Victor Chang, MD, is an oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal cancers, with a particular focus on colon cancer.
Dr. Chang emphasizes the importance of awareness, noting that increased understanding of colon cancer has led to earlier detection, significantly improving patient survival rates. He advocates for a healthy lifestyle that includes a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, regular screenings, and maintaining a healthy weight to reduce colon cancer risks.
“The awareness of colon cancer in the general and medical communities has led to earlier detection and therefore prevention of colon cancer and improved survival for patients,” he states.
At Yale Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital, Dr. Chang is an active member of the Gastrointestinal Cancers Disease Aligned Research Team. He collaborates with academic leaders in colon cancer, participating in tumor board meetings, research discussions, and seminars. This teamwork enables him to offer his patients the latest treatments and access to clinical trials, genetic counseling, and palliative care options.
Dr. Chang's passion for cancer research began during his undergraduate studies. Now an assistant professor of medicine (medical oncology) at Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Chang believes the future of cancer research lies in cancer genomics, which is helping tailor treatments to individual patients. “Cancer genomics is paving the way for not only diagnosis but also treatment,” he explains.
Dr. Chang says he is excited about immunotherapy, specifically checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the body's immune system to combat cancer. "Our own immune system is turning out to be the most potent tool to fight cancer," he says.
Dr. Chang completed his medical degree, as well as his residency and fellowship training, at Yale School of Medicine.
