The University of Nebraska System has released the newest episode of its "Heart to Heart" podcast series. Hosted by University of Nebraska President Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., the podcast features in-depth conversations with leaders, researchers, educators, alums and partners who are making a difference in Nebraska and beyond.
In this episode, Dr. Gold is joined by Dr. Joann Sweasy, director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Sweasy, an internationally recognized scientist and leader in cancer research, shares insights into her personal journey, the center’s groundbreaking research and the critical role it plays in keeping Nebraskans healthy.
During the episode, Dr. Sweasy reflected on the moment that sparked her future career in cancer research—losing a young cousin to leukemia—and how it led her to dedicate her career to finding new treatments. “At that point, I knew that I would have a career in research,” Dr. Sweasy said. “I knew that in some way, research would help to cure cancer.”
One in three Nebraskans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes, putting Nebraska at an increased incidence rate of cancer compared to rates at the national level. As director of the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Sweasy is working to recruit and train top-tier researchers, build a cancer network across the state and provide cutting-edge treatments that make a real impact for patients.
“We are the National Cancer Institute designated center for the state of Nebraska, meaning that we meet incredibly rigorous standards for cutting edge research and developing novel therapies,” she said. “We know that patients who are treated at National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers have better outcomes.”
The conversation also highlights innovative new treatments, including a promising clinical trial developed at the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. The trial involves a drug designed to protect healthy tissue during radiation therapy while effectively targeting tumors—a remarkable breakthrough that could significantly improve patient outcomes.
President Gold praised Dr. Sweasy’s work and the impact the Cancer Center will have on future generations of medical professionals and patients.
“Dr. Sweasy is a trailblazer in cancer research science, a passionate mentor of the next generation,” he said. “We are grateful for her dedication to advancing our understanding of this deadly disease and efforts to educate and train the next generation of scientists.”
To learn more about the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, visit https://unmc.edu/cancercenter.
New episodes of the "Heart to Heart" podcast are released monthly, featuring guests from across the University of Nebraska System and the community, covering topics ranging from education and healthcare to athletics and student success.
Listeners may follow the podcast on Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.