David Faleck, MD

People with cancer who are being treated with certain types of immunotherapies are at risk for developing various immune-related side effects. I lead the management of treating these GI complications at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and work closely with oncologists and other medical specialists to treat these side effects effectively while also helping patients to continue their cancer treatments.

I also lead the management of patients with IBD, with a special focus on patients who have or who are at risk for cancer. I work with nurses, oncologists, colorectal surgeons, nutritionists, mental health professionals, and other specialists to optimize care for my patients. I place a special emphasis on preventive care to reduce the risk of IBD-related infections and both GI and non-GI cancers. For high-risk patients having a colonoscopy, I use a technique called chromoendoscopy to improve the chances of seeing precancerous changes in the colon.

I am actively involved in clinical research. I lead several studies at MSK that aim to deepen our understanding of the GI complications of immunotherapy in order to develop safe and effective therapies to treat or even to prevent these side effects. I also help lead a study seeking to identify novel, noninvasive markers of intestinal cancers in people with long-standing IBD.

GI conditions, and IBD in particular, often have a profound impact on a person’s quality of life. Because of their symptoms, people with IBD or IBD-like illnesses may even fear leaving the house and participating in daily activities. I strive to reassure my patients that with appropriate treatment, they can achieve tremendous improvement in their symptoms and regain a meaningful quality of life.

After I meet with patients, I hope they walk away with a sense that I empathize with their condition and have the knowledge and tools to help alleviate their symptoms. I firmly believe that a strong partnership between patients and doctors provides for the best possible outcomes. Together, we can treat their symptoms and disease and improve their quality of life.