In this episode, Carla introduces essential pathology tests that help her patients understand their health status and wellbeing, with a focus on those affected by cancer. These tests provide insight into various body systems and offer a powerful approach for patients to engage in their care. Each test has unique purposes, from tracking immune function to detecting inflammation or nutrient deficiencies and can be valuable even for those without cancer.

Here are the key tests Carla recommends:

1. Full Blood Examination (FBE) – Provides a snapshot of blood health, showing red and white cell counts, and platelets, which help assess immune function, anaemia and blood-related cancers like leukaemia.

2. General Biochemistry Panel – Examines kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and detox pathways, offering insight into nutrition and how well the body is functioning overall.

3. Vitamin D – Low vitamin D is linked to poor prognosis in cancer patients, making this test essential for those undergoing treatment.

4. HbA1c – Measures average blood glucose over 2-3 months and helps understand blood sugar management, which can influence cancer progression.

5. ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) – Detects inflammation in the body, which can be a sign of immune disorders or blood cancers.

6. ANA (Antinuclear Antibodies) – Checks for antibodies that mistakenly attack healthy cells, relevant in immune system function and some cancer types.

7. Cancer Markers – Specific markers like PSA, CEA, CA125, CA15.3, and CA 19.9 can indicate cancer activity, providing early detection or monitoring during treatment.

8. Iron Studies – Iron and ferritin levels reveal more than anaemia; they’re key in oxygen distribution, energy, and overall vitality.

9. B12 Levels – Essential for energy, red blood cell formation, and detoxification, especially important for cancer patients.

10. FitGenes Health & Wellbeing Report – Offers a personalized genetic profile to help tailor diet, exercise and lifestyle choices based on individual DNA, supporting overall health and resilience.

Additional Tests Discussed:

- Hormone Profiles (DUTCH Test) – For complex hormone assessments through dried urine samples.

- Microbiome Testing – Reveals the relationship between microbiome health and cancer, affecting areas like vaginal, urinary, oral, gastrointestinal and even tumour microbiomes.

- RGCC Onconomics Plus – Provides personalized data on effective drugs and natural substances against cancer cells, guiding tailored treatment options.

Next Episode Preview: Carla explains how these tests provide vital information and empower patients to take an active role in their care. Join us in the next episode, where Carla will explore pathology of interest in more depth, helping listeners understand the power of tracking their own health.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

In this episode of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla emphasises the importance of information and the patient's story in cancer care. Drawing inspiration from Professor Kerryn Phelps' book, "The Cancer Recovery Guide," Carla encourages patients to create a BIG folder containing all their medical records, histopathology, care team details, current and past treatment schedules, diets and lots of other metrics from the diagnosis and throughout their cancer experience.

Carla discusses the significance of having organised information readily available, including blood tests. She explains how a neat spreadsheet of blood test results can provide valuable insights into a patient's health status, allowing for more focused discussions during consultations. By tracking trends in biochemistry, such as liver function, kidney function, white cell count, inflammation and blood glucose levels, Carla can better understand priorities and make informed treatment suggestions.

Listeners are encouraged to create their own BIG folder and Carla provides guidance on the type of information to include. Additionally, she teases the next episode, where she'll delve into the Pathology of Interest and the power of understanding one's own pathology, whether or not they have cancer.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she explores the Pathology of Interest and discusses the power of understanding one's own pathology, regardless of whether they have cancer.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

In this episode of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla focuses on the challenges patients face when dealing with life changes associated with a cancer diagnosis, both in the short and long term. She introduces the concept of lifestyle medicine, an extensively researched approach aimed at improving quality of life for cancer patients.

Lifestyle medicine encompasses various areas including sleep, movement and exercise, diet and nutrition, stress management, personal development, social and spiritual connection. Carla highlights the work of Dr. Lise Alchuler in this field, emphasizing the profound impact these lifestyle factors have on patients' cancer experiences and quality of life. She discusses how factors such as movement, nutrition, sleep and stress management can influence cancer outcomes.

Throughout the episode, Carla emphasises the importance of tailoring lifestyle interventions to each individual's preferences and needs, acknowledging that what works for one person may not work for another. She encourages listeners to consider their own preferences and habits when implementing lifestyle changes.

