The Breast Cancer Podcast

I am grateful to have Dr. Shabana Dewani join me for this conversation. The words “stage IV breast cancer” can bring an enormous amount of fear. But fear is often made worse by uncertainty and misconceptions. In Part 1 of our special three-part series on metastatic breast cancer, we go back to the basics: What exactly is metastatic breast cancer? How is it different from early-stage disease? Where can breast cancer spread? And what does a metastatic diagnosis really mean for someone's life and future? We also address some of the most common myths surrounding stage IV disease—including the belief that there are no treatment options or that someone with metastatic breast cancer will always look or feel sick. While metastatic breast cancer remains a serious diagnosis, treatment has evolved tremendously. Care is increasingly personalized to the biology of the cancer, with the goals of controlling disease, helping patients live longer, preserving quality of life, and managing symptoms. Most importantly, we talk about something every patient deserves from their medical team: Honesty and hope can exist together. If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, you do not need to have all the answers today. You are more than a stage. You are more than a scan. And you are not alone. We are both grateful to have conversations that elevate awareness and strengthen our community. Dr. Shabana Dewani is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine—and a joy to listen to! She breaks down the oncology process and important factors when deciding treatment. You'll be able to hear her passion for helping others ensuring they get the best treatment possible. Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

What if one of the most powerful tools to help cancer patients wasn't another medication—but movement? In this episode of The Breast Cancer Podcast, Dr. Mark Cripe and I sit down with one of the world's leading pioneers in Exercise Oncology, Dr. Jay Harness, to discuss why exercise is becoming an essential part of cancer care. We explore: 💗 How exercise reduces cancer-related fatigue, anxiety, and depression 🏃‍♀️ The science behind Exercise Oncology 📊 The groundbreaking CHALLENGE Trial and why it has changed the conversation about cancer survivorship 🎗️ What breast cancer survivors should know about reducing recurrence risk and improving quality of life 💪 Practical advice on how to get started—even if you're currently undergoing treatment As both a breast surgeon and a breast cancer survivor, I can honestly say that exercise has been one of the most important parts of my own healing journey. It helped me regain strength, confidence, and trust in my body again. One message from this episode says it all: Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. Every step matters. I truly believe we're entering a new era where exercise will become as important to survivorship as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and endocrine therapy. Meet Our Guest: Dr. Jay Harness In this episode of The Breast Cancer Podcast, we're honored to welcome Dr. Jay Harness, one of the world's leading pioneers in breast surgery and Exercise Oncology. Dr. Harness is the Chief Medical Officer of Maple Tree Cancer Alliance, a Past President of the American Society of Breast Surgeons, and recipient of the 2024 National Consortium of Breast Centers Career Impact Award. Throughout his remarkable career, he has established four multidisciplinary breast cancer centers, authored more than 100 scientific publications and multiple textbooks, and dedicated his life to improving the care of patients with breast cancer. He is a co-founder and Medical Director of Breast Cancer Answers, which is a Social Media video site for breast cancer patients, family members and friends. (www.breastcanceranswers.com) He is also the founder of Cancer Fitness, which is an educational website about the nature and value of Exercise Oncology Programs. ( https://cancerfitness.org/ ) He is a founding member and a Co-Chair of the International Society of Exercise Oncology (ISEO) Communications Committee. His current focus is making “Exercise Oncology” a standard of adjunctive care for cancer patients nationally and internationally. Join us as we discuss the groundbreaking science behind exercise, the CHALLENGE Trial, and why movement may be one of the most powerful therapies available to cancer patients and survivors. 🎧 Listen now on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. If this episode inspires you, please share it with someone who could benefit. Together, we can help more survivors move from surviving to STRONG. #TheBreastCancerPodcast #ExerciseOncology #BreastCancerSurvivor #CancerSurvivorship #MovementIsMedicine #BreastCancerAwareness #CancerWellness #HealingBeyondMedicine #ExerciseIsMedicine #CancerResearch #STRONGSurvivors #FromSurvivingToSTRONG Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

