I was asked if there was an ‘everything’ test for cancer. Despite bold claims, no such thing exists | Ranjana Srivastava

Olivia Bennett
1 Min Read
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For oncologists like me, it would be a different world if we could accurately detect cancer before it metastasised and reassure patients that early intervention saved lives

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At an academic function, a guest asks what I do and I say, “public hospital doctor”, which seems more benign than “oncologist”. When he asks me to elaborate, his eyes widen as he exclaims, predictably, “Wow, isn’t that depressing?” By now, I have form in explaining that being an oncologist is sobering but not depressing because, in the space between diagnosis and outcome, there is a lot of good one can do – not only through treating the disease but having empathy for the patient.

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Next he asks if “they” will find a cure for cancer. Thinking of all the hard-working (and poorly paid) researchers, I say there is much to celebrate and much more to aspire to. He nods thoughtfully.


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Olivia Bennett (she/her) is a health education specialist and medical writer dedicated to providing clear, evidence-based health information. She holds a strong academic background in public health and clinical sciences, with advanced training from respected institutions in the United States and the United Kingdom.   Bennett earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Michigan. She later completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where she developed a deep interest in preventive care and patient education.   To further strengthen her expertise in global and community health, she obtained a Master of Science in Global Health and Development from the University College London. She also completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Nutrition at the King's College London.   Since completing her studies, Bennett has worked in both clinical and health communication roles, contributing to medical blogs, health platforms, and public awareness campaigns. Her work focuses on translating complex medical research into practical guidance that everyday readers can understand and apply.   In 2021, she began specializing in digital health education, helping online health platforms maintain medically accurate, reader-friendly content. Her key areas of focus include: Preventive healthcare Women’s health Mental health awareness Chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension) Nutrition and lifestyle medicine   Bennett believes that trustworthy health information should be accessible to everyone. Her goal is to empower readers to make informed decisions about their well-being through clear, compassionate, and research-backed guidance.   Outside of her professional work, she enjoys reading medical journals, participating in community wellness initiatives, and mentoring aspiring health writers.
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