The Cancer Professionals Podcast

Macmillan Cancer Support
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Do you work in cancer care? On this podcast, we interview a wide range of guests, including health and social care professionals, to lift the lid on current issues faced by the cancer workforce. Expect to hear discussions of clinical practice, personal experience and practical advice to improve your knowledge and skills in supporting people affected by cancer. New episodes are released on the first Wednesday of each month. The Cancer Professionals Podcast is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples covered in the episodes are based in the UK and reflect the UK health systems as they were at the time of recording. Listeners are reminded to always refer to their local policies and procedures to ensure they are following the guidelines of their workplace. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

  1. 6d ago

    Let's talk about: Sex, intimacy and cancer

    In this episode, we explore how cancer and its treatments can affect sexual wellbeing and intimacy during and after cancer treatment. We're joined by Elvin Box who shares his personal experience of prostate cancer and the impact on his sexual wellbeing, Dr Jo Ashcroft, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Lead for the Macmillan Cancer Psychological Support (CaPS) Service and Caitlin Harvey, Lead Cancer Nurse from St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Together, we discuss why sexual health is an important part of holistic cancer care and how professionals can create safe, inclusive spaces for conversations about sex and intimacy. We also explore how the impact of cancer on sexual wellbeing can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexuality or cancer type, and why support may be needed at any stage of the cancer pathway.  This episode forms part of a special trilogy exploring fertility, sex and intimacy, and pregnancy in the context of cancer. Together, these episodes aim to support health and care professionals to have more confident, compassionate and inclusive conversations about life, relationships and future plans beyond cancer. By the end of this episode, you will be able to: Understand how cancer and its treatments can affect sex, intimacy and relationships.Recognise that sexual wellbeing concerns can affect people of all ages, genders, sexualities and cancer types.Feel more confident initiating sensitive, inclusive conversations about sex and intimacy with people affected by cancer.Identify relevant resources and support services for people experiencing sexual wellbeing concerns during or after cancer treatment.Content warning: This episode contains conversations about the lived experience of cancer and discussions about sex and intimacy. Listener discretion is advised. Links from the episode: Cancer and your sex life | Macmillan Cancer Support  Sex, intimacy, and cancer - St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust  Sex and Cancer - OUTpatients  How cancer can affect your sexuality and sex life | Cancer Research UK  Sex, intimacy and cancer | Maggie's  Sex and relationships | Prostate Cancer UK  Orchid Fighting Male Cancer  OUTpatients has partnered with professionals in cancer, continence, and sexual wellbeing at St Georges and The Royal Marsden to create these free to access bitesize learning modules. They are designed to support healthcare professionals in having confident, compassionate conversations about continence, sexual wellbeing and intimacy with patients and, where relevant, those important to them. Continence Sex and intimacy This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.  Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Let's talk about: Sex, intimacy and cancer

  2. Oct 21

    Let's talk about: Fertility and cancer

    How can cancer and cancer treatment affect fertility, future family plans and life beyond cancer?  In this episode, we are joined by Kreena Dhiman, patient ambassador and advocate who shares her story of navigating breast cancer as a young South Asian woman and Professor Richard Anderson, fertility specialist and Professor of Clinical Reproductive Science, to explore the emotional, practical and often time-critical decisions that fertility brings following a cancer diagnosis.   Together, they discuss fertility preservation, the impact of treatment on fertility, donor conception, surrogacy, and the many different pathways to parenthood after cancer. Kreena shares her personal journey of building a family, while Richard offers expert insight into fertility care, informed decision-making and how healthcare professionals can better support patients.   The conversation highlights the importance of early fertility discussions, compassionate signposting, inclusive care and helping people hold on to hope during an uncertain time.  Content warning: This episode contains conversations about fertility and cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.  This episode forms part of a special trilogy exploring fertility, sex and intimacy, and pregnancy in the context of cancer. Together, these episodes aim to support health and care professionals to have more confident, compassionate and inclusive conversations about life, relationships and future plans beyond cancer. This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to work with others to make sure the same treatment and support is accessible to everyone across the UK. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.  By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to:   Describe how cancer and its treatment can affect fertility and future family-building options. Recognise the emotional, social and cultural impact of fertility concerns for people affected by cancer. Identify opportunities to initiate timely and sensitive fertility conversations. Explain the importance of providing comprehensive information about multiple pathways to parenthood. Apply practical approaches to offering hope, support and signposting throughout the cancer pathway. Reflect on how inclusive and culturally responsive fertility discussions can improve patient experiences and outcomes. Links to the resources mentioned Cancer, Fertility and Me Kreena Dhiman Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Let's talk about: Fertility and cancer

