Making The Call: A Guide To Cancer Treatment Choices

Welcome to another edition of the Doctor’s Note where we talk about what’s on our minds when it comes to your health.

This week I sat down again with Dr. Jamal Maatouk, an oncologist with a remarkable blend of clinical expertise and heartfelt empathy. Our conversation went beyond the standard cancer treatment protocols—diving deep into the human side of healing, individualized care, and the expanding landscape of options for people facing cancer. Dr. Maatouk’s philosophy is rooted in seeing each person as more than a diagnosis. She’s passionate about learning her patients’ stories, their values, and what healing means to them, all in the context of rapidly evolving cancer therapies.

A significant theme of our discussion was the importance of embracing all facets of healing: medical innovation, holistic adjunctive therapies, and the profound power of the human mind and spirit. Medicine is advancing quickly, and while tools like immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and CAR T-cell therapy are extending and improving lives, Dr. Maatouk reminded us that healing truly starts from within. Open communication, shared decision-making, and hope aren’t just nice ideas—they’re foundational to great care.

PODCAST NOTES 

• Individualized Approach to Cancer Care: Dr. Maatouk emphasized that no two cancer patients—or cancers—are alike. There’s no preset formula. She custom-tailors each treatment plan by getting to know her patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. This allows her to recommend care that aligns with the patient’s personal values, goals, and lifestyle.

• Comprehensive Treatment Modalities: Today’s cancer treatment toolkit includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Oncologists rely on recognized guidelines (such as NCCN), but each treatment plan is adapted to the type and stage of cancer, as well as patient-specific factors like age, overall health, and preferences.

• Navigating the “Art of Medicine”: With a range of first-line treatment options available, true medical skill involves matching therapies to patient needs and circumstances. Whether it’s avoiding medications that may interact with a patient’s other drugs, or choosing a therapy with more tolerable side effects, personalization is key. This balance between science and sensitivity is the “art” Dr. Maatouk refers to.

• Rise of the Informed and Empowered Patient: Patients are increasingly doing their own research, asking about alternatives, and wanting to understand why certain recommendations are being made. Dr. Maatouk welcomes this engagement, seeing it as essential to good care—and encourages patients to advocate for themselves and ask the tough questions.

• Benefits of Lower-Dose Chemotherapy: Not every patient can tolerate traditional, full-strength chemotherapy. Dr. Maatouk often uses lower doses, especially in elderly or more fragile patients, showing that it’s possible to maintain efficacy while reducing side effects and improving quality of life. “Start low and go slow” is her mantra, and it’s made a significant difference for many.

• Value of Second (and Third!) Opinions: Dr. Maatouk and I agree that seeking another perspective should always be encouraged. More minds looking at a case often means more confidence in the chosen treatment plan, and sometimes new ideas. Most oncologists follow similar best practices, but a second or third opinion is an invaluable tool for both patient safety and peace of mind.

• Thoughtful Use of Alternative and Adjunctive Therapies: Many people turn to supplemental therapies—vitamins, off-label medications, or spiritual practices. Dr. Maatouk prioritizes safety and honest communication when patients bring these options to the table, making sure there are no harmful interactions and that choices are evidence-informed. She stresses that belief and hope can be powerful healing agents on their own.

• Healing Beyond Medicine—Faith, Empowerment, and Self-Belief: Perhaps the most important insight was Dr. Maatouk’s conviction that deep healing often begins within. Patients have innate power—through faith, hope, mindset, and soul—that can dramatically affect their recovery. Healing is not just about drugs or surgery, but about nurturing body, mind, and spirit, with the guidance of a loving, supportive physician.

Let me remind you, facing a cancer diagnosis (or any major health event) doesn’t mean surrendering your choices or your hope. Today’s medicine is more collaborative and holistic than ever. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself or your loved ones, ask questions, seek second opinions, or explore supportive therapies. Healing is possible, especially when you approach it as a whole person and assemble the right team around you. 

If you have questions, need support, or want to learn more, reach out to us or tune in to our next podcast. We’re here to walk this journey alongside you—and as Dr. Maatouk so beautifully says, “There’s no right or wrong. There is only love.”

Stay educated.  Stay healthy.

Till next week.