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The Cancer Risks You Can Actually Control | Screening, Genetics & the Future of Treatment (Episode 18)
The Cancer Risks You Can Actually Control | Screening, Genetics & the Future of Treatment (Episode 18)
Nov 6, 2026
31:54
Welcome to the Second Opinion Podcast, powered by Rite Care — where we cut through the noise to bring you clear, expert-driven insights from leading professionals in medicine and health.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Moshe Ornstein, MD, MA, a genitourinary medical oncologist at Cleveland Clinic, for a wide-ranging conversation about cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and how dramatically cancer care has changed in recent years.What actually increases your risk of developing cancer? Which factors are within your control? What screenings should you be discussing with your doctor? And how are newer treatments allowing some patients to avoid traditional chemotherapy altogether?Together, we discuss:How a medical oncologist fits into the cancer care teamThe difference between modifiable and non-modifiable cancer risk factorsHow smoking, obesity, and alcohol can impact cancer riskWhy cancer screening matters — even when you feel completely healthyScreening for prostate, breast, lung, and colorectal cancersWhen family history and genetics should raise concernBRCA mutations and their relevance within the Ashkenazi Jewish communityHow genetic testing can influence cancer prevention and treatmentFertility preservation before and during cancer treatmentWhy fertility should be discussed early, particularly with younger patientsHow targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and hormonal treatments are changing cancer careWhy chemotherapy is no longer the only option for many cancersThe importance of getting medical guidance rather than relying on unverified treatmentsJewish law and the unique halachic questions that can arise throughout the cancer journeyDr. Ornstein also discusses his work surrounding Cancer and Halakha and the many questions that can arise at the intersection of modern cancer treatment, fertility, end-of-life care, and Jewish law.Whether you're interested in reducing your own cancer risk, understanding what screenings may matter for you and your family, or simply want to understand how modern oncology is evolving, this episode provides a fascinating look at prevention, early detection, and the future of cancer treatment.Contact InformationDr. Moshe Ornstein, MD, MACleveland Clinic — Taussig Cancer CenterGenitourinary Medical OncologyPhone: 216-444-6601SponsorsRite Care — At home, a call away. (732) 292-5665