Noah S. Rozich, M.D., surgical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology Surgical Specialists-Webster Deke Slayton Cancer Center. Dr. Rozich discusses an advancement in cancer treatment he hopes to see in the future, and what his favorite sport is to watch and play.
Why did you choose to go into surgery?
Surgery is a direct way to help people that relies not only on critical decision making and an understanding of clinical medicine, but also skill and problem solving. It continues to be a specialty that engages and challenges me but also positively impacts the lives of others.
What is an advancement in cancer treatment you hope to see during your career?
I’m hopeful for the development of a precision-based, personalized approach to certain aggressive cancer types, such as pancreatic or gastric cancer, wherein each patient’s disease is studied to create a tumor-specific chemotherapy or immune therapy regimen. That way, we are operating on patients with the best possible chance for complete disease eradication.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a surgical oncologist?
While I do enjoy the technical aspects and challenges of operating, being part of a multi-disciplinary team that provides hope, stability, and comfort to people in what can be the darkest time of their lives is most rewarding.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy spending your time doing?
I enjoy spending time with my family. My son loves to play outside, and my wife and I enjoy trying new restaurants and exploring new places. I love playing soccer and would like to start training jiu-jitsu with my son as he gets older.
What is the number one item on your bucket list you’d like to achieve this year?
My wife and I just bought our first house, which has been on our bucket list for a while. We would also love to travel as a family to Europe.
Do you have a favorite sport or sports team you actively follow?
My favorite sport is soccer. I am a huge Lionel Messi fan, so I followed Barcelona for a long time. Now, I will likely be watching Inter Miami games, along with the rest of the world.
Do you prefer listening to music or podcasts?
On road trips or in the morning when I’m more focused, I prefer podcasts. Other times, depending on the day or time of day, I prefer music. In the operating room, we listen to music constantly. It helps us find a flow and rhythm and stimulates conversation.