Peter Weir, MD, interviews Sach Apte, MD, MS, MBA, chief clinical officer of Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah (the U), physician in chief of the cancer hospital, and professor of obstetrics and gynecology, about his path into oncology and the rewards and challenges of cancer care. Dr. Apte discusses the rapid progress in the field since the passage of the National Cancer Act, highlighting advances in surgery, radiation, and increasingly effective, less toxic systemic therapies. He also notes the growth of precision oncology, immunotherapy, targeted therapies, cell therapies (including CAR T), and radioligand therapy/theranostics.

The conversation explores cancer prevention and screening, including investigational multi-cancer early detection liquid biopsies and rising cancer rates among younger adults. Dr. Apte outlines the roles of NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers, emphasizing clinical trials, multidisciplinary tumor boards, and efforts to expand rural access through telehealth, an undiagnosed/accelerated diagnostics clinic, and the Huntsman at Home program. He underscores the importance of implementation and ensuring equitable access to care regardless of zip code.

Learn More: