Conversations in Lung Cancer Research

Thoracic Oncology Group Of Australasia (TOGA)

0.0 (0)
MEDICINE
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, presented by TOGA, your go-to podcast for in-depth insights into lung cancer. Tune in for conversations with leading experts, inspiring stories, and the latest updates on clinical trials. Stay informed and empowered in the fight against lung cancer.

FEB 12

Dr. Megan Sanders: From Science to TOGA Leadership

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Mel Moore interviews Dr. Megan Sanders, the Chief Executive Officer of TOGA. They discuss Megan's journey from working in vaccine formulation to earning a PhD in immunology, working in clinical trials, and eventually leading TOGA. They explore the challenges and achievements of TOGA, the importance of multidisciplinary engagement in lung cancer treatment, and the organisation's strategic plan for strengthening research and membership engagement. The conversation touches on the potential of clinical quality registries to improve patient care and highlights the ongoing effort to address the gaps in funding and equitable care for lung cancer patients. (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (00:36) Meet Dr. Megan Sanders: From Science to Leadership (01:21) Journey from Academia to Clinical Trials (05:27) Challenges and Rewards in Clinical Trials (09:24) TOGA's Achievements and Multidisciplinary Approach (26:39) Future Directions and Strategic Plans (36:55) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: Dr Megan Sanders https://www.linkedin.com/in/megan-sanders-20130156/ TOGA Strategic Plan: https://thoraciconcology.org.au/news/toga/toga-launches-new-strategic-plan-2025-2028-to-advance-thoracic-cancer-research-in-australasia/ TOGA ASM 2026:https://thoraciconcology.org.au/events/toga-annual-scientific-meeting-2026/

38 min
JAN 29

Lung Cancer Research: 2025 Year in Review

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' hosted by Associate Professor Mal Itchens, a multidisciplinary panel delves into the ongoing advancements in lung cancer research in Australia and New Zealand. The panel includes Professor Nick Pavlakis from Royal North Shore Hospital and Associate Professor Lauren Troy from Royal Prince Alfred Sydney. Key topics discussed include the 2025 lung cancer screening program, anticipated pharmaceutical benefits scheme (PBS) drug listings for 2026, and the introduction of advanced diagnostic technologies. The conversation highlights the initial impacts of the lung cancer screening program, potential benefits of new ALK inhibitors, and the expanding role of immunotherapy. The episode also explores the future of diagnostic precision with the rise of interventional pulmonology and liquid biopsies. Additionally, it emphasises the growing importance of specialised lung cancer nursing and the integration of novel technologies in oncology practices. 00:00 Introduction to Lung Cancer Research Podcast 00:37 Panel Introduction and Discussion Overview 01:18 Lung Cancer Screening in Australia 02:30 Impact of Screening on Diagnostic Services 06:45 Screening Program Benefits and Challenges 10:34 Future of Lung Cancer Screening 15:54 Advancements in Diagnostic Technology 20:57 Therapeutic Developments in Lung Cancer 24:34 New Drug Listings and Their Impact 40:04 Immunotherapy and Future Directions 44:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

