When most people hear they have cancer, their first thought is to do whatever it takes to get it out of their body. But that rush to surgery may not always be the best course of action, according to Dr. Dineo Khabele, division director of gynecological oncology at The University of Kansas Health System. Dr. Khabele says many times, especially when it comes to gynecological cancers, a careful and measured approach is better.

            In the video, Dr. Khabele explains the Women’s Cancer Center at The University of Kansas Cancer Center offers a unique approach to helping women with that diagnosis. She says it begins with a nurse navigator, who coordinates a woman’s access to an entire team of experts. She also describes the work of the tumor board, and why that group of experts is so important in making sure the patient gets the best available treatment for their particular cancer. The doctor also says a vital part of the Women’s Cancer Center is helping “previvors,” women who are at high risk of breast or ovarian cancer but have not yet developed the disease. She also says they are studying new drugs to treat women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.