  3. Oct 14

    Bonus episode: Celebrating National Allied Health Professions Day

    In this special bonus episode, we celebrate National Allied Health Professions Day by shining a light on the incredible contribution Allied Health Professionals make across cancer care. We revisit four memorable moments from previous podcast episodes, featuring AHP guests who share inspiring examples of innovation, collaboration and person-centred care. These clips offer a snapshot of the diverse and valuable roles AHPs play in supporting people affected by cancer every day. Join us as we celebrate the people and professions making a difference across cancer services. This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to reach everyone, especially those who need us most. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Bonus episode: Celebrating National Allied Health Professions Day

  4. Oct 7

    Special rules: Helping more people access financial support at end of life

    Recent research funded by Marie Curie has highlighted that many people approaching the end of life may be missing out on financial support available through the Special Rules for End of Life route. Inspired by this important work, we are joined by Ash Lillis, National Clinical Advisor at Macmillan Cancer Support, and Steve Marshall, Specialist Palliative Care Social Worker, to explore the barriers that can prevent people accessing support and the role healthcare professionals can play in helping change this.   Together, they discuss the latest research findings, the importance of financial wellbeing as part of holistic care, and practical steps cancer professionals can take to improve awareness, confidence and access to support for patients and families. The episode also highlights the wider work of Marie Curie and the research that inspired this conversation.  By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to:   Describe the purpose of the Special Rules for End of Life route and why it matters.   Recognise some of the barriers that can prevent eligible patients from accessing support.   Understand the role healthcare professionals can play in identifying and supporting patients.   Identify practical actions and resources that can support conversations about financial wellbeing. This episode contains conversations about life-limiting illness and end of life which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.  This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to reach everyone, especially those who need us most. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.  Links from the episode https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/the-take-up-study https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/document/special-rules-briefing https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/ Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Special rules: Helping more people access financial support at end of life

  5. Sep 16

    Domestic abuse and cancer

    Domestic abuse affects one in five people, and cancer affects one in two, but what happens when they overlap? In this episode we explore the impact that domestic abuse can have on people affected by cancer. From delayed diagnoses and missed appointments to treatment decisions and recovery, domestic abuse can influence every stage of the cancer journey.   We're joined by Lucy Angell John, Domestic Abuse and Cancer Trainer for SWAG Cancer Alliance, who shares her expertise on recognising the signs of domestic abuse, understanding how it may present in cancer care, and creating safe opportunities for people to access support. You'll also hear powerful lived experience accounts from Fee and Kimmy, who have generously shared, in writing, their experiences of navigating cancer while experiencing domestic abuse. Their stories offer valuable insight into the additional challenges some people face while undergoing treatment and recovery.  This episode highlights that cancer professionals don't need to be domestic abuse experts to make a difference. By staying curious, recognising potential signs, and knowing where to signpost for support, healthcare professionals can play an important role in helping people affected by both cancer and domestic abuse access the help they need. Content warning: This episode contains conversations about domestic abuse and cancer. Some of the conversation may be upsetting or triggering, so please take it steady and be compassionate towards yourself.  If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this episode, confidential support is available from the National Domestic Abuse Helpline. You can call 0808 2000 247 or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk. This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to reach everyone, especially those who need us most. Read more about Macmillan's strategy. Links: Cancer and domestic abuse toolkit for professionals: Cancer-and-domestic-abuse-a-toolkit-for-professionalshttps://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/domestic-abusehttps://www.macmillan.org.uk/donate/gifts-in-wills/preventing-will-fraudNational Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247/ https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/Galop- https://www.galop.org.ukNational LGBT+ Abuse Helpline: 0800 999 5428Domestic violence and abuse | NHS Employers'Making a Difference' animation- Making a Difference - Cancer and Domestic Abuse - SWAG Cancer AllianceLearning objectives Recognise the signs and impact of domestic abuse in people affected by cancer.  Understand how domestic abuse may influence treatment, recovery and healthcare engagement.  Use appropriate questioning techniques to explore concerns safely and sensitively.  Respond appropriately to disclosures and provide supportive validation.  Access and signpost to relevant safeguarding and domestic abuse support services  Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Domestic abuse and cancer