This episode is deeply personal to me. As the daughter of Indian immigrants, a breast surgeon, and a breast cancer survivor, I've seen firsthand how difficult it can be for our community to talk openly about health issues—especially breast cancer. Too often, conversations are delayed by fear, stigma, modesty, or the belief that we should simply "stay strong" and endure. But when it comes to breast cancer: 💔 Silence delays screening.💔 Silence delays diagnosis.💔 Silence can cost lives. In this episode, we discuss:✔ Why breast cancer rates are rising in South Asian women✔ Why many women present at later stages✔ Common myths and misconceptions✔ Family history, genetics, and risk factors✔ Screening recommendations✔ The importance of early detection✔ How families can better support loved ones facing breast cancer Most importantly, we talk about breaking the silence. Because talking about breast cancer is not something to fear—it is an act of courage. 💛 Seeking care is not selfish.💛 Getting screened is not overreacting.💛 Asking questions is not shameful. Every conversation we have today may help save a life tomorrow. If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a mother, sister, daughter, aunt, cousin, friend, or colleague. Let's start the conversations our community can no longer afford to whisper about. Dr. Kavya Krishna is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine. She is a wonderful physician who is kind, compassionate and empathetic with her patients. Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

💛 The Silent Heart Crisis in South Asians This episode of The Breast Cancer Podcast is deeply personal to me. I am grateful that Dr. Mubin Syed joined me on this podcast to share his expertise and knowledge on Cardiovascular Disease in South Asians. I lost my mom to complications of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. And looking back, I often wonder: 👉 What did we miss? 👉 What did we not know sooner? That’s why I wanted to have this conversation. In this episode, we discuss an important reality that many people still don’t realize: ⚠️ South Asians are at higher risk for heart disease and diabetes—often at younger ages and even at “normal” body weights. We talk about: ✔️ Why cardiovascular disease happens earlier in South Asians ✔️ What “skinny fat” really means ✔️ Why normal BMI and labs can sometimes be misleading ✔️ Genetics, lifestyle, and cultural factors ✔️ The intersection between breast cancer survivorship and heart health ✔️ Most importantly—what we can actually do to reduce risk One of the most important takeaways: 👉 You can look healthy on the outside and still carry significant risk on the inside. But there is hope. Through earlier awareness, screening, lifestyle changes, and better conversations within our families and communities, we can change outcomes. I can’t change my mom’s story. But my hope is that this conversation helps someone else change theirs. Author Bio: Mubin Syed, MD, is a nationally recognized physician with 30 years experience, specializing in endovascular therapy. He is also a health historian and a medtech entrepreneur holding 28 patents. He is the author of a medical guide on pain treatment and Healing From Our History: How Colonial-Era Famines Led to a Modern South Asian Health Crisis. His mission to help South Asians improve their health led to a TEDx Talk, and features in CNN International/The Guardian, HuffPostUK, Indian Express International, The Juggernaut, and Brown History Podcast. For interviews, email: Desidoc.health@gmail.com Instagram: @desidoc.md (DM: “interview request”) Website: www.desidocmd.com/ Healing From Our History by Dr. Mubin Syed is available now! https://store.bookbaby.com/book/healing-from-our-historyhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F4MBFFK3 Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

Breast cancer in young women is rising—and many are left with more questions than answers. In this episode, we break down: ✔️ Why breast cancer happens in younger women ✔️ What symptoms you should never ignore ✔️ Genetics, fertility, and treatment decisions ✔️ The truth behind common myths And most importantly— 💛 You did nothing wrong. You are not alone. This conversation is about education, empowerment, and hope—for patients, survivors, and anyone who wants to understand. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs this. #BreastCancerAwareness #YoungBreastCancer #WomensHealth #BreastSurgery #CancerSurvivor #PatientEducation #KnowYourBody #EarlyDetection #TheBreastCancerPodcast Dr. Kavya Krishna is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine. She is a wonderful physician who is kind, compassionate and empathetic with her patients. Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

