Sarina A. Piha-Paul, M.D.
Assitant Professor
Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas

Dr. Sarina A. Piha-Paul proudly describes her patients, both men and women, as courageous people.  As their bodies are being attacked by an incurable cancer they offer their lives to clinical trails in hopes that the work that Dr. Piha-Paul and her team – at the most well known cancer center in America - are doing will benefit someone else down the road.

Dr. Piha-Paul speaks about cancer as if she were a detective, aggressively on the hunt for clues to solve a mystery - cancer in this case.  Her patients know when they meet with Dr. Piha-Paul that she is their absolute last hope and, tragically, they may not make it, but they come to her and her team for hope knowing that their work is crucial to the fight against cancer. Not only for the chance to extend their own lives, but to also help people who may suffer from the same disease that they have down the road.

“This is what makes people so absolutely special," she says.  "Besides looking for hope, they come here out of altruism for their fellow man (woman).”

In our interview with Dr. Piha-Paul, she helped us better understand cancer and how it affects the human body.  She gave us a clear understanding of how lifestyle changes can effect the potential for cancer to develop. From common sense eating, to exercise, and to getting regular checkups so as to not overlook potentially lingering symptoms.

Dr. Piha-Paul could not stress the importance of more clinical trials for both men and women alike. As a doctor who is a phase I treatment specialist, she investigates all forms of cancer and new treatments before they can move on in development.

“We are trying our best to make advances in cancer treatment," she says. "Today, we are beginning to understand the genetic underpinnings of this disease which allows us to personalize therapy for patients ultimately leading to improved outcomes."

Our special thanks to Dr. Piha-Paul for opening the door on cancer and the importance of clinical trails.