ASCOconnection.org welcomes new columnist Edward P. Balaban, DO, FACP, FASCO. Dr. Balaban is a community hematologist/oncologist at Heritage Valley Hematology and Medical Oncology, Pennsylvania, and a staff member at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Cancer Clinics. He served ASCO as Editor of both the Journal of Clinical Oncology and Journal of Oncology Practice, a member of the Clinical Practice Committee and Clinical Practice Guideline Committee, a panel member for guidelines on venous thromboembolism and chemotherapy dosing, and Chair of the Guideline Implementation Network (PGIN). Dr. Balaban is Past President of the Pennsylvania Society of Oncology and Hematology and is the alternate delegate representing ASCO at the AMA-House of Delegates.

AC: What drew you to oncology and hematology? 

Dr. Balaban: Frankly, I always thought I would be a cardiologist. I suspect that most of us, at one time or another, are influenced by some event or individual that eventually guides us to any profession. During my medical residency certain individuals and events would lead me to hematology/medical oncology. As a further confession, I really entered the arena wanting to pursue primarily hematology.  Medical oncology at that time was still in its infancy as a discipline. In a real sense, I developed professionally as medical oncology developed as an arena.  It’s been a good and welcomed relationship.

AC: Why do you want to blog for ASCOconnection.org?

Dr. Balaban: I am only recently becoming acquainted with the concept of “social networking.” It seems clear that this is the vehicle that will allow a thought to be captured and printed quickly. Whether it’s because the topics and comments are brief or just because of the sheer popularity of it all; it is also clear that this is the media that tends to capture our attention. I look forward to a growing relationship with ASCO Connection.

AC: What should readers look forward to with your commentary?

Dr. Balaban: I have had the good fortune of being able to participate in a number of ASCO initiatives. I suspect that it will be my experiences with these initiatives that will form the subject of my blogs. These blogs may then include comments about issues such as treatment guidelines, international oncology care, and heath care delivery issues at both the national and state level. The blog itself will deliver what I have experienced mixed with a healthy element of personal comment.

AC: When you’re not working, what are some things you like to do in your free time?

Dr. Balaban: I know it sounds a little crazy but I enjoy “working out.” My free time also includes reading primarily history-focused literature, watching my family develop, and being involved with this profession and its community.