March is Women’s History Month, and today’s episode is more than medicine… It’s a story of science, courage, and the voices of women who changed everything. For decades, women were told that survival required sacrifice — not just of the breast… but of identity. Radical surgeries. Permanent disability. No questions asked. But something powerful happened. 💡 Science evolved. 💬 Patients began to speak up. 👩‍⚕️ Women entered medicine. And everything changed. Today, breast cancer surgery is no longer about doing more — it’s about doing what’s necessary… and nothing more. In this episode, I walk you through: ✨ How we moved from disfiguring surgeries to precision care ✨ The trials that proved less can be just as effective ✨ Why quality of life is now part of the conversation ✨ And how patient voices reshaped modern medicine As a breast surgeon and a survivor, this journey is deeply personal to me. Because today, we don’t just treat cancer. We treat the person. 💭 And when we combine evidence with compassion… that is when healing truly happens. 🎧 Listen now on The Breast Cancer Podcast #TheBreastCancerPodcast #WomensHistoryMonth #BreastCancerAwareness #BreastSurgery #Oncology #PatientEducation #WomenInMedicine #CancerSurvivor #HealthEquity #MedicalEducation #BreastCancerCare #EvidenceBasedMedicine #WomenSupportingWomen #WeRiseTogether Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Amy Comander on The Breast Cancer Podcast 💕 Dr. Comander is a medical oncologist, survivor advocate, and the author of her powerful new book, Paving Your Path Through Breast Cancer And Beyond. Evidence-Based Lifestyle Medicine Tools for Cancer Survivorship. In this episode, we talk about: ✨ Navigating breast cancer one step at a time ✨ Practical tools for survivorship—body, mind, and soul ✨ How patients can feel empowered (not overwhelmed) through treatment and beyond ✨ Why survivorship deserves just as much attention as diagnosis and treatment As a breast surgeon and a survivor myself, I deeply value conversations like this—ones that meet patients where they are and remind them that they are not alone on this journey. Amy Comander, MD, DipABLM, FACLM, MSCP is a breast oncologist and Medical Director of the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute in Waltham, Director of the Lifestyle Medicine Program at the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute, and an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. As a breast oncologist, Dr. Comander has witnessed the struggles her patients face during and following completion of primary cancer treatment, and she is passionate about improving the overall health and well-being of breast cancer survivors through lifestyle interventions. In 2019, she launched the PAVING the Path to Wellness Program lifestyle medicine program for breast cancer survivors. She mentors other colleagues to run PAVING groups, so that this transformational experience can be offered to a larger group of cancer survivors. She has co-authored "PAVING Your Path Through Breast Cancer and Beyond," "PAVING the Path to Wellness Manual and Workbook," and "PAVING a Path Through Menopause and Beyond." Driven to integrate lifestyle medicine in cancer care, Dr. Comander is honored to be the first oncologist awarded Fellow status by the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Her Books: also available on Amazon! PAVING Your Path Through Breast Cancer and Beyond PAVING the Path to Wellness Manual & Workbook (Second Edition) Social media: @DrAmyComander on Instagram Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

As we begin new year, here is your reminder: Survivorship is active, not passive. What began as a friendship grew into a shared mission—to care for, educate, and advocate for those facing breast cancer. Thanks Friendship Podcast for inviting us for this empowering conversation. In this episode, Dr. Shabana Dewani and I talk honestly about breast cancer from both sides of the table—as physicians and as humans who walk closely with survivors every day. We are both passionate about: movement and strength training- which rebuilds muscle lost during treatment, improves bone density and reduces fracture risk, lowers fatigue, improves energy, supports metabolic health and reduces risk of recurrence. We discuss prevention, recovery, survivorship, and the often unspoken emotional journey that continues long after treatment ends. This isn’t just about medicine. It’s about connection, trust, hope, and walking alongside patients with compassion and purpose. We are both grateful to have conversations that elevate awareness and strengthen our community. Dr. Shabana Dewani is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine—and a joy to listen to! She breaks down the oncology process and important factors when deciding treatment. You'll be able to hear her passion for helping others ensuring they get the best treatment possible. Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

We Rise Together: An Evening of Education, Empowerment and Elegance Sponsored by “The Breast Cancer Podcast” and “Ish and Savi Foundation” In person event in Columbus, OH, USA on Nov 15 th , 2025 Expert Panel 2: Thriving Beyond Breast Cancer: Whole Person Wellness 1. Mental Health: “Mind Over Cancer” Amy Durtschi 2. Sexual Health: “Survivorship is SEXY- let’s talk about it.” Jodi Gibbs 3. Physical therapy: “Stretch, Strengthen, Thrive: Physical Therapy After Breast Cancer.” Angela Kidd 4. Gyn Oncologist: “Your Post-Cancer Screening Roadmap: More Than Mammograms” Dr. Amy Harper Speed Dating with the Experts: Moderator- Dr. Mark Cripe (Breast and Melanoma Surgeon) Experts: 1. Amy Durtschi, LPCC-S, PhD-Mental Health Expert 2. Jodi Gibbs, MPAS, PA-C- Expert in Sexual Health 3. Angela Kidd, PT, DPT, CLT, LANA- Physical Therapist 4. Dr. Amy Harper, Gynecology Oncologist Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

