Episode 2 with Ziad Abuhelwa – Cancer Through My Eyes

We are excited to bring you the second episode of Cancer Through My Eyes, our ongoing series on OncoDaily highlighting the personal and professional journeys of oncologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals shaping the future of cancer care.

Behind each breakthrough and clinical advancement are compelling human stories. Through this series, we dive deep into the motivations, experiences, and defining moments that inspire those who dedicate their lives to oncology.

Today, we feature Dr. Ziad Abuhelwa, a Hematology and Medical Oncology Fellow at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. Dr. Abuhelwa’s career is driven by a passion for bridging clinical care with public health principles to ensure equitable and comprehensive treatment for all cancer patients.

His impressive journey spans over 70 peer-reviewed publications on critical topics such as lung cancer, lymphoma, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and colon cancer.

Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Abuhelwa holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Toledo, reflecting his commitment to integrating broader social determinants into patient care.

Dr. Ziad Abuhelwa’s Story

Dr. Ziad Abuhelwa earned his Doctor of Medicine from An-Najah National University in 2017, followed by completing his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Toledo in 2023. During this time, he also pursued a Master of Public Health, positioning him uniquely to address both individual patient needs and systemic challenges in oncology care.

Currently a hematology and medical oncology fellow at Moffitt Cancer Center and affiliated with the University of South Florida’s Morsani College of Medicine, Dr. Abuhelwa actively integrates clinical expertise with public health insights, striving to close gaps in care for underserved populations.

Q/A with Dr. Abuhelwa:

Dr. Abuhelwa’s journey blends clinical medicine with public health, providing him with a unique perspective on cancer care. In this conversation, he shares the personal motivations behind his pursuit of public health, the importance of addressing healthcare disparities, and how multidisciplinary collaboration shapes his approach to treating patients with hematologic and oncologic conditions.

1. Your background includes a Master of Public Health from the University of Toledo. What motivated you to combine public health training with a clinical career in hematology and medical oncology?

My decision to pursue a Master of Public Health was driven by a desire to understand the broader systemic, social, and economic factors that influence patient outcomes. During my clinical training, I realized that excellent care at the bedside is only part of the equation; outcomes are also shaped by access to care, health literacy, socioeconomic disparities, and systemic barriers.

The MPH program at the University of Toledo equipped me with critical skills in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and outcomes research; tools that I now integrate into both patient care and academic inquiry.

In the field of hematology/oncology, where treatments are often complex, resource-intensive, and disproportionately accessed, my public health training enables me to deliver care through a more holistic, equitable, and patient-centered lens. This perspective has also deeply informed my research in cancer care, particularly in studying treatment outcomes and identifying gaps that impact vulnerable populations.

2. Moffitt Cancer Center is known for cutting-edge research and comprehensive patient care. What drew you to pursue your fellowship there, and how has the institution shaped your approach to oncology?

Moffitt Cancer Center’s reputation for innovation, its NCI designation, and its steadfast commitment to both scientific discovery and compassionate, patient-centered care were key factors in my decision to pursue fellowship training there.

My clinical experience at Moffitt has been deeply enriching; exposing me to a diverse and complex array of hematologic and solid malignancies, ranging from common presentations to rare, diagnostically challenging cases. The high acuity setting and diverse patient population, including underserved and minority groups, have enhanced my clinical judgment and broadened my understanding of individualized cancer care.

Beyond the clinical exposure, I have been actively engaged in outcomes-based research, particularly in multiple myeloma, studying post-CAR T-cell therapy outcomes. I have had the opportunity to present my work at national conferences and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. Furthermore, the institution’s strong culture of multidisciplinary collaboration has significantly shaped my approach to oncology.

3. Bringing a public health perspective to cancer care can be transformative. How do you incorporate population health principles into your everyday patient interactions and treatment decisions?

I incorporate public health principles into my clinical practice by always considering the patient’s broader social context such as transportation challenges, financial barriers, language needs, caregiver support, and health literacy. These factors often impact the feasibility of complex treatments like stem cell transplants or CAR T-cell therapy.

I also apply population-level data and outcomes research to guide treatment decisions, especially for underserved populations. My public health training allows me to critically assess clinical guidelines and contribute to research aimed at disparities in care delivery and health outcomes, particularly in hematologic malignancies.

4. Hematology/Oncology is a demanding specialty, both emotionally and intellectually. How do you stay resilient and maintain your sense of empathy when working with patients who often face serious prognoses?

Staying resilient in oncology requires a balance of internal strength and external support. For me, building meaningful, trusting relationships with patients provides a deep sense of purpose and emotional fulfillment.

I intentionally celebrate small victories whether it’s a positive response to therapy or a heartfelt conversation because they remind me of the impact we can make.

Outside of work, I maintain balance through regular exercise, mindfulness, and quality time with loved ones. I also rely on mentorship and peer support within the fellowship to process challenging cases and grow from them. And most importantly, I never lose sight of the human side of oncology; each patient has a unique story, and I consider it a true privilege to walk alongside them in their journey, regardless of the prognosis.

