The Onco Life Podcast

DR. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

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. 🎧 Empowering you with knowledge, support, and compassionate care—every step of the way. 📍 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 🌐 Learn more at oncolifecentre.com

  1. 5D AGO

    Cranial Nerve Symptoms in Nasopharyngeal Cancer: What You Need to Know About Early Warning Signs

    In this episode, we break down cranial nerve symptoms in nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) and explain why early detection is critical. Understanding the warning signs can help patients seek timely treatment, reduce nerve damage, and improve survival and quality of life. You’ll learn: What nasopharyngeal cancer is and how it affects the nasal cavity and nearby nerves Which cranial nerves are commonly involved in advanced NPC Key symptoms like hearing loss, facial pain, numbness, and double vision Other red flags include drooping eyelids, nasal congestion, nosebleeds, and sore throat Major risk factors such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), family history, and high-salt diets How treatments like IMRT, chemotherapy, surgery, and supportive care improve outcomesWhen a tumor presses on cranial nerves that control facial muscles, sensation, eye movement, or hearing, symptoms can appear quickly. One-sided hearing loss, facial weakness, or persistent nasal changes should never be ignored. This episode helps patients and families understand the connection between cranial nerve symptoms and nasopharyngeal cancer, and why early evaluation at a cancer center makes a difference. With prompt diagnosis and coordinated cancer treatment, patients have a stronger chance of protecting nerve function, improving survival, and maintaining long-term quality of life. Blog Link: Cranial Nerve Symptoms in Nasopharyngeal Cancer: What You Need to Know Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    19 min
  2. 5D AGO

    Pancreatic Cancer Myths and Facts: Separating Truth from Fear

    In this episode, we separate fact from fear about pancreatic cancer. Understanding the truth about risk factors, early symptoms, and treatment options helps patients and families act quickly, reduce anxiety, and make informed decisions for better health outcomes. You’ll learn: Common myths about pancreatic cancer and why they’re misleading Early signs and risk factors, including family history, lifestyle, and symptoms How treatment at specialized cancer centers improves recovery and survival Advances in therapy, such as surgery, chemotherapy, targeted treatments, and clinical trials The role of support systems, counseling, and patient groups in improving quality of life Why early detection and proactive care are critical for better outcomesMisunderstandings about pancreatic cancer can create fear, but knowing the facts empowers patients to take action. This episode guides listeners on what to watch for, how modern treatments work, and how emotional and practical support can improve both confidence and long-term survival. Blog Link: Pancreatic Cancer Myths and Facts: Separating Truth from Fear Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    22 min
  3. 5D AGO

    Why Multidisciplinary Oncology Care Leads to Better Patient Outcomes

    In this episode, we explain why multidisciplinary oncology care plays a critical role in improving patient outcomes. If you or a loved one is facing cancer treatment, understanding how a multidisciplinary team (MDT) works can help you make confident, informed decisions. You’ll learn: What multidisciplinary oncology care means and how an MDT functions How oncologists, surgeons, and radiologists collaborate on cancer treatment Why coordinated care leads to faster decisions and fewer treatment errors How personalized treatment plans improve survival rates and quality of life The impact of multidisciplinary care on breast cancer, lung cancer, and complex cases How support with nutrition, exercise, and side-effect management improves long-term healthWhen specialists meet regularly to review cases and share expertise, patients benefit from coordinated care at every stage from diagnosis to long-term follow-up. This team-based approach ensures treatment plans are based on the latest research and tailored to each patient’s type and stage of cancer. If you’re exploring cancer treatment options, this episode will help you understand how choosing a cancer center that offers multidisciplinary oncology care can improve survival, strengthen communication, and support better long-term outcomes. Blog Link: Why Multidisciplinary Oncology Care Leads to Better Patient Outcomes Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    12 min
  4. 6D AGO

    How Oncologists Use Cancer Staging to Determine Prognosis and Survival

    In this episode, we explain how oncologists use cancer staging to determine prognosis, guide treatment planning, and help patients understand survival rates. Cancer staging provides a clear picture of tumor size, lymph node involvement, and whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. You’ll learn: What cancer staging reveals about tumor growth and cancer spread How the TNM staging system works using Tumor (T), Nodes (N), and Metastasis (M) Why lymph node involvement affects prognosis How staging helps predict survival rates and life expectancy How oncologists use staging to choose surgery, radiation, or systemic treatment Why early-stage cancers often have better outcomes How staging helps avoid over-treatment and under-treatmentWe break down the TNM staging system in simple terms so you can understand how doctors classify the extent of cancer. Early-stage cancers are often treated with focused care, while advanced stages may require combined treatments such as surgery, radiation, and drug-based therapy. You’ll also learn why staging differs by cancer type and how oncologists adjust care plans based on tumor behavior, patient health, and response to treatment. Accurate staging improves oncology care by matching treatment to the specific stage of disease. If you or a loved one has recently received a cancer diagnosis, this episode will help you better understand prognosis, treatment decisions, and what the stage of cancer really means for your future. Blog Link: How Oncologists Use Staging to Determine Prognosis Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    16 min
  5. 6D AGO

