Welcome to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for cancer care insights, treatment updates, and patient-centered education. Hosted by the team at Onco Life Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this podcast is designed to guide patients, caregivers, and listeners through every stage of the cancer journey. Each episode features expert advice from our oncologists, wellness tips, treatment innovations, and answers to the most common questions about cancer types, therapies, and recovery. 🎧 Em ...
…
continue reading
DR. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE Podcasts

1
How Breast Cancer’s Tumor Microenvironment Evolves During Treatment: New Insights for Personalized Therapy
12:37
12:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:37A new study reveals how breast cancer’s tumor microenvironment (TME) changes during chemotherapy, reshaping immune cells, fibroblasts, and blood vessels. These findings provide fresh insight into why some patients respond better to treatment and how future therapies can be more personalized. In this episode, you will learn: Why breast tumors act li…
…
continue reading

1
Why Cancer Drug Trials Must Include Quality of Life Measures: The Missing Piece in Patient-Centered Care
12:59
12:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:59Cancer treatments are often judged by survival rates, but how do they impact patients’ daily lives? This episode explores why quality of life (QoL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) must be included in cancer drug trials and how they change the way patients, doctors, and researchers evaluate therapies. In this episode, you’ll learn: What d…
…
continue reading

1
New Lung Cancer Treatment: IDEAYA Seeks FDA Approval for Targeted Therapy IDE892
12:01
12:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:01In this episode, we explore IDEAYA Biosciences’ request for FDA approval to begin clinical testing of IDE892, a new targeted therapy designed for patients with MTAP-deleted non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This potential breakthrough drug represents a step forward in precision cancer treatment. You’ll learn: What IDE892 is and how it works as a …
…
continue reading

1
Lasofoxifene and ER+ Breast Cancer: Breakthroughs in Bone Metastasis Therapy
15:54
15:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:54In this episode, we explore the latest advances in treating estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer, with a spotlight on lasofoxifene, a next-generation hormonal therapy showing promise for patients with advanced disease and bone metastasis. You’ll learn: Why is such a common site for ER+ breast cancer metastasis How traditional endocrine th…
…
continue reading

1
Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer: What to Expect During Treatment and Recovery
11:07
11:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:07In this episode, we break down what patients can expect from radiation therapy for breast cancer, a proven treatment that reduces the risk of recurrence and supports recovery after surgery or chemotherapy. You’ll learn: Why radiation therapy is an important part of breast cancer treatment The different types of radiation therapy, including external…
…
continue reading

1
Can an Oncologist Treat All Cancers? Understanding Cancer Specialists and Treatment Options
13:10
13:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:10In this episode, we explore the role of oncologists and why no single doctor can treat every type of cancer. Instead, different oncology specialists work together to provide patients with the most effective care and treatment plan. You’ll learn: The different types of oncologists and the cancers they focus on How medical, surgical, and radiation on…
…
continue reading

1
Autoimmune Diseases and Digestive Cancers: What a Landmark Study Reveals
13:58
13:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:58In this episode, we break down a major new study that uncovered strong links between autoimmune diseases and gastrointestinal cancers. Researchers analyzed data from 1.5 million patients and found both increased and reduced cancer risks depending on the autoimmune condition. You’ll learn: How celiac disease sharply raises the risk of small intestin…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating the First Cancer Diagnosis Discussion: Communication, Empathy, and Patient Care
16:41
16:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:41In this episode, we unpack one of the most challenging moments in oncology, delivering a first cancer diagnosis, and why communication skills are just as important as medical expertise. Clear, compassionate conversations help patients feel supported, reduce anxiety, and build trust in their care team. You’ll learn: Why transparency in sharing a can…
…
continue reading

1
N1 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: What It Means When Cancer Reaches Nearby Lymph Nodes
11:10
11:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:10In this episode, we explain what N1 prostate cancer staging means and how it affects treatment when cancer cells move from the prostate gland into nearby lymph nodes. You’ll learn: What N1 means in the TNM staging system and how it differs from metastatic prostate cancer How doctors confirm N1 status with PSA levels, imaging scans, biopsies, and ex…
…
continue reading