5. Cancer care is rapidly evolving with immunotherapies, targeted treatments, and personalized medicine. Which recent advances in hematology/oncology excite you the most, and why?

I am particularly excited about how cancer treatment, especially in hematologic malignancies, is shifting toward chemotherapy-free approaches. The advancements in cellular therapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy and bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTEs), are transforming the treatment landscape for relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma and lymphoma.

These therapies represent a true paradigm shift, moving beyond traditional cytotoxic regimens toward highly personalized, immune-based strategies that offer new hope for patients with previously limited options.

6. Moffitt Cancer Center places a strong emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration. How have cross-functional teams – radiologists, surgeons, pathologists, and other specialists – enhanced your training experience?

Multidisciplinary collaboration has been one of the most enriching aspects of my fellowship at Moffitt Cancer Center. Working in a truly integrated team environment alongside pathologists, radiologists, surgical oncologists, and radiation oncologists has enhanced my clinical acumen and broadened my perspective. Every complex case benefit from these diverse inputs.

For instance, timely pathology insights often guide diagnostic precision in hematologic malignancies, while surgical and radiation input can be crucial in curative-intent treatments for solid tumors. Participating in tumor boards has taught me the importance of shared decision-making and leveraging collective expertise to deliver the best possible outcomes for patients.

7. Public health often focuses on prevention and early detection. In what ways do you see these areas playing a larger role in shaping the future of hematology/oncology?

Prevention and early detection are key to improving cancer care. Public health efforts, like tobacco control, HPV vaccination, and addressing environmental exposures, are essential in reducing cancer incidence. I believe oncologists of the future will play a more active role in cancer prevention and early detection, working alongside public health professionals to reduce the overall burden of cancer.

Advances in molecular medicine are opening new doors for early intervention. One example is clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), a condition in which certain blood cells acquire genetic mutations that increase the risk of developing blood cancers and cardiovascular disease, even in people who feel healthy and have no symptoms.

Although CHIP testing is not yet part of standard screening guidelines, early identification could help guide preventive strategies, reduce health risks, and improve long-term outcomes.

8. Many aspiring oncologists worry about finding balance amid a challenging workload. What personal strategies or habits have helped you navigate the demands of fellowship while maintaining well-being?

Fellowship is undoubtedly demanding, but I have learned to prioritize time management and self-care. I plan my days intentionally, carving out time for rest, reflection, and activities that keep me balanced. Outside of work, I enjoy working out, biking, playing pickleball, exploring new places, and spending time with friends.

These activities help me recharge and maintain perspective. I also stay grounded through mentorship, peer support, and by staying connected to the reasons I chose this field; the opportunity to impact lives, contribute to meaningful research, and continue growing both personally and professionally.

9. You’ve navigated multiple academic environments. What key lessons or mentorship experiences stand out as pivotal in your professional development?

Each academic environment I have been part of has shaped my growth, but what has had the greatest impact on my development has been the power of mentorship. I have been fortunate to work with mentors who not only guided me clinically and academically, but also took a genuine interest in my personal and professional journey.

One of the most meaningful experiences was when a mentor believed in me at a time when I was still finding my footing. Their support gave me the confidence to take on new challenges, pursue research opportunities, and grow into my clinical identity. That experience taught me that mentorship is more than guidance; it is about being seen, encouraged, and empowered. It is a lesson I carry with me and one that continues to shape how I hope to support others in the future.

10. Looking ahead, what advice would you give to medical students or residents who aim to integrate public health insights into their oncology careers, ensuring a well-rounded approach to both individual patient care and broader community health outcomes?

I would encourage them to view public health as a valuable complement to clinical care. Whether it is understanding healthcare disparities, designing patient-centered interventions, or conducting outcomes research, public health tools can significantly enhance the impact of an oncologist.

Pursuing public health training and seeking mentors who bridge clinical and population health can be impactful. And most importantly, staying curious and compassionate helps build a more equitable and effective approach to cancer care.

Dr. Ziad Abuhelwa exemplifies how combining clinical expertise with public health can transform oncology care, making it more effective, compassionate, and equitable. His journey highlights the importance of understanding each patient within their broader social context and demonstrates how this approach can lead to improved outcomes, especially for underserved populations.

By bridging bedside care and systemic change, Dr. Abuhelwa offers an inspiring model for the next generation of oncologists, one that not only advances science but also ensures that advancements reach those who need them most.

Stay tuned to Cancer Through My Eyes as we continue uncovering the powerful human stories behind oncology, exploring the passion, resilience, and determination of those shaping the future of cancer care.

By Semiramida Nina Markosyan, HBSc.

Read and watch more dialogues and series by OncoDaily.

Episode 1 with Dr. Hadeel Hassan – Cancer Through My Eyes