Six physicians from across Northside Hospital Cancer Institute gathered March 23 at Northside Hospital Cherokee for a community discussion on “The State of Cancer Care in 2026,” covering cancer screening, treatment and survivorship. The event, presented by Cancer Support Community Atlanta, drew a full audience for an hourlong conversation guided by attendee questions.
The panel featured:
- Dr. Abhinav Reddy, radiation oncologist, Northside Radiation Oncology Consultants
- Dr. Pamela Strickland, breast surgeon, Cherokee Breast Care
- Dr. Angel Brown, pulmonologist, Cherokee Lung & Sleep Specialists
- Dr. Harish Madala, medical oncologist, Atlanta Cancer Care
- Dr. David Meyer, colorectal surgeon, Georgia Colon & Rectal Surgical Associates
- Dr. Yasin (Yasir) Bhanji, urologist, Georgia Urology
Screening decisions continue to evolve
Physicians emphasized that screening remains one of the strongest predictors of improved outcomes and should be tailored to individual risk.
“Screening should be a conversation between the patient and physician,” said Dr. Yasir Bhanji.
Panelists highlighted evolving guidance across cancers, including PSA-based prostate screening, low-dose CT scans for lung cancer — even among nonsmokers — colorectal screening starting at age 45, and annual mammograms beginning between ages 40 and 45.
“There are many individuals who never smoked yet still develop lung cancer,” said Dr. Angel Brown.
Precision treatment expands options
Radiation oncologist Dr. Abhinav Reddy said radiation may be used as a primary, postoperative or palliative treatment, often earlier in care plans than patients expect. Medical oncologist Dr. Harish Madala highlighted the growing role of genomics, targeted therapies and immunotherapy.
“Immunotherapy has transformed cancer treatment,” he said, noting that research continues to expand treatment pathways and combinations as scientists learn more about tumor biology.
Support remains a critical part of care
Christy Andrews, executive director of Cancer Support Community Atlanta, said the event reflects a commitment to ensuring patients and caregivers have access to trusted information and community support.
“At Cancer Support Community Atlanta, we believe no one should face cancer alone,” Andrews said. “This panel gives people the chance to hear directly from experts, ask candid questions and walk away feeling more informed and supported. We’re grateful to Northside Hospital and to the physicians who shared their time with the community.”
Cancer Support Community Atlanta offers free programs, including support groups, education, yoga, tai chi and cooking demonstrations.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY ATLANTA.
LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL CANCER INSTITUTE.