We Rise Together: An Evening of Education, Empowerment and Elegance Sponsored by “The Breast Cancer Podcast” and “Ish and Savi Foundation” In person event in Columbus, OH, USA on Nov 15 th , 2025 Expert Panel 1: Advances in After Breast Cancer Care 1. Breast Surgery: - Follow-Up After Breast Cancer: To Scan or Not to Scan?” Dr. Mark Cripe 2. Plastic surgery: “Optimizing outcomes after reconstruction, latest advances in 2025.” Dr. Nirvana Saraswat 3. Medical Oncology: “The Next Chapter: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, After Breast Cancer.” Dr. Shabana Dewani 4. Radiation Oncology: “Radiation Complete… Now What? Your Follow-Up Roadmap” Dr. Vijay Kudithipudi Speed Dating with the Experts: Moderator- Dr. Mark Cripe (Breast and Melanoma Surgeon) Experts: 1. Dr. Shabana Dewani- Medical Oncologist 2. Dr. Nirvana Saraswat- Plastic and Reconstructive Microsurgeon 3. Dr. Vijay Kudithipudi- Radiation Oncologist 4. Dr. Tyler Sbrocchi- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon 5. Dr. Santosh Kale- Plastic and Reconstructive Microsurgeon Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

It was truly an honor to join Kimyung Kim on Your Won Life . Our conversation went far beyond the surface — we explored purpose, resilience, healing, and what it truly means to rise after life’s hardest moments. His thoughtful questions and genuine curiosity created space for a meaningful dialogue that reflects both my journey as a surgeon and my experiences as a survivor. I left the conversation feeling grateful, inspired, and reminded of why sharing our stories matters so deeply. Connect with Kimyung Kim Linktree: https://linktr.ee/yourwonlifepodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourwonlifepodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimyungkim/ Check out his Podcast on your podcast platform: Your Won Life We discussed : 1) Detection & Screening of breast cancer Know your body and symptoms Monthly breast self-exam Under 40: clinical exam every 3 years Age 40+: annual mammograms Family history: start 10 years earlier than relative’s diagnosis 2) 5 Prevention Pillars Strength training 3x/week + cardio Max 2 alcoholic drinks/week 7–8 hours sleep + morning sunlight Stay socially connected Follow screening guidelines 3) Diet Mediterranean diet 4) Genetics: Test if you have family history Talk openly about family cancer history 5) Patient Rights It’s OK to question or seek a second opinion Switch doctors if dismissed Keep all records 6) Supporting Someone With Cancer Do: Listen, help with meals/childcare/cleaning, stay present Don’t: Share death stories, minimize, or say “I know how you feel” 7) Key Points 50% of cancer s are preventable Early detection saves lives You are the CEO of your health Focus on what’s in front of you now Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

🎀 New Episode Alert! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — and it’s time to separate myth from medicine. From mammograms to lifestyle choices, let’s break down what’s true, what’s not, and what every woman (and man) needs to know to protect their health. 🎧 Listen to The Breast Cancer Podcast: “Behind the Myths: What Science Really Says About Breast Cancer”— streaming now wherever you get your podcasts. #TheBreastCancerPodcast #BreastCancerAwareness #MythBusting #Survivorship #EducationIsEmpowerment #WeRiseTogether Dr. Shabana Dewani is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine—and a joy to listen to! She breaks down the oncology process and important factors when deciding treatment. You'll be able to hear her passion for helping others ensuring they get the best treatment possible. Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

🎗 September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 🎗 Did you know breast and ovarian cancers can be connected? In this powerful episode of The Breast Cancer Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Kelli Rath, a leading Gynecologic Oncologist, to talk about: 💡 How breast and ovarian cancer risks overlap 🧬 The importance of BRCA and Lynch genetic testing 🩺 Screening & prevention strategies for high-risk women 🌸 Long-term care for survivors This conversation is packed with life-saving insights — for survivors, previvors, and anyone with a strong family history. ✨ Because education is empowerment — and together, we rise. ✨ Hashtags: #OvarianCancerAwareness #BreastCancerPodcast #WeRiseTogether #GeneticsAndCancer #BRCA #LynchSyndrome #CancerPrevention #Survivorship #WomensHealth #EducationIsEmpowerment To Contact Dr. Kelli Rath: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-rath-3a1397311/ Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

