In a field defined by rigorous endpoints, complex protocols, and life-altering outcomes, it’s refreshing to see a lighter side of oncology capture the spotlight. That’s exactly what happened when Vivek Subbiah, MD, took to X with a tongue-in-cheek proposal that quickly went viral among oncology professionals.
“Someone has to study the optimal pairing of baklava with coffee or tea. This may be the only RCT I ever do, as PI & enrollment starts immediately Chadi Nabhan, Petros Grivas, Leonidas Platanias, Balazs Halmos, Toni Choueiri.! BTW- Dr. Patrick Patrick Schöffski took us to an amazing coffee shop in Berlin that served the best baklava before taking us on the tunnels, & I can confirm the coffee tasted even better with baklava Jon Trent. “
What followed was a cascade of witty, trial-inspired commentary from some of oncology’s most recognizable names.
Balazs Halmos, MD, added his own clinical-trial twist:
“If you make me the PI, i will achieve complete remissions 100% of the time w NEB (no evidence of baklawa left) guaranteed!”
The conversation didn’t stop there. Wafik S. El-Deiry, MD, PhD, FACP, offered an evidence-informed amendment to the protocol:
“Baklava with tea unless both the baklava and coffee have a scoop of vanilla ice cream.”
Emil Lou added
“This needs to be an adaptive trial design to allow baklavas with and without pistachios and other variables”
In a specialty that carries immense emotional weight, humor like this strengthens collegial bonds. It reminds us that behind every principal investigator, KOL, and guideline author is a person who appreciates good pastry and great company.
Perhaps the true endpoint of this viral “trial” isn’t coffee versus tea, but connection.
Vivek Subbiah: Factors That Can Make Overall Survival Unreliable in Clinical Trials
