Mansoina Baweja, MD

Mansoina Baweja, M.D. received her medical degree from Sri Ramachandra Medical College & Research Institute in Madras, India. She completed her residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center, Michigan, and completed her fellowship in hematology and oncology at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida.

Certified in hematology and medical oncology, Dr. Baweja is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology.

Why she chose to specialize in oncology
I worked as a primary care physician for three years before I realized that oncology was my "calling". The pace of research is very exciting, and I find it challenging to stay abreast of the numerous advances in the field of cancer medicine. At the same time, I have grown personally from my long association with my patients and their incredible ability to cope.

What cancer patients need most
Empathy and support. I encourage patients to eat well, exercise and have fun. Patients need the best possible medical care that is accessible and convenient. They also need to participate in clinical trials or get involved in a support group so they can share experiences with others who are going through the same journey.

A personal approach to patient care
I find it gratifying to the treat the whole person, not the cancer alone. I try to get to know my patients ... the nature of their work, family and friends, and what they like to do. I also spend time educating my patients and explaining different treatment options so they're able to choose the most appropriate plan. Ultimately, I respect the patient's choice and decision because each patient has a unique personality, social situation and philosophy.

The exploding field of cancer treatment 
The field of cancer treatment has exploded with the use of translational medicine and biologic therapies (non-chemotherapeutic agents). We are finding and curing more diseases, and even treating many illnesses as chronic conditions. Supportive medicine is helping more patients to tolerate chemotherapy.  And, patients benefit from personalized medicine where they receive treatment specific to their disease. One treatment doesn't fit or work for everyone because each cancer is different. For example, patients with certain leukemias or lung cancer may take a daily non-chemotherapy pill, while some women with breast cancer and certain lymphomas may be candidates for treatment with antibodies. As a result, patients are being cured more often and enjoying longer, more fulfilling lives. 

The future of cancer care
Personalized treatment and genetic studies will play a key part in the future of cancer care. We're able to study genes within cancer tissue to determine if people need to be treated or not and which medication to use. This area will continue to grow. Equally important are physicians and nurses who specialize in oncology. . .a computer can never take the place of a human who provides individual and compassionate care.