Junaid Arshad, MD, MS: Committed to Gastrointestinal cancer care
While colorectal cancer offers a complex challenge to those dedicated to improving patient outcomes, Dr. Arshad is up to the difficult task.
“I became a gastrointestinal oncologist because I was drawn to the diverse and complex pathophysiology of GI cancers,” said Junaid Arshad, MD, University of Arizona Cancer Center member and assistant professor in the U of A College of Medicine –Tucson. “Seeing the resilience of these patients facing these challenges, I was motivated to pursue a career opportunity where I can contribute to the patient’s care and to the field of science in GI oncology.”
Already committed to GI cancer research, Arshad’s path to Arizona was unexpected. He said he was driving through Arizona on his way to California, when he was charmed by the scenery of Tucson.
“It's nothing compared to what I thought,” said Arshad. “It's a combination of these beautiful sceneries and the size of the town and lovely people. And it coupled with an available opportunity in the field of GI oncology, which worked perfectly well for me.”
Junaid Arshad, MD, MS, speaks during the 2024 Cholangiocarcinoma Regional Symposium.
Addressing health disparities
Making Tucson his home, Arshad welcomed the challenge of minimizing the impact of GI cancers. One formidable challenge in Arizona is the presence of the Helicobacter pylori infection, known as H.pylori bacteria, which is an infection in the stomach and causes inflammation of the stomach lining. If this infection goes untreated for a prolonged period of time, it can lead to stomach cancers, making early detection essential.
While the complexities begin with biological challenges, the difficulties do not stop there. Throughout his time here, Arshad said he observed a disproportionately higher number of H.pylori bacteria in the Hispanic and Native American populations in Southern Arizona. He believes this disparity is linked to poor socioeconomic status and access to healthcare facilities. In many cases, an H.pylori infection can go unnoticed, leading to a higher risk of stomach cancer in these patients.
“I think by improving the educational awareness among our minority populations and working together with the public healthcare initiatives to increase awareness and literacy, improving the screening methods and providing eradication treatments to these patient populations can effectively help reduce the risk and the disparities in these populations.”
Recent developments in colorectal cancer
In the evolving landscape of colorectal cancer treatment, the intricacies continue to lead researchers like Arshad toward new, more effective methods. A rising trend is the use of immunotherapy as a cutting-edge treatment.
“The key developments in GI cancers are the rise of immunotherapy where certain agents such as immune checkpoint inhibitors are currently used to improve treatment outcomes in certain cancers such as stomach and colorectal cancers,” Arshad said. “Some of the other agents such as anti HER2 treatment options are also currently being used in stomach cancers to improve treatment outcomes.”
Beyond immunotherapy, new technologies like liquid biopsy and biomarker-based treatments are transforming cancer care.
“These advancements are being effectively used in certain patient populations to improve the survival and reduce the toxicity,” said Arshad. “I think these novel treatment targeted agents are changing the landscape of oncology.”
Research transforming patient care
While staying informed of trends and advancements is vital to his research, Arshad said his research and clinical practices are not completely separate. The contributions he can make in the lives of GI cancer patients is ultimately what drives his work.
“I take a lot of pride in taking care of my patients, and I personally think that some of my best research ideas come from treating my patients,” said Arshad. “Identifying and treating patients in the areas of unmet need and dealing with the real-world challenges faced by these patient populations can lead to some of the best clinical trials. Based on these research findings, we can implement certain treatment strategies for our patients.”
Aaron Scott, MD, left, and Junaid Arshad, MD, MS, speak on a panel during the 2024 Cholangiocarcinoma Regional Symposium.
With so many moving parts in a constantly evolving landscape, a collaborative mindset is needed for a team science approach.
“There is a famous saying, ‘If you want to walk fast, walk alone. If you want to walk far, walk together.’ This principle applies in oncology,” said Arshad. “Several specialties work together, such as surgical oncology, pathology, data scientists--all working together in a multidisciplinary fashion to lead to more problem solving and comprehensive clinical trials, studies and breakthroughs.”
By embracing the challenges of GI oncology, Arshad continues to aid in the advancement of the field. His commitment to research, patient care, and innovative treatments aids in the UACC mission to alleviate the burden of cancer in Arizona, particularly in underserved populations, including Hispanics and Native Americans.