1
Rare Exocrine Pancreatic Tumors: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment Options
17:50
17:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:50In this episode, we take a closer look at rare exocrine pancreatic tumors, uncommon but important subtypes of pancreatic cancer that can impact diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Understanding the risks, warning signs, and available therapies can make a big difference in outcomes. You’ll learn: What rare exocrine pancreatic tumors are and how they…
…
continue reading

1
N0 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: What It Means When Cancer Hasn’t Reached the Lymph Nodes
12:16
12:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:16In this episode, we break down what N0 prostate cancer staging means and why it’s important when cancer remains confined to the prostate without spreading to nearby lymph nodes. You’ll learn: What N0 means in the TNM staging system and how it impacts treatment decisions How doctors confirm N0 staging using PSA tests, imaging, biopsies, and digital …
…
continue reading

1
M0 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: What It Means When Cancer Hasn’t Spread Beyond the Prostate
10:32
10:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:32M0 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: What It Means When Cancer Hasn’t Spread Beyond the Prostate In this episode, we break down what M0 prostate cancer staging means and why it’s an important step in understanding your treatment options when cancer hasn’t spread to distant parts of the body. You’ll learn: What M0 staging means in the TNM system an…
…
continue reading

1
M1 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: What It Means When Cancer Spreads Beyond the Prostate
10:27
10:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:27In this episode, we break down what M1 prostate cancer staging means and how it impacts treatment and daily life when cancer spreads beyond the prostate gland. You’ll learn: What “M1” means in the TNM staging system and how it differs from M0 How doctors confirm M1 status using PSA tests, imaging scans, and biopsies Why treatment shifts from locali…
…
continue reading

1
What to Expect After Colorectal Cancer Surgery: Recovery, Diet, and Healing Tips
17:32
17:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:32In this episode, we explore what life looks like after colorectal cancer surgery and how patients can best prepare for recovery. From managing bowel changes to adjusting your diet and activity level, knowing what to expect can make the healing process smoother. You’ll learn: How long recovery typically takes and what activities to avoid Dietary adj…
…
continue reading

1
T4 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and What to Expect
12:34
12:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:34In this episode, we break down what T4 prostate cancer staging means and why it matters for patients and families. At this advanced stage, cancer has grown beyond the prostate and into nearby tissues such as the bladder, rectum, or pelvic wall. Understanding this stage helps guide treatment choices and set realistic expectations. You’ll learn: What…
…
continue reading

1
T3 Prostate Cancer Staging: Understanding Stage 3, Treatment Options, and Next Steps
13:49
13:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:49In this episode, we break down what T3 prostate cancer staging means and how it changes your treatment options. At this stage, cancer has grown beyond the prostate gland into nearby tissues, but it has not yet spread to distant lymph nodes or organs. You’ll learn: What T3 prostate cancer staging means and how it’s diagnosed The differences between …
…
continue reading

1
T2 Prostate Cancer Staging: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and What It Means for You
16:52
16:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:52In this episode, we explain T2 prostate cancer staging and what it means when a tumor is still inside the prostate but large enough to be seen on scans or felt during an exam. Understanding this stage is key to making informed decisions about monitoring and treatment. You’ll learn: The differences between T2a, T2b, and T2c prostate cancer and how e…
…
continue reading

1
T1 Prostate Cancer Staging Explained: Early Detection, Treatment Options, and What to Expect
13:03
13:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:03In this episode, we break down what T1 prostate cancer staging means and why catching it early can make such a big difference. T1 prostate cancer is very small, stays inside the prostate, and usually doesn’t show up on scans or exams. It’s most often discovered through PSA testing and biopsy. You’ll learn: What T1 prostate cancer staging is and how…
…
continue reading

1
How Immunotherapy is Transforming Lung Cancer Treatment: Hope, Benefits, and What to Expect
10:48
10:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:48In this episode, we explore how immunotherapy is revolutionizing lung cancer treatment and giving patients new hope. Unlike chemotherapy and radiation, immunotherapy trains your immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, often with fewer side effects and longer-lasting results. You’ll learn: What makes immunotherapy different from traditio…
…
continue reading