    Liver Cancer Survival Rates: What the Statistics Really Mean for Patients

    In this episode, we break down liver cancer survival rates and explain what the statistics really mean. Understanding cancer statistics helps patients act early, choose the right treatment, and improve life expectancy and quality of life. You’ll learn: What liver cancer survival numbers actually represent How does early-stage liver cancer improve survival chances Why is cancer stage the most important factor in life expectancy How liver function and overall health affect recovery The role of risk factors like hepatitis, alcohol use, obesity, and liver disease When doctors recommend surgery or liver transplantation How chemotherapy and targeted therapy help in advanced-stage liver cancer Why early detection and regular monitoring improve outcomesWe explain how specialists use survival data to guide treatment decisions for primary liver cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients diagnosed at an early stage often qualify for surgery or liver transplantation, which offer the best long-term survival outcomes. Those with advanced-stage cancer may receive chemotherapy or targeted therapy to slow tumor growth and extend life. You’ll also learn how healthy habits like avoiding alcohol, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, and monitoring liver function support liver health during and after treatment. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with liver cancer, this episode will help you understand the numbers, ask better questions, and feel more confident about your next steps. Blog Link: Liver Cancer Survival Rates: What the Statistics Really Mean Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    23 min
  6. 6D AGO

    Patient Stories: Real Experiences With Cervical Cancer Treatment and Recovery

    In this episode, we share powerful cervical cancer patient stories that highlight strength, early detection, and hope. These real experiences show how women discover cervical cancer, face treatment decisions, and move forward with courage and support. You’ll learn: How routine pap tests and pap smears detect abnormal or precancerous cells early What women feel after receiving a cervical cancer diagnosis How doctors determine the stage using scans and lymph node evaluation What to expect from surgery, including a radical hysterectomy and recovery How radiation therapy supports cervical cancer treatment Why emotional support from family and friends makes a major difference How HPV vaccination and regular screening help prevent future casesWe explore real cervical cancer treatment experiences from early abnormal pap test results to surgery and radiation. You’ll hear how clear communication from specialists reduces fear and helps patients feel more confident about their care plan. These cancer survivor stories also share an important prevention message: early screening and HPV vaccination save lives. Women who act quickly often experience better outcomes and long-term hope. If you or someone you love has been recently diagnosed, this episode offers reassurance, clarity, and encouragement from women who have walked the same path and come out stronger. Blog Link: Patient Stories: Real Experiences With Cervical Cancer Treatment Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    21 min
  7. FEB 21

    Can Breast Cancer Be Treated Without Surgery? Understanding Non-Surgical Breast Cancer Treatment Options

    In this episode, we explore a question many patients ask: Can breast cancer be treated without surgery? While surgery remains the standard treatment for many early-stage cases, advances in breast cancer treatment now offer non-surgical options for select patients depending on cancer type, stage, and overall health. You’ll learn: What non-surgical breast cancer treatment options are available When doctors may safely avoid surgery How hormone therapy works for hormone receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer When chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are recommended Why aggressive cancers like triple-negative breast cancer often still require surgery How personalized treatment plans improve breast cancer survival ratesWe also discuss situations where surgery might be omitted, such as complete response to neoadjuvant therapy, inoperable or frail patients, and certain low-risk hormone-sensitive cancers. You’ll gain a clear understanding of how modern cancer care combines hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy to manage breast cancer effectively, even without surgery in select cases. If you or a loved one is facing a breast cancer diagnosis, this episode will help you better understand your options and feel more informed when discussing treatment with your oncology team. Blog Link: Can Breast Cancer Be Treated Without Surgery? Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    17 min
  8. FEB 21

    Types of Prostate Cancer and How They Differ: What PSA Tests and Gleason Scores Really Mean

    In this episode, we break down the different types of prostate cancer and explain how they vary in growth rate, aggressiveness, PSA detection, and treatment options. Understanding these differences helps patients make sense of PSA test results, Gleason scores, and personalized treatment plans. You’ll learn: What makes acinar adenocarcinoma the most common type of prostate cancer How aggressive prostate cancer types like ductal, small cell, and squamous cell carcinoma behave Why some rare cancers may not raise PSA levels How the PSA test, biopsy, imaging, and Gleason score guide diagnosis What does a Gleason score of 6–10 mean for risk and treatment urgency How cancer type determines whether doctors recommend surgery, radiation, or other treatmentWe also compare common and rare prostate cancer types, including acinar adenocarcinoma, ductal adenocarcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. You’ll understand why some cancers grow slowly and are managed with active surveillance, while others spread quickly and require immediate treatment. If you’ve received an abnormal PSA test result or are trying to understand your Gleason score, this episode will help you feel more informed and confident when discussing aggressive prostate cancer and treatment options with your specialist. Blog Link: Types of Prostate Cancer and How They Differ Send a text Thank you for listening to The Onco Life Podcast, your trusted source for expert cancer information and patient-centered education. Author: Dr. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE 📍 Visit us at oncolifecentre.com 📞 Call: +603-2242-2620 📧 Book a consultation or ask a question — we're here to support your journey.

    18 min

About

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. 🎧 Empowering you with knowledge, support, and compassionate care—every step of the way. 📍 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 🌐 Learn more at oncolifecentre.com