TLDR;
This video highlights the critical role of natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells in fighting cancer, contrasting this with the common focus in oncology on red blood cells, platelets, and neutrophils, which do not directly combat cancer. It points out that while standard blood tests (CBC) include lymphocytes, which encompass NK cells and T-cells, oncologists often overlook these crucial immune cells in cancer treatment.
- Natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells are key in killing cancer cells.
- Standard cancer treatments often focus on managing red blood cells, platelets, and neutrophils, which do not directly cure cancer.
- Lymphocytes, which include NK cells and T-cells, are often overlooked in standard blood tests (CBC) by oncologists.
Introduction [0:00]
The video starts by emphasising that natural killer (NK) cells are the most important cells for killing cancer. It claims that the vast majority of oncologists do not pay attention to these cells. The video challenges viewers to call oncologists or primary care physicians to ask if they consider lymphocytes, which include NK cells and T-cells, during a complete blood count (CBC).
Complete Blood Count (CBC) [0:22]
The speaker explains that a complete blood count (CBC) is a standard blood test that checks for various components in the blood, such as red blood cells, platelets, and neutrophils. These are monitored during cancer treatment to manage side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. For example, red blood cell levels are checked to prevent anaemia, platelet levels to prevent bleeding, and neutrophil levels to prevent infections like neutropenic fever. Drugs like Epogen and Neupogen are used to address deficiencies in these blood components.
The Importance of Natural Killer Cells and T-cells [0:54]
The speaker stresses that while managing red blood cells, platelets, and neutrophils is important for supportive care, these cells do not directly kill cancer. The cells that are crucial for fighting cancer are natural killer (NK) cells and T-cells, which are types of lymphocytes. These are included in the CBC, but the speaker claims that oncologists often do not pay attention to the lymphocyte count, despite their critical role in combating cancer. The video reiterates that the focus should be on these cells that actively kill cancer.
