Onc Now | Episode 11
In this episode of the Onc Now Podcast, host Dr Jonathan Sackier is joined by Professor Donal Brennan, a leader in gynaecological oncology and Principal Investigator at Systems Biology Ireland. Together, they discuss advances in ovarian cancer surgery, including cytoreductive techniques and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), as well as the impact of obesity on cancer development and treatment strategies.
Professor Brennan also shares insights on platinum resistance in ovarian cancer, the FeMMe trial exploring weight loss as a treatment for endometrial cancer, and his innovative approaches in surgical oncology.
This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in the future of cancer treatment, innovation in surgery, and patient-centred care.
Spotify | Apple | Amazon Music | Download MP3 (41 mins)
Professor Donal Brennan is Professor of Gynaecological Oncology at University College Dublin and a Principal Investigator at Systems Biology Ireland. His work focuses on obesity-related carcinogenesis, platinum resistance, and immunotherapy in ovarian cancer.
A leader in both clinical and research innovation, Professor Brennan has performed over 500 radical cytoreductive procedures for ovarian cancer and has pioneered the use of weight loss interventions in cancer treatment. He is also deeply involved in surgical innovation, with patents and novel techniques improving surgical outcomes in gynaecological oncology.
Outside of medicine, Professor Brennan enjoys golf, running, skiing, and supporting his children’s sporting activities, his favourite form of mindfulness.
00:00 – Introduction
01:51 – Music debates in the surgical theatre
03:42 – Evolution of surgical techniques in ovarian cancer
06:32 – The importance of early diagnosis
08:18 – State-of-the-art on HIPEC in gynaecological oncology
11:36 – Obesity’s impact on cancer diagnosis and treatment
19:06 – The FeMMe trial: weight loss as a treatment for endometrial cancer
21:47 – Platinum resistance in ovarian cancer and future therapies
28:14 – Innovation in gynaecological surgery and medical technology
29:53 – The COMFORT trial: mental health and cancer treatment
33:24 – Biggest challenges and opportunities in gynaecological oncology research
37:42 – Three wishes for the future of cancer treatment
