Obiageli Ezewuiro, M.D., medical oncologist, is now seeing patients at Texas Oncology–El Paso Gateway, Grandview, and Joe Battle. She shares how advancements in testing are helping improve patient outcomes and why her patients continue to inspire her daily.
What inspired you to specialize in cancer care?
I have family members who were diagnosed with breast cancer at a very young age. It motivated me to help people with their cancer diagnoses, and to compassionately guide them and their families through their cancer journey.
We have made tremendous strides over the past decade in recognizing the molecular drivers of many cancers."
What are you most looking forward to as cancer treatment continues to evolve?
We have made tremendous strides over the past decade in recognizing the molecular drivers of many cancers. These strides have led to improvements in how many cancers are treated. For example, the use of broad molecular testing of tissue, looking at multiple mutations through "next-generation sequencing" of biopsies of tumor tissues is now emerging as a standard of care in the U.S. This will lead to an exponential growth in our ability to recognize why some patients do far better or worse with one treatment versus another and can target those proteins for better patient outcomes. In the majority of cancers, we can harness a patient's immune system to be able to recognize and attack their cancer.
What has working with cancer patients taught you about resiliency in the human spirit?
A cancer diagnosis can be very traumatic for patients and their families, and everyone handles it differently. I have had patients who experience post-traumatic growth during this process. They have taught me the importance of humility, letting go of the small stuff, and appreciating the things that matter most.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I love to exercise. I also love the outdoors and enjoy taking long walks and hiking.
What are you regularly tuning into right now? (podcast, show, musician, book, etc.).
I watch the Travel Channel and Food Network. My dream is to travel around the world and experience different cultures.