?
We apply the most up-to-date diagnostic criteria to classify different types of cervical tumors, since pathology classification is one of the most important factors that determines the patient’s prognosis and the therapeutic approach. We collaborate with the gynecologic oncology team in clinical research studies and several ongoing clinical trials that bring new treatment options (e.g., immunotherapy) for patients with cervical cancer.
4. Mentorship is an important part of cancer research—what is your favorite way to keep your team engaged and learning from one another?
I really enjoy teaching and mentoring pathology residents and gynecologic pathology fellows. One of my favorite activities is our monthly gynecologic pathology journal club where faculty and trainees present recent scientific articles typically related to pathogenesis, diagnosis, or prognosis of different gynecologic cancer types. We always have a great discussion, which inspires new directions in our clinical work and research.
5. Cancer prevention is one of the key priorities following the NCI’s 50th anniversary of the National Cancer Act. How can we prioritize cancer prevention in our daily lives?
HPV vaccination is one of the best tools we have currently to prevent cervical cancer. I had my daughters vaccinated and I strongly encourage all parents to get their kids (girls—and boys as well!) vaccinated against HPV. It is also very important to comply with the cancer screening guidelines and schedule regular screening appointments with our providers. Early recognition of precancerous lesions or small cancers saves lives. If the patient waits until they already have symptoms—abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pelvic pain—the cervical cancer may be more advanced and require more aggressive treatment.