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Ways to Minimize Side Effects from Cancer Treatment

Ways to Minimize Side Effects from Cancer Treatment

Ways to Minimize Side Effects from Cancer Treatment Because of advances in cancer treatment, more and more people can expect to reach remission or to live a long life with cancer. This is wonderful news! However, going through cancer treatment often isn’t easy. Cancer medications and radiation treatments can cause a variety of side effects that can be difficult to deal with. Here are some things you can do at home or with the help of your doctor to minimize side effects from cancer treatment. Appetite Loss. People being treated for cancer often don’t feel hungry. But when you don’t get...

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Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Power of the Immune System to Fight Cancer

Cancer Immunotherapy: Harnessing the Power of the Immune System to Fight Cancer

In recent years, cancer immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach in the field of oncology, revolutionizing the way we think about cancer treatment. By leveraging the body's own immune system, this innovative therapeutic strategy has shown remarkable potential in the fight against cancer. Let’s delve into the realm of cancer immunotherapy, exploring how it works, its effectiveness, and some of the most significant advancements in this field over the past decade. What is Immunotherapy? Cancer immunotherapy encompasses a diverse range of treatments designed to stimulate...

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Prostate Cancer Risks, Signs, Symptoms and Screening

Prostate Cancer Risks, Signs, Symptoms and Screening

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men after skin cancer. One in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Learning the facts about the risk factors, screenings, and symptoms can help you understand your risks and create a personal medical plan. Risk Factors of Prostate Cancer Prostate cancer typically has nothing to do with your lifestyle or personal habits. However, there are certain indicators that could signal you are at an increased risk of getting the disease. If you have a combination of risk factors, your doctor may...

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Clinical Trials for Cancer Patients: What You Need to Know

Clinical Trials for Cancer Patients: What You Need to Know

Cancer is a complex and challenging disease that requires continuous research to develop new treatments and improve patient outcomes. Clinical trials play a crucial role in this process as they provide a way to test the safety and effectiveness of new cancer therapies. Clinical trials also offer hope to patients and families who are dealing with this disease. If you are considering taking part in a cancer clinical trial, here are some things you should know. What are clinical trials? Clinical trials are research studies that involve human participants to evaluate new treatments, drugs,...

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Summer Travel with Cancer

Summer Travel with Cancer

Many patients worry about cancer getting in the way of daily life, which may include their summer vacation or travel plans. Initially, yes, a cancer diagnosis can put certain things on hold – but in most cases, it’s only temporary. Once your cancer treatment plan is in place, resuming everyday activities often becomes more manageable – even when it involves going on a trip. Traveling with cancer may involve some extra planning, but there are ways to help it be less stressful and more enjoyable. Here are some tips to get you started so you can enjoy the travel season.   Preparing for...

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What are Head and Neck Cancers?

What are Head and Neck Cancers?

April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. Head and neck cancers are a group of different types of cancers that develop in the throat, nose, mouth, sinuses, or larynx. Types of Head and Neck Cancer Head and neck cancers include: Laryngeal and Hypopharyngeal Cancer. Laryngeal cancer develops in the voice box, or larynx. Hypopharyngeal cancer develops in the lower throat. Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer. Oral Cavity cancers occur in the mouth and tongue. Oropharyngeal cancer starts in the middle part of the throat, behind the mouth. Nasopharyngeal Cancer. Nasopharyngeal...

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What is Cancer Survivorship?

What is Cancer Survivorship?

At Arizona Oncology, we understand that cancer impacts every aspect of our patients’ lives, with effects that can last for a long time after initial therapy is completed. Our survivorship nurse practitioner Katy Clarke, FNP answers some common questions about cancer survivorship and our survivorship program. Am I a cancer survivor? If you have been diagnosed with cancer, yes! You are considered a cancer survivor from the day of your diagnosis until the day of your death from any cause. You do not have to wait for a certain number of years, or be considered free of disease, in remission, or...

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How to Tell Your Family and Friends You Have Cancer

How to Tell Your Family and Friends You Have Cancer

When your oncologist gives you a diagnosis of cancer, there are many things that begin to happen. You may need to arrange further doctor’s appointments and tests before your treatment plan begins. You’ll be feeling a lot of emotions and your mind may bounce in different directions. One thing you may wonder is how to tell your family and friends that you have cancer. This is a personal experience for you, and you must do what feels most comfortable to you. Here are some things to consider before talking to friends and family. Who Are You Going to Tell? It’s okay to not tell everyone you know...

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Acupuncture, Massage and Other Touch Therapies for Cancer Patients

Acupuncture, Massage and Other Touch Therapies for Cancer Patients

Cancer patients can greatly benefit from integrative (sometimes called “alternative”) therapies along with their medical treatments. Touch therapies like acupuncture, massage, manual lymphatic drainage, and reflexology can help with side effects of cancer treatment and also reduce pain and stress. It is always important to talk to your doctor about any alternative therapy before starting it, as not all alternative therapies are recommended for all patients. Here is a list of Arizona Oncology Foundation’s approved touch therapies you can discuss with your doctor. Acupuncture Acupuncture is a...

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Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Are You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Incidences of colorectal cancer are rising in people under age 50. That makes it even more important for adults to understand their individual risk and take steps to be screened for colorectal cancer. What is Colorectal Cancer? Colorectal cancer is cancer that develops in the large intestine (colon) or the part of the large intestine that connects to the anus (rectum). Most colorectal cancers begin as polyps—small growths in the lining of the intestine. Polyps, even noncancerous ones, can be removed during a colonoscopy, which is why we say that...

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