All Things Cancer Episode #15: We’re Drowning in Cancer Data And Still Missing Cures
In the latest episode of All Things Cancer, Dr. Sujuan Ba sits down with Dr. Anna Barker, one of the most influential architects of modern cancer research, for a wide-ranging conversation about where the field is headed and what’s standing in the way of real progress.
At the heart of the discussion is a simple but uncomfortable truth: cancer research has more data than ever before, but we are not fully equipped to use it. Advances in genomics, imaging, clinical records, and multi-omics have created a data tsunami, yet gaps in data quality, standardization, and analytical expertise continue to slow discovery.
Dr. Barker emphasizes that artificial intelligence has enormous potential in cancer research, but only if it is built on high-quality, well-contextualized data. AI is not a shortcut or a silver bullet. In the near term, it may be better at predicting toxicity than treatment efficacy, and it won’t instantly make drug development cheaper. But over time, AI could fundamentally change how trials are designed, how drugs are screened, and how care reaches patients, especially those in underserved communities.
Another major theme is convergence. Dr. Barker argues that siloed science no longer works. The future of cancer research depends on bringing together biologists, clinicians, data scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and entrepreneurs into shared knowledge networks. This collaborative approach powered major breakthroughs like The Cancer Genome Atlas and GBM AGILE, and she believes it is the only model capable of handling the complexity of cancer today.
The conversation also touches on funding and structure. Traditional government and academic funding models are not well-suited for platform-building, integrative science. Dr. Barker points to nonprofits as uniquely positioned to take early risks, convene diverse stakeholders, and build the shared infrastructure needed to move the field forward.
Ultimately, the episode frames this moment as both urgent and an opportunity. Cancer research is at an inflection point. With the right data, the right questions, and the willingness to rethink how science is done, the next era of progress is within reach.
Sign-up to Be Informed When the Next Episode Comes Out!
About All Things Cancer
Each episode of All Things Cancer will spotlight the most pressing topics in oncology, from cutting-edge treatments and emerging research to personal stories of resilience and hope. More than just a podcast, it’s a platform for raising awareness, advancing cancer education, and fostering a global community of support and collaboration.
Hosted by NFCR CEO, Sujuan Ba, Ph.D., this compelling series will bring together the entire ecosystem of cancer research—including leading scientists, oncologists, doctors, patient advocates, caregivers, biotech innovators, and survivors—for powerful discussions on the breakthroughs shaping the future of cancer research, treatment, and care.
All Things Cancer is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, with new episodes released biweekly.
Subscribe now to stay up to date on the latest episodes and join the conversation that’s shaping the future of cancer research. Cancer impacts everyone—whether you’re a patient, caregiver, advocate, or researcher, this podcast delivers invaluable insights from those on the frontlines of the fight against it.