Key Points:

• Lifestyle medicine is a research-backed approach aimed at improving quality of life for all people, including those with cancer.
• Various lifestyle factors, including sleep, movement, diet, stress management, and social connection, can impact cancer outcomes and overall wellbeing.
• Tailoring lifestyle interventions to individual preferences and needs is crucial for success.
• The importance of optimism and positive thinking in dealing with cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she explores the concept of having your own "BIG Folder"…

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

Before delving into discussions about side effects in Episode 4 of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla takes a moment to define and elaborate on Naturopathic Medicine and Integrative Oncology. Naturopathic medicine is described as a comprehensive approach to primary healthcare, focusing on education, prevention, treatment and holistic health of mind, body and spirit. Carla explains the various therapies involved, including clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, physical movement prescriptions and lifestyle counselling.

Integrative Oncology, on the other hand, combines conventional and complementary medicines to provide patient-centred care aimed at optimising outcomes. Carla emphasises the collaborative nature of integrative oncology, where all healthcare providers work together to support patients physically, mentally and emotionally.

Throughout the episode, Carla stresses the importance of addressing side effects experienced by cancer patients, which can vary in type and severity depending on the cancer type, diagnosis and treatment received. She acknowledges the fear patients often have regarding side effects and expresses her passion for providing suggestions to minimise or avoid them.

Carla highlights the significance of evidence-based complementary medicine in helping patients feel better daily, manage treatment side effects and supporting recovery. She shares some of her favourite evidence-based therapies for minimising side effects, including nutritional powders for bowel function, unique formulations for hot flashes and herbal medicines for fatigue and radiation dermatitis.

Additionally, Carla discusses the importance of lifestyle medicine strategies in managing side effects and improving quality of life for cancer patients. She touches on rest, movement, fasting and specific diets as factors that can make a significant difference in patient experiences.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she shares her lifestyle medicine tips and tricks to support patients with cancer, helping them manage side effects and improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

In this episode of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla reflects on her journey from graduating as a Naturopath & Nutritionist to her special interest in Integrative Oncology. She shares how her personal experiences, including her mother's cancer journey, inspired her to focus on cancer support.

Carla discusses her decision to dive deep into the field of cancer support, drawn by the patient-centred model of care she encountered, which integrated various healthcare professionals including naturopaths, oncologists, nurses, dietitians/nutritionists, pastoral carers and psycho-oncology providers. She highlights the pivotal role McGrath Nurses, Oncologists, Haematologists, General Practitioners and collaborations with organisations like the Breast Cancer Network of Australia and the McGrath Foundation played in shaping her journey.

Throughout her career, Carla has been deeply influenced by the patients she has cared for, mentioning individuals like Judy, Sharon and Di, who continue to inspire her dedication to improving cancer care.

Carla emphasises the importance of tailoring care to each individual's needs and desires, advocating for a holistic approach that considers not only supplements but also lifestyle factors such as diet, movement, sleep and social connections. She encourages listeners to embrace the concept of prospering - flourishing physically, mentally and emotionally.

Key Points:

• Carla's journey from general practice to specialising in Integrative Oncology.
• The role of various healthcare professionals and organisations in shaping Carla's approach to cancer care.
• The inspirational patients who have motivated Carla's dedication to cancer support.
• The importance of personalised, holistic care focusing on lifestyle factors for optimal well-being.
• Embracing the concept of prospering and thriving physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she discusses side effects and explores evidence-based complementary medicine approaches to combat them, empowering listeners to optimise their cancer care journey.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

In this episode of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla delves into the concept of the "Hallmarks of Cancer," as elucidated by Hanahan and Weinberg in their series of seminal papers published between 2000 and 2022. She discusses the various hallmarks or drivers of cancer, including genetic instability, sustained proliferation and evasion of growth suppressors.

Carla explains the significance of the tumour microenvironment, a complex ecosystem surrounding a tumour that influences its growth and invasion into healthy tissues. She explores how mutual interactions between cancer cells and components of the tumour microenvironment impact treatment resistance and prognosis.

The episode highlights factors considered in cancer care, such as immunogenicity, inflammatory diseases, metabolic state, environmental exposures and lifestyle factors. Carla emphasizes the importance of understanding how herbal medicines, nutritional therapies and dietary/lifestyle choices can impact the hallmarks of cancer and support patients safely and effectively. Listeners are encouraged to explore the references provided.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she shares her journey supporting patients with cancer and introduces some remarkable individuals she's met along the way.