Joining me is Dr. Kelli Rath, a gynecologic oncologist, and together we’ll explore the global landscape of women’s cancers—from cervical and ovarian to breast. We’ll talk disparities, prevention, HPV, and how geography still too often predicts survival. 1. What is the Cancer Atlas and why is it important for women’s health? 2. The Cancer Atlas shows that nearly half of all cancer deaths are linked to preventable factors. 3. What are the most concerning modifiable risk factors for women’s cancers today? 4. The Atlas talks about rising cancer rates in low- and middle-income countries. Why is that happening, and what are the consequences for women? 5. From your perspective as a gyn oncologist, what do we need more of—globally and locally—to address this rising burden? 6. How do stories and survivors give life to the data in the Cancer Atlas? To Contact Dr. Kelli Rath: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-rath-3a1397311/ Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

Rib-sparing DIEP flap refers to a technique used during Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction surgery where the surgeon preserves the rib and surrounding muscle when accessing the blood vessels that supply the flap. Quick Breakdown: • DIEP Flap Reconstruction: • Uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen to create a new breast after mastectomy. • Preserves the abdominal muscles (unlike TRAM flap). • Requires connection of the flap’s blood vessels (deep inferior epigastric vessels) to chest vessels, usually the internal mammary vessels (IMVs). • Traditional DIEP: • Often involves removal of a portion of rib cartilage (typically the 2nd or 3rd rib) to reach the internal mammary vessels for microsurgical connection. • This can lead to post-op pain, risk of chest wall weakness, or delayed healing. • Rib-Sparing Technique: • Avoids rib removal by carefully dissecting around the rib or using intercostal spaces. • Benefits: • Less post-op pain. • Preserved chest wall integrity. • Potentially quicker recovery. • More cosmetic outcome (less chance of chest wall contour deformity). Clinical Note: • Rib-sparing is technically more challenging and requires a skilled microsurgeon. • Not all patients are candidates; it depends on anatomy, vessel quality, and other surgical considerations. Connect with Midwest Breast on Instagram: Instagram: Instagram: @MWBreast Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

🎧 this episode of The Breast Cancer Podcast, Dr. Mark Cripe and I explore what science tells us about reducing the risk of breast cancer—and what that means for you. From nutrition, social connections and physical activity to alcohol use, sleep, early morning sunlight and early detection, we break down practical, evidence-based steps that can help you feel more empowered in your breast health journey. Whether you’re a survivor, a previvor, or simply seeking clarity, this conversation is a reminder that knowledge is power—and action is strength. 🌸 Empower yourself to live a rich, meaningful life. #TheBreastCancerPodcast #BreastCancerAwareness #PreventionMatters #SurvivorStrong#highrisk#non-surgicalriskreduction Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

On this Mother's dray, we honor the heart of every mother — the love she gives, the sacrifices she makes, and the quiet strength she carries every single day. But today, we also pause to ask: how can mothers take care of themselves? How can faith and medicine guide them to nurture not just others, but their own beautiful, essential selves? Whether you are a mother, lost a mother, hope to be one, or are simply someone who has been touched by the love of a mother, this episode is for you. Together, let’s explore what it means to mother others — and to mother ourselves — through the lens of both faith and wellness. Please join my two special guests on the podcast: Dr. Shabana Dewani is board certified in Medical Oncology, Hematology, and Internal Medicine—and a joy to listen to! You'll be able to hear her passion for how takes care of herself and advocates for other mothers. Pastor Jennifer Jackson offers faith perspective and self care for women. She provides us her learnings as she went through her own breast cancer diagnosis. She strives to help women through life, whether it's a book, her own radio show, or by mentoring them. You'll be uplifted by our discussion with Jennifer she talks about what faith says about women taking care of themselves. Learn More About Jennifer Jackson here . Instagram Facebook If you want to buy my book, click the link below. Their Legacy, Their Light She Carries: A Breast Surgeon’s Mission to Serve and Inspire Hope Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

