The Educated Patient Podcast: Finding Clarity and Hope in Breast Cancer Care

In the latest episode of The Educated Patient Podcast, host Mike DeMarco sits down with Jane Lowe Meisel, M.D., FASCO — professor of hematology and medical oncology; co-director of breast medical oncology; and associate vice chair of faculty development and promotions at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University. A nationally recognized leader in breast cancer care, Meisel blends cutting-edge clinical expertise with deep compassion for the people she treats. In this conversation, she offers patients meaningful guidance on everything from receiving an initial diagnosis to understanding screening, treatment decision-making and sources of hope.

Meisel opens by sharing her path into oncology, rooted in early volunteer work that showed her how medicine could unite science, human connection and meaningful impact. Breast cancer became a natural fit: a common condition affecting nearly every family yet one where research has led to remarkable progress. Today, more patients are living longer and better with breast cancer than ever before — a message of hope she emphasizes throughout the episode.

A central portion of the conversation explores the “shell shock” of diagnosis. Meisel notes that the earliest stages are often the hardest because of the uncertainty patients face. She reassures listeners that while breast cancer can feel overwhelming, patients are never alone. Modern breast cancer care is highly team-based, involving surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists and more — each offering expertise while guiding patients through every step. Building trust, she explains, is fundamental. Her signature question — “Is there anything I should know about you that will help me take good care of you?” — creates space for patients to share concerns or personal circumstances that shape how care should be delivered.

She also emphasizes that patients should feel empowered to ask providers, “If you were me, what would you do?” This question humanizes clinical decision-making and helps patients and clinicians align on what matters most.

Meisel encourages mammography starting at age 40, risk-adapted screening based on family history or genetics and early evaluation of any breast changes. Lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight and staying physically active matter — but even those who “do everything right” may still develop breast cancer. Early detection, strong partnerships, and a hopeful, informed mindset are key.