An interview with Dr. Mudresh Mehta, Oncologist/Hematologist with SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital.
Cancer is a major public health problem worldwide and remains the second leading cause of death in the United States. The promising news is that in the last decade, cancer death rates have steadily decreased due to the introduction of better screening techniques. Dr. Mudresh Mehta, an oncologist and hematologist with SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancers, as well as hematological (blood) conditions. After graduating from Mercer University School of Medicine, he completed his residency and
fellowship at Saint Louis University.
Q You believe that early detection is critical?
A Screenings are extremely important and the best way to prevent or catch cancer early. It’s very important to talk to your primary care provider and stay up-to-date on your screening tests. Early detection of certain cancers allows us to surgically remove or radiate the cancer, and potentially avoid chemotherapy.
Q What drew you into this field of hematology/oncology?
A The way in which cancer changes and grows unrestricted, trying to outsmart our treatments, and outsmart the body, really fascinated me. Ultimately, it was the long- term relationships I get to build with my patients as an oncologist that drew me into this field.
Q You must be thankful that your patients are able to receive all the screenings currently available on the St. Mary’s Hospital campus.
A Yes, it’s great that we offer screenings here. In addition, November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and SSM Health offers a very helpful health risk assessment online to pre-screen for lung cancer. Our rule of thumb is that if you are ages 55-77 and are either a current smoker or have quit smoking in the last 15 years, testing should be considered. If you fit into the category of someone who should undergo screening, please talk with your primary care provider about the risks and benefits of screening. They will ask some additional questions to see if you qualify for screening.
Q Tell us why you chose to make St. Louis your home and where you practice.
A I loved the fact that during my residency at Saint Louis University, I met people from all walks of life. I also met my wife who is from St. Louis and decided it’s a great place to practice and a great place to live.
Q What about your job gives you the most satisfaction?
A Patients who have cancer can develop a very close relationship with their oncologist. You get to know your patients and their families for a long time and really form a bond -- knowing that I might play a role in their recovery is the most rewarding part of my job.
To take a lung cancer health risk assessment, visit ssmhealth.com/LungCancerHRA.
Mudresh Mehta, MD
6400 Clayton Road, Suite 302
St. Louis, MO 63117
314-645-3370
ssmhealth.com