Please join myself and Dr. Tiwari as we discuss "How to get optimized for breast surgery" with Dr. Knackstedt, who is a plastic surgeon as well as a functional medicine specialist. 1. What does it mean to be truly “optimized” for breast surgery—both physically and emotionally? 2. What are some of the most important things patients can do in the weeks leading up to surgery to support healing and recovery? 3. How does nutrition play a role in surgical recovery, and are there specific supplements or foods you recommend—or avoid? 4. Do you integrate any alternative or complementary therapies, like acupuncture or stress reduction techniques, into the surgical prep or recovery process? 5. What lab markers or health parameters do you check or optimize before surgery (e.g., inflammation, blood sugar, hormones)? 6. How can patients advocate for themselves when they feel like their concerns—especially around whole-body wellness—aren’t being heard? 9. What common myths or misconceptions do patients have about breast reconstruction that you’d like to clear up? Post-Surgery Support 10. What are some of the most under-discussed aspects of post-op recovery that you think patients should know about? 11. Are there any red flags during recovery that patients should watch for and not ignore? 12. What long-term lifestyle practices support optimal outcomes after reconstruction? Dr. Tiwari of Midwest Breast and Aesthetic Surgery has teamed up with Breast Cancer Surgeon and Breast Cancer Survivor, Dr. Deepa Halaharvi to bring you this new educational series. Connect with Midwest Breast on Instagram: Instagram: Instagram: @MWBreast Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD, is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction, microsurgery, and gender-affirmation surgery. Dr. Knackstedt is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a certified functional medicine practitioner. She incorporates her functional medicine expertise into her surgical practice, helping patients initiate lifestyle-based interventions before surgery to improve outcomes, minimize pain, and optimize recovery. Dr. Knackstedt received her degrees at the Medical University of South Carolina in 2015 and completed her medical residency at Cleveland Clinic. In addition to her medical practice, Dr. Knackstedt is an assistant professor of plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as the assistant program director for the plastic surgery residency affiliated with Duke University Medical Center and Duke Raleigh Hospital. Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@surgical_recovery Instagram: @surgical_recovery Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

Welcome to cutting-edge approach to Breast Reconstruction: "The Nerve Sparing DIEP flap" A "Nerve sparing DIEP flap" refers to a surgical technique used in breast reconstruction where the surgeon carefully dissects and preserves the nerves that supply the rectus abdominis muscle when harvesting tissue from the lower abdomen using the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap, minimizing potential complications like abdominal weakness or bulging at the donor site by avoiding damage to these motor nerves; essentially, it prioritizes preserving the function of the abdominal muscles while taking the necessary tissue for breast reconstruction. Key points about nerve sparing DIEP flap: •Muscle preservation: Unlike older techniques like the TRAM flap, a DIEP flap aims to completely spare the rectus abdominis muscle, only taking the skin, fat, and blood vessels supplied by the perforating vessels from the deep inferior epigastric artery. •Nerve identification: During surgery, the surgeon carefully identifies and dissects around the nerves that innervate the rectus muscle to minimize their damage. •Benefits: By preserving the nerves, a nerve-sparing DIEP flap can help maintain abdominal wall strength, reduce the risk of hernias, and improve post-operative function and body contour. Connect with Midwest Breast on Instagram: Instagram: Instagram: @MWBreast Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast

In this episode, Dr. Mark Cripe and I are joined by Dr. Kevin Hughes, the Director of Cancer Genetics at the Hollings Cancer Center and the McKoy Rose, Jr., M.D. Endowed Chair in Surgical Oncology in the College of Medicine at MUSC. Dr Hughes is recognized nationally and internationally for his expertise in breast cancer, breast disease management, genetic testing and the identification and management of patients with hereditary breast cancer risk. His research focuses on developing tools that make cancer genetic testing simple, safe, and efficient. https://hollingscancercenter.musc.edu/patient-care/genetic-counseling-and-hereditary-cancer/hereditary-cancer-clinic https://web.musc.edu/inourdnasc You will learn: 1. What is the definition of “High Risk”? 2. What are some risk factors for high risk? 3. Discuss the different risk calculators? Will AI replace these models? 4. How do you counsel woman at high risk? 5. Understanding many obstacles in seeing and counseling patients (socioeconomic, access to quality care, etc) do you think that we can use AI to help us? 6. How does having a high risk (Hereditary cancer clinic) like the one you have benefit hospital systems? 7. Million-dollar question? Will AI replace physicians and surgeonsJ? Stay Connected with Dr. Deepa Halaharvi: TikTok: @breastdoctor Instagram: @drdhalaharvi TBCP Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast Website: https://drdeepahalaharvi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@deepahalaharvi5917 Instagram: @thebreastcancerpodcast