Komal Jhaveri, MD, FACP

When patients first meet with me, I take time to address their concerns about their diagnosis and answer their questions regarding treatment and prognosis. I try to lessen their anxiety and earn their trust so they feel comfortable in my presence. It is important to me that patients know they are in good hands with me, and with their experienced clinical care team, which includes a registered nurse, a nurse practitioner, or a physician assistant. When needed, I also refer patients to a social worker, a support group, and/or integrative medicine services. These resources can help patients cope and improve their overall wellbeing.

Some people may wonder if they did something wrong or are somehow responsible for developing cancer, but I reassure them that it is not their fault. Whether a person has early-stage disease or their cancer has metastasized (spread), I help them focus on what we can do and encourage them with information about research developments and new treatment options that may benefit them. We talk about exciting advances in the field that have led to our ability to cure patients, achieve long-term remissions, and prolong survival while maintaining quality of life, even for those with late-stage disease. In instances when patients are not able to receive treatment or do not wish to pursue therapy, I help them navigate those decisions.

Medical oncology is a unique subspecialty because it allows doctors and patients to cultivate close relationships and, in most cases, requires continuity of care. I chose this field not only because I wanted to understand the science and biology behind what drives cancer while working to find a cure or ways to improve patient outcomes, but also to develop long-term relationships with patients and their families. Patients let me into the most intimate aspects of their lives; I am privileged to be able to celebrate their happy moments and, in other instances, to guide them and their loved ones through very difficult times.

At MSK, I conduct translational research in collaboration with my laboratory colleagues to shepherd our findings from the lab to the clinic. Through my research, I aim to accelerate the development of new treatments and improve outcomes for people with breast cancer. Our latest work involves the use of acquired biospecimen (cell-free DNA and tumor) analyses and imaging studies to identify and understand biomarkers indicating response or resistance to breast cancer treatment.

As the section head for the Endocrine Therapy Research Program, I manage the clinical trial portfolio for hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative/low breast cancer. I am currently involved with trials evaluating novel PI3K inhibitors, new endocrine drugs used alone or in combination with other drugs, and antibody drug conjugates, among other investigational therapies. I also serve as the Clinical Director for the Early Drug Development Service. This work positions me as the principal investigator for many exciting phase 1 trials led by this service.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling and playing board games with my family. I also like to relax by participating in my book club and stay active by skiing, dancing, and playing tennis.