  6. Sep 2

    Weight loss medications and cancer

    Medications for obesity, including GLP-1 medicines such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, are becoming increasingly common, but what do they mean for people living with and beyond cancer? In this episode, Kirsty Clutterbuck, Head and Neck Dietitian and Chair of the British Dietetic Association’s (BDA) Oncology Specialist Group, and Kate Turney, Lead Nurse for the Upper GI Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Team at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, explore the benefits, risks and unanswered questions around medications for obesity in cancer care. They discuss how GLP-1 medicines work, the potential impact of weight and muscle loss during cancer treatment, and how side effects can overlap with cancer and treatment-related symptoms. They also explore how professionals can respond to patient questions, discuss weight and nutrition sensitively, and support shared decision-making through multidisciplinary care. By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to: Explain how GLP-1 medicines work and the key considerations for people living with and beyond cancer.Recognise potential nutritional risks, including rapid weight loss, muscle loss and symptoms that may be difficult to distinguish from cancer or treatment side effects.Discuss obesity medicines, weight and nutrition with patients in a sensitive, non-judgemental way.Identify how dietitians, CNSs and wider multidisciplinary teams can support safe, person-centred decision-making.Content warning This episode contains conversations about obesity, eating behaviours and weight stigma which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised. Links from the episode:  Staying healthy when taking medications for obesity - BDA Weight-loss injections and cancer: your questions answered | Macmillan Cancer Support Nutrition Strategies for Next‐Generation Incretin Therapies: A Systematic Scoping Review of the Current Evidence - Spreckley - 2026 - Obesity Reviews - Wiley Online Library   Screening for malnutrition in people living with cancer and overweight or obesity: A scoping review - ScienceDirect   Further information This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to offer more personalised support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. You can read more about this in Macmillan's strategy. Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Weight loss medications and cancer