1
What Are the Three Types of Oncology? A Simple Guide to Cancer Care Specialists
10:23
10:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:23In this episode, we break down the three main types of oncology and how each plays a vital role in cancer care. Understanding these specialties can help you feel more confident in making treatment decisions and building the right care team. You’ll learn: What oncology is and why it’s central to cancer treatment The role of medical oncology in syste…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating Cancer Diagnosis Conversations: Essential Communication Strategies for Oncology Fellows
12:57
12:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:57In this episode, we explore how oncology fellows can better manage the complex, emotionally charged conversations that come with delivering an initial cancer diagnosis. These early discussions set the foundation for trust, patient understanding, and long-term engagement with treatment. You’ll learn: Why the initial consultation is critical for pati…
…
continue reading

1
FDA Approves Zongertinib (Hernexeos): First Oral HER2-Targeted Therapy for Advanced NSCLC
17:02
17:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:02In this episode, we break down the FDA’s historic approval of zongertinib (Hernexeos), the first oral HER2-targeted therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with HER2 mutations. This milestone offers patients and clinicians a long-awaited, convenient, and effective treatment option. You’ll learn: Why have HER2-mutated NSCLC patients …
…
continue reading

1
Bone-Targeted Therapy in Prostate Cancer: How to Protect Bone Health and Reduce Fracture Risk
12:52
12:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:52In this episode, we explore how bone-targeted therapy supports men with advanced prostate cancer by protecting and strengthening bone health when cancer spreads to the skeleton. You’ll learn: What bone-targeted therapy is and how it works in prostate cancer care Why is bone health at risk during androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and bone metastasi…
…
continue reading

1
Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: A Proven Non-Surgical Treatment for Long-Term Control
12:41
12:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:41In this episode, we explore how radiation therapy helps men with prostate cancer at both early and advanced stages. This non-surgical treatment delivers powerful results, especially for high-risk patients when combined with hormone therapy. You’ll learn: How modern radiation techniques like IMRT and SBRT target prostate tumors with precision Why ra…
…
continue reading

1
Immunotherapy for Prostate Cancer: How Your Immune System Can Fight Back
15:03
15:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:03In this episode, we explore how immunotherapy is changing prostate cancer treatment by helping the body’s immune system find and attack cancer cells. This breakthrough approach gives hope to men with advanced or treatment-resistant prostate cancer. You’ll learn: What immunotherapy is and how it works to boost the immune system The role of immune ch…
…
continue reading

1
Targeted Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Precision Treatment That Protects Healthy Cells
15:33
15:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:33In this episode, we break down how targeted therapy is changing prostate cancer treatment by focusing directly on tumor cells while protecting healthy tissue. This new approach offers hope for men with advanced prostate cancer and gene changes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. You’ll learn: What targeted therapy is and how it works against prostate cancer c…
…
continue reading

1
Hormonal Therapy for Prostate Cancer in Malaysia: Treatment, Benefits, and What to Expect
12:56
12:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:56In this episode, we explore hormonal therapy as a key treatment option for prostate cancer in Malaysia. While not a cure, hormonal therapy plays a vital role in slowing cancer growth, reducing symptoms, and improving quality of life for men facing advanced prostate cancer. You’ll learn: What hormonal therapy (androgen deprivation therapy) is and ho…
…
continue reading

1
Chemotherapy for Prostate Cancer: How It Works, Benefits, and Side Effects Explained
11:17
11:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:17In this episode, we dive into chemotherapy as an important treatment option for advanced prostate cancer. While it may not cure the disease, chemotherapy helps slow cancer growth, ease symptoms, and improve quality of life for men whose cancer has spread or returned after other treatments. You’ll learn: What chemotherapy is and how it targets prost…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer: Treatments, Symptoms, and Support for Families
9:49
9:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:49In this episode, we explore what it means to face stage 4 pancreatic cancer, covering everything from treatment options to emotional support for patients and their families. You’ll learn: What stage 4 pancreatic cancer is and how it spreads Common symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, and weight loss How chemotherapy and radiation can slow the disease a…
…
continue reading

1
Surgery for Prostate Cancer: Treatment Options, Benefits, and Recovery Explained
15:24
15:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:24In this episode, we explore surgery as a trusted and effective treatment for prostate cancer—covering the different types of procedures, their benefits, and what patients can expect during recovery. Whether you’re considering surgery yourself or supporting a loved one, this guide will help you understand the process and make informed decisions. You…
…
continue reading

