Together in the Fight: Gynecologic Cancer Support
September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month. In this special episode of The Vitals, Mount Sinai experts Dr. Shari Brasner (Obstetrics & Gynecology) and Dr. Alison Snow (Oncology & Supportive Care) discuss the latest in gynecologic cancer prevention, early detection, treatment options, survivorship, and patient support programs.
They highlight key issues surrounding ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer—as well as the emotional, physical, and social impact of these diagnoses on patients and families. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of comprehensive care and the role of support programs in improving quality of life.
Leslie Schlachter [00:00:00:00 - 00:00:03:17]
What would you say are some of the biggest misconceptions about gynecologic cancers?
Dr. Shari Brasner [00:00:03:20 - 00:00:25:07]
Well, I suppose I would say that you know, that they only happen to your grandma. You know, I mean, there are certainly. And you know, participating in the Woman to Woman program. You know, I'm meeting young cancer survivors more and more. So, you know, just understanding that this isn't something that you only start thinking about after menopause.
Dr. Shari Brasner [00:00:25:09 - 00:00:34:14]
You know that plenty of people are diagnosed with these, you know, at a younger age.
Leslie Schlachter [00:00:34:16 - 00:01:02:01]
Hi. Welcome to the vitals Mount Sinai Health Systems podcast. September is gynecologic awareness Month, and these cancers affect hundreds of thousands of women every year. Yet conversations about them don't always get the attention they deserve. Beyond the statistics, every diagnosis represents a woman navigating not only treatment, but also questions of identity, resilience, and support. Today's episode is about these stories and the communities that carry women through their toughest moments.
Leslie Schlachter [00:01:02:04 - 00:01:27:08]
We're joined by Doctor Shari Brasner, an Ob-Gyn at Mount Sinai, who suddenly found herself on the other side of the exam table as a cancer patient. She brings a rare dual perspective that reminds us cancer can touch anyone and those who dedicate their lives to caring for others. We're also joined by Doctor Allison Snow, PhD, senior director for cancer support services at Mount Sinai Health System, and works closely with the women to Women program.
Leslie Schlachter [00:01:27:09 - 00:01:40:10]
Thank you guys so much for being here today. This is, a really important topic for me, that I'm excited to share about. Let's start off with you, doctor Reisner. You are a doctor. You are an ob gyn. Correct.
Dr. Shari Brasner [00:01:40:12 - 00:01:45:00]
I have been an OB Joanne at Mount Sinai for now. 34 plus years. Yes.