48 min
12/11/2025

New and Emerging Practice Standards in ES-SCLC

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' host Dr. Rebecca Tay and fellow oncologists A/Prof Surein Arulananda and Dr. Dasantha Jayamanne (DJ) delve into the latest advances in small cell lung cancer treatment. They explore new first-line treatments, including checkpoint inhibitors and emerging novel agents like lurbinectedin and tarlatamab, highlighting their mechanisms, survival benefits, and toxicity management. The panel also discusses the evolving role of radiotherapy and future directions involving precision medicine and biomarkers. This comprehensive discussion aims to inform clinicians and healthcare professionals about the promising advancements reshaping the small cell lung cancer treatment landscape. This episode is sponsored by Roche. TOGA's SCLC Masterclass will take place 20 March 2026, at Novotel on Collins, Melbourne An advanced workshop covering evolving standards of care and new therapies in SCLC. Early bird tickets available until 16 Feb 2026 > https://thoraciconcology.org.au/events/masterclass-small-cell-lung-cancer/ RESOURCES AND LINKS: CREST trial https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3058352/ Caspian Study https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1525730425001640 CHEST RT https://trog.com.au/trials/trog-20-01-chest-rt/ DeLLphi-303 https://www.annalsofoncology.org/article/S0923-7534(25)04288-7/fulltext IMforte https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2025.43.16_suppl.8006 Japan study PCI vs MRIhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28343976/ TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (00:36) Overview of Small Cell Lung Cancer (02:03) Current First-Line Treatments (06:59) Radiotherapy in Small Cell Lung Cancer (11:36) New Developments in Maintenance and Second-Line Treatments (15:35) Exciting New Therapies and Future Directions (24:01) Radiotherapy and Immune Engaging Therapies (32:53) Conclusion and Future Events KEYWORDS: SCLC, ES-SCLC, Small Cell Lung Cancer, Early Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer

39 min
11/27/2025

Exploring Lung Cancer Care and Research in New Zealand

his episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research' hosted by Dr Alex Davis, features a discussion with Dr. Laird Cameron and Dr. Annie Wong on the current state of lung cancer care and research in New Zealand. The panel explores the challenges and disparities faced by thoracic cancer patients, particularly among the indigenous Māori population. The conversation highlights the differences between patient populations in New Zealand and Australia, the impact of rurality on cancer care, the importance of clinical trials and multinational collaborations, and the future prospects for lung cancer treatments and interventions. (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (01:01) Exploring Lung Cancer in New Zealand (01:13) Meet the Experts: Dr. Laird Cameron and Dr. Annie Wong (01:48) Challenges in Lung Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment (02:44) Specialisation Stories: Why Lung Cancer? (05:20) Comparing Patient Populations: New Zealand vs. Australia (07:44) Lung Cancer Care Pathways in New Zealand (09:17) Access to Treatments and Therapies (14:57) The Role of Lung Cancer Nurses (18:21) Rural Challenges in Lung Cancer Care (22:06) Radiology and Diagnostic Delays (23:08) CTDNA and Liquid Biopsy in New Zealand (25:03) Strengths and Weaknesses in Lung Cancer Care (29:29) The Impact of Clinical Trials and TOGA (33:00) Future Interventions and Wishlists (39:33) Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

40 min
10/02/2025

Challenging Ageism: Optimising Lung Cancer Treatment in Older Adults

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, hosted by Dr Michael Krasovitsky, a medical oncologist at St. Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, the focus is on lung cancer in older adults. The distinction and application of geriatric oncology are explored through comprehensive discussions with experts: A/Prof Christopher Steer, Prof Shalini Vinod, and Ms Nicole Webb. The conversation delves into the importance of geriatric assessments, the unique challenges faced by older patients undergoing cancer treatment, the impact of ageism, and the necessity of tailored, supportive care. Practical tools and approaches for assessing frailty, treatment decision making, and addressing the stigma surrounding lung cancer and aging are also detailed. The episode underscores the critical need for an open, compassionate, and holistic approach to cancer care in older populations. (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (00:58) Meet the Experts (02:01) Understanding Geriatric Oncology (03:22) Challenges in Clinical Trials for Older Adults (06:53) Geriatric Assessment Tools (10:47) Frailty and Treatment Decisions (14:21)Quality of Life Considerations (17:51) Systemic Therapy Considerations (24:15) Radiotherapy in Older Adults (29:21) Support Systems and Practical Considerations (34:56) Addressing Ageism in Cancer Care (46:19) Stigma and Lung Cancer (49:28) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

51 min
09/18/2025

Prof. Anna Nowak: A Journey from Oncology Lab to Leadership

In this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, host A/Prof Mel Moore interviews Prof Anna Nowak, a renowned medical oncologist, clinical trialist, and tumour immunology researcher. We learn of Anna's early aspirations influenced by her family and mentors, her educational and professional trajectory, and her transition to a leadership role as Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Western Australia. Anna shares insights on the challenges and rewards of juggling clinical practice with research, her contributions to mesothelioma studies, involvement in the DREAM and DREAMER trials, and her role in mentoring the next generation of oncologists. (00:00) Welcome and Acknowledgements (00:34) Introducing Professor Anna Nowak (01:50) Anna's Journey into Medicine (03:18) Transition to Oncology and Research (05:05) PhD and Early Research Experiences (09:15) Clinical Trials and Mesothelioma Focus (24:58) Leadership and Academic Roles (31:48) Mentorship and Future Aspirations (32:39) Conclusion and Farewell

34 min
09/04/2025

CNS Progression in Lung Cancer: A Practical Conversation on Best Practices

n this episode of Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, A/Prof Tim Clay discusses the multidisciplinary management of CNS metastases in the context of thoracic cancers. Joined by Dr. Keryn Davidson, a consultant neurosurgeon, and A/Prof Fiona Hegi Johnson, a radiation oncologist, the discussion focuses on the nuances of treating patients with non-small cell lung cancer presenting with brain metastases. Key topics include the role of neurosurgery, decision-making for radiation therapy, evolving approaches for oncogene-driven cancer patients, management of radiation necrosis, and the complexities of treating small cell lung cancer and leptomeningeal disease. This episode is sponsored by Pfizer. (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (00:35) Meet the Experts (01:44) Neurosurgery in CNS Metastases (07:00) Radiation Therapy Insights (13:59) Oncogene-Driven Lung Cancer (25:14) Challenges in Small Cell Lung Cancer (29:56) Advanced Treatment Strategies (32:23) Future Directions and Conclusion

36 min
08/14/2025

A/Prof Fiona Hegi Johnson: Navigating Careers and Innovations in Lung Cancer Research

In this episode of 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research,' A/Prof Mel Moore sits down with A/Prof Fiona Hegi Johnson, a radiation oncologist at the Peter McCallum Cancer Center and senior research fellow at the University of Melbourne. Fiona shares her journey into radiation oncology, highlighting her career progression, the impact of serendipity, and the importance of mentors. They discuss technological advancements in the field, the role of multidisciplinary teams, changes in lung cancer treatments, and clinical challenges. Fiona offers insights into balancing clinical work with research and provides advice for early-career professionals in the field. (00:00) Introduction and Acknowledgements (00:32) Guest Introduction: Associate Professor Fiona Hegi Johnson (01:33) Fiona's Career Journey and Early Challenges (04:08) Choosing Radiation Oncology (06:04) Balancing Clinical and Academic Roles (09:46) Challenges in Radiation Oncology Research (13:45) Technological Advances in Lung Cancer Treatment (17:22) Multidisciplinary Team Dynamics (23:03) Fiona's Role in TROG and Mentorship (28:32) Advice for Early Career Professionals (30:02) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

31 min

TRAILER

Introducing Conversations in Lung Cancer Research - Trailer

In this introductory episode, Associate Professor Mel Moore, medical oncologist and education chair at TOGA, announces the evolution of TOGA podcasts to 'Conversations in Lung Cancer Research.' The podcast will continue to deliver the latest breakthroughs in lung cancer research while expanding to include deeper dives and engaging discussions with experts in thoracic oncology. Listeners can look forward to unique insights from researchers, clinicians, and key thought leaders shaping the future of lung cancer care.

02/04/2025

•

2 min

Welcome to Conversations in Lung Cancer Research, presented by TOGA, your go-to podcast for in-depth insights into lung cancer. Tune in for conversations with leading experts, inspiring stories, and the latest updates on clinical trials. Stay informed and empowered in the fight against lung cancer.

Creator

Thoracic Oncology Group Of Australasia (TOGA)
Years Active

2020 - 2026
Episodes

63
Rating

Clean
Copyright

Thoracic Oncology Group Of Australasia © 2020. All rights reserved.
Show Website

Conversations in Lung Cancer Research