1
Navigating Stage 3 Pancreatic Cancer: Treatment Options, Support Tips & What to Expect
10:35
10:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:35In this episode, we dive deep into what it means to face stage 3 pancreatic cancer—a locally advanced form of the disease that hasn’t spread to distant organs but may involve nearby lymph nodes and major blood vessels. You’ll learn: What defines stage 3 pancreatic cancer, and how it’s diagnosed Why aggressive treatment can still offer hope for surg…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 2 Pancreatic Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Hope for Recovery
16:21
16:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:21In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about stage 2 pancreatic cancer, what it means, how it's diagnosed, and the latest treatment options that offer hope for recovery. You’ll learn: The difference between stage 2A and 2B pancreatic cancer How doctors diagnose cancer using imaging, blood work, and biopsy What “borderline resect…
…
continue reading

1
Breakthroughs in Immunotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer: How Personalized Treatment Boosts Survival
12:50
12:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:50In this episode, we explore how immunotherapy is changing the way pancreatic cancer is treated, especially for patients with advanced or treatment-resistant disease. You’ll learn: How immunotherapy trains your immune system to find and destroy cancer cells Why genetic markers like MSI and dMMR improve treatment success What immune checkpoint inhibi…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 1 Pancreatic Cancer: Early Detection, Treatment, and Survival Outlook
13:09
13:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:09In this episode, we explore everything you need to know about stage 1 pancreatic cancer, how it’s diagnosed, why early treatment is crucial, and what options offer the best chance for recovery. You’ll learn: What defines stage 1 pancreatic cancer, and why it more treatable The differences between stage 1A and 1B tumors How imaging and blood tests h…
…
continue reading

1
Targeted Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: Personalized Treatment That Improves Outcomes and Comfort
11:58
11:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:58In this episode, we dive into how targeted therapy is changing the way doctors treat pancreatic cancer, offering hope and a better quality of life for patients facing this challenging disease. You’ll learn: What targeted therapy is and how it differs from chemotherapy How gene mutations like BRCA1, BRCA2, and NTRK fusion influence treatment Why tar…
…
continue reading

1
Chemotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer: What to Expect and How It Helps at Every Stage
10:30
10:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:30In this episode, we break down how chemotherapy plays a critical role in treating pancreatic cancer, from early stages to advanced cases. You’ll learn: How chemotherapy works to target and kill cancer cells throughout the body When doctors use chemo before or after surgery to improve outcomes The most common drug options, including FOLFIRINOX and G…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Surgery for Pancreatic Cancer: Whipple, Distal, and Total Pancreatectomy Explained
14:56
14:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:56In this episode, we explore the critical role surgery plays in treating pancreatic cancer, especially when diagnosed early in the head, body, or tail of the pancreas. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or want to learn more, this episode breaks down what to expect before, during, and after surgery. You’ll learn: Why surgery is often the best opti…
…
continue reading

1
Radiation Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: How Modern Treatments Improve Outcomes and Ease
17:41
17:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:41Radiation therapy is a powerful tool in the fight against pancreatic cancer, especially for patients with locally advanced disease or those recovering after surgery. In this episode, we break down how radiation works, what to expect during treatment, and how it can improve both outcomes and quality of life. You’ll learn: How radiation therapy targe…
…
continue reading

1
Onco Life Centre Named Malaysia’s Top Oncology Clinic at GHAPAC 2025: A New Benchmark in Cancer Care
11:23
11:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:23In this episode, we highlight Onco Life Centre’s recognition as the top oncology clinic in Malaysia at the GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific Awards 2025. This prestigious honor celebrates their groundbreaking approach to cancer treatment, commitment to patient care, and leadership in medical innovation. You’ll learn: Why this award sets Onco Life Centre ap…
…
continue reading

