Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

As we close out 2024, we reflect on an unforgettable year at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. From scientific breakthroughs and access to innovative treatments to moments of pride and community support, this year has been filled with impactful milestones. Join us in celebrating the achievements and the incredible people—patients, caregivers, researchers, faculty, staff and donors—who made it all possible. Together, we're shaping the future of cancer care and creating a world with more survivors. Here's to even greater strides in 2025! #OnlySylvester #YearInReview #EndofYearRecap

Co-leader of the Tumor Biology Program, Dr. Priyamvada Rai conducts research that looks broadly at vulnerabilities associated with the metabolic “greed” of cancer cells. Cancer cells grow aggressively and rely heavily on energy-producing metabolic pathways, which become points of vulnerability that Dr. Rai leverages in her research to eliminate cancer cells while protecting normal cells. 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙏𝙪𝙢𝙤𝙧 𝘽𝙞𝙤𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙮 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙢? The cornerstone of research at Sylvester is collaborative excellence. The way to spark collaborations is by tapping into the natural curiosity of scientists and by building rapport and shared interests. Our program faculty members excel in different aspects of biology that converge on multiple aspects of cancer initiation, progression and treatment resistance. As a program leader, I help provide resources and funding to develop new collaborative ventures that arise from these interactions. 🔗 Read our Q&A to learn more about Dr. Rai's work: https://loom.ly/34vEO5I

Sylvester is now enrolling patients in a new clinical trial targeting high-grade neuroendocrine tumors — a rare, aggressive disease with limited treatment options and few medical advances. The trial explores a first-of-its-kind approach: a combination of immunotherapy drugs and a tumor-busting oncolytic virus injected directly into the tumors. Dr. Aman Chauhan and his team previously tested the strategy in preclinical models, where it led to tumor shrinkage and lasting responses. This phase 1 trial will enroll approximately 36 participants whose tumors have become resistant to or failed previous therapies. “These are patients who don’t have any other options left. They have exhausted all standard approaches,” said Dr. Chauhan. The goal: identify safe combination doses and begin measuring outcomes against historical standards of care. Learn more: https://loom.ly/mrdSRTQ

As a cancer patient, it can be challenging to ask questions of your health care providers. You might feel intimidated, worry about taking up too much time or want to appear informed about your condition. But asking questions isn’t a weakness — it’s an essential part of taking charge of your health. Breast cancer survivor and journalist Rochelle Broder-Singer🖊️ says keeping a running checklist of questions for her medical team was essential. "Having that piece of paper in hand helped me remember what I wanted to ask and gave me the courage to actually do the asking. I set it up as a checklist, and that checklist held me accountable," she explained. Many readers have asked too see Rochelle's checklists and now they're published! Explore her questions for each stage of her cancer journey: https://loom.ly/81TpcCM

We hosted an engaging panel at eMerge Americas, where health tech innovation met real-world application. 🙌 Moderated by health journalist Ileana Bravo, the conversation featured Dr. Stephen Nimer, Tracy Crane, PhD, MS, RDN, as well as Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Linebacker Jaelan Phillips, blending the perspectives of cancer prevention experts and a wellness-driven professional athlete. From wearables to genetic testing, diagnostic technologies and AI, the discussion highlighted how technology is revolutionizing our ability to prevent cancer. The result? A dynamic session that empowered attendees with the knowledge to take control of their #health and reduce their #cancer risk. 🚀 University of Miami Health System Jackson Health System

We’re just 1 day away from a dynamic conversation at eMerge Americas! Join Dr. Stephen Nimer, Tracy Crane, PhD, MS, RDN and Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, Jaelan Phillips for Empowering Cancer Prevention: Technology and Lifestyle in Action, moderated by award-winning health journalist Ileana Bravo. This powerful panel will explore how tech is empowering us to make better lifestyle choices and reduce our cancer risk. Don’t miss it—tomorrow at Miami Beach Convention Center! Last chance to register: https://loom.ly/JbSdF5c #eMergeAmericas University of Miami Health System Jackson Health System

New research suggests that older women with #cardiovascular disease (CVD) are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced-stage #breast #cancer. This emerging link could shift how #cardiologists and #oncologists screen patients and coordinate treatment. Experts at Sylvester and the University of Miami Health System hope the findings will lead to more integrated, collaborative care across specialties. “For me, it is a reminder that we must tell our patients to continue their regular screenings in addition to caring for their heart health,” shared Dr. Claudia Martinez. Dr. Carmen Julia Calfa, agrees the information from the study offers an opening for a renewed look at risk assessment and risk reduction strategies. “We have an opportunity to decrease the risk of developing and dying from both diseases. I believe that knowledge and awareness can empower us all.” Learn how Sylvester and UHealth clinicians are pioneering this care: https://loom.ly/uqTS7W0

Are you a surgical resident passionate about advancing cancer research? Our Research Training in Surgical Oncology Program offers a prestigious two-year training opportunity designed to equip future leaders in surgical oncology research with the expertise to translate discoveries into clinical practice. What’s Included: • Multidisciplinary Training. • Mentorship. • Hands-On Experience. • Seminars, lectures and grant writing workshops. • Career talks, mentorship committees and interdisciplinary research teams. • Sylvester trainee membership, travel awards and annual retreat. Now Accepting Applications. Program Start Date: July 1, 2025 Apply: Please email, SurgicalOncologyT32@miami.edu Learn more: https://loom.ly/8b0R8Ss Join us in transforming cancer research and advancing patient care—apply today!

Dr. Stephen Nimer, Tracy Crane, PhD, MS, RDN and Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium Linebacker Jaelan Phillips will take the stage at eMerge Americas, the premiere tech conference. Their session, Empowering Cancer Prevention: Technology and Lifestyle in Action, moderated by award-winning health journalist Ileana Bravo, will explore how technology is empowering people to make healthier lifestyle choices and supporting science to reduce cancer risk. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation between cancer prevention experts and a professional athlete and influencer. Join us at the Miami Beach Convention Center on Friday, March 28 from 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at the Health Hub Stage! Learn more and register: https://loom.ly/JbSdF5c. #eMergeAmericas University of Miami Health System Jackson Health System