By Vivian Phillips
Arkansas TV Intern
UCA Class of 2026. Journalism Major, Marketing Minor
Cancer begins when mutations cause normal cells to change and grow abnormally. In 2026, more than 20,000 Arkansans are expected to be diagnosed with cancer. This week on “Arkansas Talks Health,” specialists from the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute offer a wide-ranging and deeply human look at cancer – from what happens inside the body to the decision, emotions and practical challenges that can follow a diagnosis.
“Arkansas Talks Health” premieres Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m.
“Cancer is curable. And for those cancers that are not curable today, they will be tomorrow.”
- Dr. Omar Atiq, Medical Oncologist at the UAMS Cancer Institute.
More than 200 different types of cancer exist, each requiring its own approach to diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care. While advances in medicine continue to improve outcomes, effective cancer treatment is more than fighting one disease. It is about understanding the unique needs, concerns and goals of every individual patient. That philosophy is at the heart of modern cancer care.
“We don't treat cancer. We treat patients with cancer.”
- Dr. Omar Atiq, Medical Oncologist at the UAMS Cancer Institute
The discussion also explores the steps individuals can take before a diagnosis, including understanding their personal and family health history and considering genetic counseling. Alex Wadley, Certified Genetic Counselor at the UAMS Cancer Institute, explained, “All cancers are genetic in some way, shape or form.” While all cancers involve genetic changes, approximately 10% are hereditary. Because of this, early screening and genetic risk assessment can play a critical role in early detection, allowing cancer to be identified sooner and treated more effectively.
“The earlier you detect a cancer, the lower the stage of that particular cancer—and that gives the patient the best chance of survival.”
- Dr. Sanjaya Viswamitra, Diagnostic Radiologist at the UAMS Cancer Institute
Featured experts:
• Dr. Omar Atiq, Medical Oncologist at the UAMS Cancer Institute. Explains what cancer is, how treatment decisions are made and why cancer care must remain centered on the individual patient.
• Dr. Sanjaya Viswamitra, Diagnostic Radiologist at the UAMS Cancer Institute. Discusses screening, early detection and the role of imaging in finding, staging and monitoring cancer.
• Alex Wadley, Certified Genetic Counselor at the UAMS Cancer Institute. Clarifies the difference between genetic changes in cancer cells and hereditary cancer risk, including when counseling and testing may be appropriate.
• Carla Green, OSW-C and LCSW at the UAMS Cancer Institute. Describes the emotional and practical support oncology social workers provide to patients, caregivers and families.
• Jael Hastings, OSW-C and LCSW at the UAMS Cancer Institute. Explains how oncology social workers identify needs, connect families with resources and help patients focus on treatment and recovery.
• Matthew Kovak, Clinical Trials Office Director at UAMS. Explains how clinical trials work, when they may become an option and the protections and practical considerations involved in participation.
Helpful Resources
• UAMS Patients and Family - The UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute is Arkansas’s leading center for cancer treatment, research, and patient care.
• CARTI - An independent, not-for-profit cancer care provider, with 18 locations across Arkansas.
• Hope Cancer Resources - Licensed oncology social workers offer counseling, support groups and financial assistance to patients and families.
Tune In
Watch “Arkansas Talks Health” on Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m., live on broadcast or on YouTube at YouTube.com/@arkansastv.