1
Finding the Right Oncologist in Kuala Lumpur: Your Guide to Personalized Cancer Care
11:46
11:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:46In this episode, we dive into what you need to know when searching for an oncologist in Kuala Lumpur and how personalized care can make a difference in your cancer journey. You’ll learn: What oncologists do and how they differ from general cancer doctors The three main types of oncology: medical, radiation, and surgical Why seeing an oncologist ear…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding the Cost of Breast Cancer Treatment in Malaysia: What Every Patient Needs to Know
12:59
12:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:59In this episode, we explore the real cost of breast cancer treatment in Malaysia—what to expect, how to plan, and how to manage financial stress during your cancer journey. You’ll learn: How treatment costs vary based on cancer type, stage, and hospital choice Estimated prices for surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy, and PET scans Th…
…
continue reading

1
How Diet and Lifestyle Choices Can Lower Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer
12:37
12:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:37In this episode, we explore how simple, everyday changes to your diet and activity level can significantly reduce your risk of colorectal cancer—a common but largely preventable disease. You’ll learn: What dietary habits increase colorectal cancer risk (and what to avoid) How red and processed meats like beef and pork impact colon health Why fiber …
…
continue reading

1
How to Spot Stage 1 Lung Cancer Symptoms Early: Key Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
19:55
19:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:55In this episode, we dive into how to recognize early signs of stage 1 lung cancer—before it spreads and becomes harder to treat. You’ll learn: What stage 1 lung cancer is and why early detection matters The subtle symptoms that often go unnoticed How a persistent cough, chest pain, and breathlessness signal potential problems Why even mild discomfo…
…
continue reading

1
Exocrine Pancreatic Tumors Explained: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and Treatment Options
14:59
14:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:59In this episode, we explore the most common types of exocrine pancreatic tumors and why early awareness is critical for improving outcomes. Exocrine tumors make up the majority of pancreatic cancers, and understanding their behavior is key to catching them early and starting effective treatment. You’ll learn: What exocrine pancreatic tumors are and…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer: Treatment, Survival, and Hope in Malaysia
14:36
14:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:36In this episode, we dive deep into stage 3 colorectal cancer—what it means, how it spreads, and the treatment options available in Malaysia. You’ll learn: What stage 3 colorectal cancer is and how it's classified (3a, 3b, 3c) How the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes but not to distant organs Common treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and tar…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 4 Colorectal Cancer: Treatment Options, Support Strategies, and Real Hope at Onco Life Centre
11:04
11:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:04In this episode, we explore what it means to live with metastatic (stage 4) colorectal cancer—and how patients in Malaysia are finding personalized treatment and renewed hope at Onco Life Centre. You’ll learn: What stage 4 colorectal cancer is and how it spreads The most common areas cancer spreads to, and why that matters for treatment Key treatme…
…
continue reading

1
Stage 1 and 2 NSCLC Lung Cancer: Early Detection, Treatment Options & Recovery Insights
10:22
10:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:22In this episode, we explore everything you need to know about Stage 1 and 2 NSCLC lung cancer—the most common type of lung cancer—focusing on early detection, treatment approaches, and what patients can expect during recovery. You’ll learn: The key differences between Stage 1 and Stage 2 NSCLC lung cancer Why early-stage diagnosis dramatically impr…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage III NSCLC Lung Cancer: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and What to Expect
16:28
16:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
16:28In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about Stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)—a critical stage where cancer has spread within the chest but not beyond. You’ll learn: What Stage III NSCLC means and how it differs from earlier stages The key differences between Stage IIIA and Stage IIIB How lung cancer spreads and affe…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 4 NSCLC: How to Manage Advanced Lung Cancer With Confidence and Care
13:04
13:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:04In this episode, we dive into what it means to be diagnosed with Stage 4 NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) and how today’s advanced treatments are helping patients live longer and better. You’ll learn: What makes NSCLC “metastatic” or Stage 4, and how it spreads to organs like the brain, bones, and liver How doctors use CT, PET, and MRI scans to c…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer: Early Detection, Simple Treatment, and Long-Term Health
13:14
13:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:14In this episode, we explain what Stage 0 colorectal cancer is and why catching it early can make all the difference. At this earliest stage, cancer cells are confined to the innermost layer of the colon or rectum. They can often be treated with a single, minimally invasive procedure—no chemotherapy or primary surgery required. You’ll learn: What “c…
…
continue reading