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:

1. Deng's path into lung cancer research and thoracic oncology

2. Advances in targeted therapies and precision oncology for key lung cancer mutations

3. The role of biomarkers and immunotherapy in treatment decision-making

4. Innovative clinical trials at Fred Hutch and the University of Washington

5. Early detection, rapid molecular testing and multidisciplinary care

6. Patient-centered care, including communication, emotional support and shared decision-making

Timestamps:

1. 00:07 - Introduction to Dr. Lei Deng and her work in thoracic oncology

2. 01:21 - Dr. Deng's pathway into lung cancer research and joining Fred Hutch

3. 02:57 - Exploring current research focus areas and promising trials in precision medicine

4. 07:35 - The significance of MTAP loss and targeted therapy development

5. 10:20 - Rapid access to care and multidisciplinary team collaboration

6. 14:44 - Molecular testing timing and its role in personalized lung cancer treatment

7. 16:46 - Trends in young patients with lung cancer and multifactorial etiology

8. 18:25 - Impact and future of lung cancer screening programs

9. 22:54 - Genetic predisposition and familial risk assessments

10. 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