Healthy Cognitive Aging with MBC
Cognitive changes are a common part of living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Symptoms like memory lapses, trouble concentrating, and mood shifts can impact daily life, work and relationships. In this episode, Dr. Rachael Freedman and Dr. Tammy Hshieh talks to us about what is behind the cognitive changes during treatment, and what healthy cognitive aging looks like for people living with MBC. You’ll learn why these changes happen, how to distinguish between normal aging and treatment related cognitive challenges, and practical things you can do to help, memory, mood and overall brain health.
Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with metastatic breast cancer for years, this conversation offers actionable tools and reassurance to help you feel more in control of your health.
Episode Notes:
Dana Farber Cancer Institute Program for Older Adults with Breast Cancer (OABC)
Learn more about the signs for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias on the Alzheimer’s Association website.
Meet the Guests of the Episode
Rachel A. Freedman, MD, MPH
Dr. Freedman is a medical oncologist, clinical researcher, and Founding Medical Director for the Program for Older Adults with Breast Cancer at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. Her research focuses on improving the care of vulnerable patient populations who are often under-represented in clinical trials and who are at risk for poor cancer outcomes. Recognizing that older women are more likely to have other health conditions that can complicate their treatment for breast cancer, and may have particular challenges involving finances, support networks, and the logistics of receiving treatment, Dr. Freedmen founded the Program for Older Adults with Breast Cancer at Dana-Farber in 2022. The program supports older adults throughout their breast cancer journey and acts as a single point of contact to help connect patients to the many supportive care resources that are available throughout the Institute. Dr. Freedman joined the faculty at Dana-Farber in 2009. She studied at Georgetown University School of Medicine and obtained her Master’s in Public Health at the Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Her research has been funded by numerous organizations including the NIH, Susan G. Komen, the American Cancer Society, among other foundations.
Tammy T. Hshieh, MD, MPH
Dr. Hshieh is a physician-scientist with a focused interest on improving cognition and function in older patients, and promoting healthier aging. Her research has focused on delirium and cognitive impairment, and preventing these common conditions with high morbidity and mortality among older adults. Clinically, Dr. Hshieh has expertise in the care of older adults with cancer. She leads the Comprehensive Geriatric Oncology programs at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute which focus on improving the quality of care for older oncology patients. This co-management of older cancer patients is unique nationally.
