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Cancer

Research

Dr. Kristin Rojas Receives Grant to Investigate the Role Opioids May Play in Breast Cancer

Dr. Rojas poses in white coat, smiling at the camera.

Dr. Kristin Rojas has received a $375,000 grant from the National Cancer Institute’s Early-Stage Surgeon Scientist Program to study how perioperative opioids may influence breast cancer progression through the gut microbiome.

Building on previous research by Dr. Sabita Roy, which links opioids to gut microbiome disruption and systemic inflammation, Dr. Rojas aims to explore whether these changes adversely affect hormone-sensitive breast cancer. The study leverages a unique patient division—those receiving more vs. fewer surgical opioids—to examine potential effects on cancer outcomes.

With additional training support and collaboration with Dr. Roy and Dr. Nipun Merchant, Dr. Rojas hopes this project will provide crucial data to inform future NIH grants and lead to interventions preventing opioid-induced cancer risks.

news.med.miami.edu/how-opioids-influence-breast-cancer/

March 13, 2025 by
Advocacy

Dr. Kristin Rojas at Miami Breast Cancer Conference 2025

Dr. Kristin Rojas will be conducting two different talks at the 42nd Annual Miami Breast Cancer Conference® on March 6-9, 2025, in Miami Beach, Florida. This prestigious event gathers oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, geneticists, and other specialists to discuss the latest advancements in breast cancer treatment. For more details, visit the official Miami Breast Cancer Conference® website.

Evidence-based Therapies and Not-So-Magic Cures for Sexual Health Concerns After Breast Cancer: Saturday, March 8th, 2:40 PM

Estrogens and Androgens in Patients With ER+ Breast Cancer: Sunday, March 9th, 9:00 AM

Healthcare providers can register for FREE with the code “ROJAS”.

February 20, 2025 by
Advocacy, For patients

FDA Warning: Ineffectiveness of Vaginal Laser Procedures

Kristin E. Rojas’ article, “The FDA needs to take another look at laser-based ‘vaginal rejuvenation’” (Feb. 22, 2022), discusses concerns regarding the use of laser and energy-based devices marketed for vaginal rejuvenation and related procedures.

The article criticizes the widespread promotion and use of laser-based “vaginal rejuvenation” procedures, arguing they are both ineffective and dangerous. Despite being advertised in medical spas, online, and even some doctors’ offices as treatments for vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, and improved vaginal tightness, these procedures lack rigorous scientific evidence and can cause severe side effects, including burns, scarring, and chronic pain.

Rojas warns that misleading marketing preys on women seeking relief from vaginal discomfort, particularly cancer survivors. Without stronger regulation, more women may suffer unnecessary harm from ineffective and potentially dangerous procedures.

Read the FDA Letters here:

fda-warning-letters-vaginal-lasersDownload

February 16, 2025 by