References:

1. Hanahan D, Weinberg RA. The hallmarks of cancer. Cell. 2000 Jan 7;100(1):57-70. doi: 10.1016/s0092-8674(00)81683-9. PMID: 21376230.
2. Hanahan D, Weinberg RA. Hallmarks of cancer: the next generation. Cell. 2011 Mar 4;144(5):646-74. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2011.02.013. PMID: 21376230
3. Hanahan D. Hallmarks of Cancer: New Dimensions. Cancer Discov. 2022 Jan;12(1):31-46. doi: 10.1158/2159-8290.CD-21-1059. PMID: 35022204.
4. Chen KL, Jung P, Kulkoyluoglu-Cotul E, Liguori C, Lumibao J, Mazewski C, Ranard K, Rowles JL 3rd, Wang Y, Xue L, Madak-Erdogan Z. Impact of Diet and Nutrition on Cancer Hallmarks. J Cancer Prev Curr Res. 2017;7(4):240. doi: 10.15406/jcpcr.2017.07.00240. Epub 2017 Feb 17. PMID: 30581989; PMCID: PMC6301051.
5. Sameri S, Mohammadi C, Mehrabani M, Najafi R. Targeting the hallmarks of cancer: the effects of silibinin on proliferation, cell death, angiogenesis, and migration in colorectal cancer. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2021 May 31;21(1):160. doi: 10.1186/s12906-021-03330-1. PMID: 34059044; PMCID: PMC8168007.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

In this inaugural episode of PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE, Carla Wrenn, a Naturopath, Nutritionist, and Functional Medicine Practitioner, provides an overview of her approach to cancer care. She outlines her aim to help individuals with cancer feel as well as possible during all stages from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond, to support their overall health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Carla emphasises her evidence-based approach and discusses the principles of Integrative Oncology, including daily symptom management, reducing treatment side effects and maximising treatment results. She also highlights the importance of supporting recovery, reducing the risk of cancer recurrence, and improving quality of life through education on diet and lifestyle factors.

Key Strategies:

1. Minimise Treatment Side Effects: Carla focuses on using personalised, evidence-based natural medicine and lifestyle strategies to reduce treatment side effects.
2. Chemoprevention: She explains the concept of chemoprevention and how researched supplements may help to address cancer growth factors and reduce progression risks.
3. Address Co-morbidities: Carla identifies and addresses any other health conditions that could impact a patient's cancer outcome.
4. Education: She provides education on diet and lifestyle modifications to support overall health and wellbeing.

Carla discusses her thorough approach to patient assessments, which includes reviewing medical history, pathology reports, lifestyle factors and more. She emphasises the importance of understanding each patient's unique needs and preferences, even if it means referring them to other professionals or services.

Finally, Carla introduces the concept of a Care Plan, personalised to each patient's goals and current needs, which includes evidence-based supplements and lifestyle strategies for managing side effects and supporting overall health.

Next Episode Preview: Join Carla in the next episode as she delves into the fascinating evidence base behind "The Hallmarks of Cancer," which informs much of her approach to cancer care.

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.

Welcome to the official trailer for the PROSPER Cancer CARE Podcast with Carla Wrenn.

This podcast explores the evolving world of integrative oncology, naturopathic cancer care, lifestyle medicine and evidence-based complementary medicine. With a strong focus on empowering people to feel informed, supported and hopeful throughout their cancer journey.

Whether you are:

• living with cancer,
• supporting a loved one,
• navigating survivorship,
• newly diagnosed,
• or a healthcare professional with an interest in integrative and complementary cancer care…

…you are warmly welcome here.

Through thoughtful conversations, education and clinical insights, we will explore topics including:

• integrative oncology support
• the microbiome and cancer care
• nutrition during treatment and recovery
• stress, sleep and nervous system support
• evidence-based herbs and nutraceuticals
• lifestyle medicine strategies
• personalised supportive care
• survivorship and long-term wellness
• emerging research in complementary medicine

At the heart of this podcast is the word PROSPER.

To prosper means:
to flourish physically, grow strong and healthy, to thrive and succeed.

These words reflect the philosophy behind this podcast and the work Carla brings to patients, practitioners and families every day. By combining compassion, education, evidence-informed care and whole-person support.

This is a space grounded in hope, empowerment and meaningful conversations around healthCARE, healing and quality of life.

Subscribe now and join us as we explore what it means to truly PROSPER through natural and integrative cancer care.

Learn more:
PROSPER Cancer CARE
Carla Wrenn
Peninsula Herbal Dispensary & Naturopathic Clinic

Follow on Instagram:
@prosper.cancer.care
@carlawrenn
@peninsulaherbaldispensary

Find PROSPER Natural Cancer CARE on Instagram @prosper.cancer.care or visit www.prospercancercare.co.

For more information or to get in touch, connect with Carla on Instagram @carlawrenn or visit www.carlawrenn.com.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended to be informational only and represents the opinion of the participants, but not necessarily their workplace. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and does not take the place of advice from a qualified health care practitioner in a clinical setting. Please check with your healthcare practitioner before embarking upon any of the treatments or lifestyle changes discussed.