CCCNews Podcast: Local Oncologist Highlights Advances in Cancer Care, Stresses Early Screening and Prevention
The Dalles, Ore., April 30, 2026 — Advances in cancer treatment are improving survival rates and quality of life for patients, but new trends — including rising cancer rates among younger people — are reshaping how doctors approach care, a local oncologist said during a recent podcast interview.
Dr. Winnifred Wong, or Winnie, a radiation oncologist and medical director at the Celilo Cancer Center at Adventist Health Columbia Gorge, said one of the most concerning developments is the increase in colorectal cancer among patients under age 50.
“Historically, the first colonoscopy was recommended at age 50. That dropped to 45, and I anticipate it may drop even further,” Wong said, noting younger patients often present with atypical symptoms that can delay diagnosis.
While some cancer trends are troubling, Wong said treatment has improved significantly over the past decade, particularly with the rise of targeted therapies and immunotherapy. These approaches allow doctors to tailor treatments based on a tumor’s genetic profile rather than relying solely on traditional chemotherapy.
She pointed to lung cancer as an example of progress, where patients who once faced a median survival of about 15 months are now living several years with good quality of life due to newer treatments.
“There are patients six, seven, even eight years out now,” Wong said.
Some cancers are increasingly being managed like chronic conditions, with ongoing monitoring and treatment similar to diseases such as diabetes.
She also highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in health care, including tools that help physicians document patient visits more efficiently and identify potential treatment options. However, she noted that human oversight remains essential.
Beyond treatment, Wong emphasized prevention and early detection as critical factors in improving outcomes.
Her top recommendations include avoiding tobacco, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol consumption, and understanding family medical history to guide screening decisions.
“Cancers that are caught earlier often require less treatment and have better outcomes,” she said.
Wong also encouraged patients to advocate for themselves if symptoms persist, especially as cancer presentations evolve in younger populations.
“Get a second opinion if something doesn’t feel right,” she said.
In addition to her clinical work, Wong has become known locally for sharing health information online, including personal experiences aimed at reducing fear around screening procedures.
She said her goal is to make cancer care more approachable while helping patients make informed decisions.
“When patients come into my clinic, they become part of my family,” Wong said. “My job is to give them the information they need — without taking away hope.”
The interview also touched on the emotional weight of oncology work, with Wong describing the importance of balancing honesty with compassion when discussing diagnoses and treatment options.
“It's never my job to take away hope, but I also don’t want to give false hope,” she said.
Wong, who previously served in the U.S. Air Force and has practiced medicine in multiple states, said she values the close-knit nature of The Dalles community and the support of her colleagues.
She described the staff at the Celilo Cancer Center as “one of the best teams” she has worked with, combining clinical expertise with strong patient care.
The full conversation was recorded as part of a CCCNews podcast episode.
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