Medical Knowledge

Research Publication

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Pre-menopausal Breast Cancer patients and Osteoporosis

During the summer between M1 and M2 year, I was fortunate enough to conduct research with my longitudinal practice preceptor, Dr. Charles Shapiro. After spending time at the Stefanie Spielman Breast Center I wanted to learn more about the long-term effects of chemotherapy. We decided to explore the effects of chemotherapy on premenopausal patients. Many breast cancer patients undergo chemotherapy-induced ovarian failure which predisposes them to early onset osteoporosis. We researched the current literature and found that there weren’t any standardized algorithms to manage this issue. Therefore our article created a suggested algorithm and emphasized the need to identify one primary doctor who can be responsible for tracking these patients’ risks for osteoporosis during and after chemotherapy. It was a great learning experience and I was amazed by how much I learned during the short summer break!

My research project enhanced my medical knowledge by teaching me more about scientific inquiry and the process behind identifying deficiencies in current medical literature. While breast cancer is one of the most researched cancers in the world, there are still areas that require further information. By reading through current studies on my specific topic I’ve also evaluated and learned more about the contraindications and efficacies of treatments for women undergoing early onset osteoporosis.

As a medical student that is pursuing internal medicine, this knowledge will be helpful when I encounter oncology patients. Though this topic is very specialized, the process of identifying research topics and systematically investigating a subject will be useful for me in whatever area of medicine I choose to pursue. I plan on pursuing research during residency to further this experience in the future.

Sub-Internship Evaluation: Demonstrating Medical Knowledge

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Throughout my medical school training I’ve worked consistently to build up my knowledge base while also learning how to provide great patient care. My sub-internship rotation in general medicine felt like the culmination of all the learning and training I had done throughout my first three years of medical school. I was able to manage patients efficiently, give detailed clear presentations, answer calls or speak with consultants and even find time to attend lectures and check on patients at the end of the day. This was one of the most challenging rotations I’ve had but also the most rewarding and I felt like a true member of the team. This rotation really solidified my interest in internal medicine.

Overall this rotation fulfilled the objective of medical knowledge by practicing patient care daily with pre-rounds where I assessed the patient, reviewed vitals and results while continuing to think about diagnoses and treatment options. I also learned about the social aspect of medical knowledge that involves factoring in patient sleeping and meal times as well as nursing shifts when determining when to administer medications for patients. Finally, I learned how to juggle multiple patients and problems while staying calm and collected!

I have no doubt this competency will be further developed during my residency. 🙂