Meet Charles David Blanke, MD, FACP, FASCO

Jul 14, 2017

Professor of medicine in the Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology at Oregon Health and Science University’s Knight Cancer Institute; chair of SWOG; ASCO Board of Directors member; member of ASCO Ethics and Finance Committees

What led you to oncology?

CB: The patients. I was struck by how people had incurable conditions but still made the most of the time they had. And the science, even back then, was outstanding!

Whats the last book you read? 

CB: Mind Prey, by John Sandford. I love mysteries.

What hobbies do you enjoy?

CB: Swimming, climbing, biking, motorcycling, kayaking, reading, music. Anything with my daughter!

Do you have a personal motto?

CB: Not in so many words, but I believe perseverance always pays off, more than money and brains!

What career could you see yourself in if you werent an oncologist?

CB: My original goal was to be an astronaut. Being diagnosed with type I diabetes didn’t help with that plan.

What changes do you envision for the field in the next 10 years?

CB: Less histology-driven therapy, and more attention paid to end-of-life care.

What would you say to a young physician thinking about entering the field of oncology?

CB: Find a mentor and follow them around to make sure the field is right for you. Make sure your major goal is helping patients however you can, and not gauging success solely by the numbers you cure.

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