  7. Aug 19

    Learning disabilities and cancer care: Talk to me, not about me

    In this episode, we explore the experiences of people with learning disabilities across the cancer care pathway. While everyone has the right to be involved in decisions about their own health and treatment, people with learning disabilities often face significant health inequalities, including barriers to accessing cancer services, understanding information, and having their voices heard. Amanda Cresswell (researcher and contributor of lived experience) and Irene Tuffrey-Wijne (Professor of Intellectual Disability & Palliative Care, Lead of The KIND Research Group) join us to discuss the challenges people with learning disabilities can experience following a cancer diagnosis and throughout treatment and care. We also explore how healthcare professionals can improve outcomes through clear communication, reasonable adjustments, and person-centred approaches that ensure individuals are fully included in conversations and decisions about their care.  By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to:    Identify common barriers to communication and involvement in cancer treatment and care for people with learning disabilities  Reflect on the emotional and practical effects for people with learning disabilities by not being involved in conversations about one’s own care.  Recognise the value of adapting communication and approaches to support individual needs for people with learning disabilities.  Reflect on how healthcare professionals can create more inclusive, supportive, and person-centred interactions for people with learning disabilities. Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer, which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.  Links from the episode:  The Victoria and Stuart Project - https://www.victoriaandstuart.com/  Books Beyond Words - https://www.booksbeyondwords.co.uk/resources-dl?rq=funeral  The DAPPLE Project - https://www.dappleproject.com/  How to use ’My funeral cards’ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mv1L3ktlUfs  LeDeR report – learning from the lives and deaths of people with a learning disability-https://www.kcl.ac.uk/research/leder  Easy read cancer information https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/translations-and-other-formats/easy-read-cancer-information  Nhs passport https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/health-and-care-passports/  NHS reasonable adjustments https://www.england.nhs.uk/learning-disabilities/improving-health/reasonable-adjustments/  This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective to make cancer care fair for everyone Read more about Macmillan's strategy.  Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Learning disabilities and cancer care: Talk to me, not about me

  8. Aug 5

    Treatable but not curable cancer: Supporting people to live well

    What does it mean to live with treatable but not curable cancer?  In this episode, Alyson Thompson shares her lived experience alongside Caroline Tweedie's professional perspective, exploring the realities of living with ongoing treatment, uncertainty, and the impact cancer can have on everyday life. Together, we discuss personalised care, compassionate communication, and how healthcare professionals can help people live well beyond their diagnosis.  The conversation offers practical insights and powerful reflections for anyone supporting people living with cancer, reminding us of the importance of seeing the person behind the diagnosis and focusing on what matters most to them.  By listening to or watching this episode in full, you will be able to:  Describe the impact that living with treatable but not curable cancer can have on a person's wellbeing, relationships, identity and daily life. Recognise the role of healthcare professionals in supporting people to navigate uncertainty while maintaining hope, autonomy and quality of life. Apply person-centred communication approaches that enable meaningful conversations about individual goals, priorities and support needs. Identify opportunities to improve care and support for people living with treatable but not curable cancer through holistic assessment, personalised care and collaborative decision making. Content warning: This episode contains conversations about lived experience of cancer which you may find upsetting or triggering. Listener discretion is advised.      Links from the episode: Treatable but not curable cancer resources | Healthcare professionals | Macmillan Cancer Support Treatable But Not Curable Cancer This episode aligns with Macmillan's strategic objective(s) to offer more personal support to people affected by cancer and other health conditions. Read more about Macmillan's strategy.  Please complete this short, anonymous survey to help us understand your experience as a listener- what you find most useful, how you've been able to apply insights from the podcast in your role, and where we can improve. It will only take around 15 minutes to complete: The Cancer Professionals Podcast- listener survey If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning or Macmillan’s Learning Hub for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples discussed in episodes are UK based and reflect UK health systems at the time of recording. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

    Treatable but not curable cancer: Supporting people to live well
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About

Do you work in cancer care? On this podcast, we interview a wide range of guests, including health and social care professionals, to lift the lid on current issues faced by the cancer workforce. Expect to hear discussions of clinical practice, personal experience and practical advice to improve your knowledge and skills in supporting people affected by cancer. New episodes are released on the first Wednesday of each month. The Cancer Professionals Podcast is brought to you by Macmillan Cancer Support. If you work in health or social care, visit www.macmillan.org.uk/learning for more information about free education and training from Macmillan Cancer Support. Disclaimer: The content and information in these episodes is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. All examples covered in the episodes are based in the UK and reflect the UK health systems as they were at the time of recording. Listeners are reminded to always refer to their local policies and procedures to ensure they are following the guidelines of their workplace. No material within this series is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified and registered healthcare providers.

Information

  • Creator
    Macmillan Cancer Support
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    48
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Macmillan Cancer Support
  • Show Website
    The Cancer Professionals Podcast

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