Ep. 119 – The PJP Protocol Paradox: Why Prophylactic Antibiotics May Be Creating the Problem They're Trying to Prevent

Thrive Through and Beyond Cancer · Apr 28, 2026 · 25m

In this episode, I dive into one of the most challenging decisions many cancer parents face—how to protect your child from infection without unintentionally causing further harm.

We're talking about PJP (Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia) and the standard use of long-term prophylactic antibiotics during treatment. While the intention is to prevent a serious infection, I explore the growing concern that this approach may be compromising the very immune system it's meant to protect.

Drawing from both research and my personal experience, I unpack what's often not discussed in the oncology setting…