The threat of cancer remains pervasive, and it cannot be ignored. According to the WHO, cancer caused nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, which translates to around one in every six deaths. Advancements in the medical field are giving local cancer centers and patients a greater chance of overcoming that disease. Still, there is no substitute for early screening and potential detection. Find out why those early cancer screenings are critical by continuing to read below.

Early Cancer Screening Improves a Patient’s Survival Rate

Cancer screening is about saving lives. It does so by detecting the cancer at an early stage. When cancer is caught early, it is often more treatable.

According to the American Cancer Society, screening and associated actions can prevent thousands of additional cancer cases and deaths. Once the screening produces a cause for concern, your doctor can take further action and look for the potentially malignant tumor. If possible, they can also start working to remove that tumor to prevent the cancer from spreading.

This particular disease becomes harder to treat the longer it grows inside a patient’s body. It creates complications that can jeopardize a patient’s health, turning certain treatment methods into non-starters. Give yourself the best chance of survival by visiting local cancer centers for your screening appointments.

Early Cancer Screening Gives You Time to Organize Your Affairs

Treatment must begin right after a person is diagnosed with cancer. Immediate treatment is necessary no matter what stage of cancer you have. However, if the disease is caught early enough, you may have more time to get things in order.

You can speak to your loved ones and give them an idea of what to expect based on your doctor’s comments. If you prefer seeking treatment at specific local cancer centers, you may be able to arrange that as well. Essentially, early cancer detection gives you more control over the situation, and that’s always a good thing.

Early Cancer Screening Can Lead to Less Aggressive Treatment

Carving time out from your busy schedule for cancer screening is also a must because of how it can affect your treatment. If the cancer has already spread throughout your body, your doctor may have no choice other than to use aggressive treatment methods. Those treatment methods can be harder on your body. The less aggressive treatments utilized for early cases are easier to manage.

Early cancer screening can save your life. It can also make treating the disease a less challenging ordeal. Contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today if your screening returns a positive diagnosis. We offer compassionate and effective treatment to all our patients.

Posted 2/21/24

Bad habits can make you more susceptible to the terrible disease known as lung cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, the annual rate of new lung and bronchus cancer cases among men and women was 53.1 per 100,000. Lung cancer is a potential threat you cannot ignore, which is why early screening is so important. In this article, we’ll highlight the updated screening guidelines for cancer. Check out if you’re eligible for screening and schedule lung cancer treatments if you need them.

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Lung Cancer Screening?

According to the American Cancer Society, an individual’s eligibility for lung cancer screening should be based on their age, smoking history, and their pack-years. Let’s begin by touching on the age-related guidelines. The new guidelines indicate that a person should go in for lung cancer screening if they are 50 to 80 years old. Previously, the guidelines indicated that screening should begin at age 55 and continue until an individual reaches age 74.

Smoking history is also an essential consideration for lung cancer screening purposes. In the past, screening was recommended for current smokers and those who quit in the last 15 years. The updated guidelines make you eligible for screening as long as you smoked.

Meanwhile, pack-years account for the number of cigarette packs a smoker consumes daily for a year. If you smoked at least one pack per day for one year, that is considered a full pack-year. Screening is recommended for any individual with at least 20 pack-years. There’s also a chance you may need lung cancer treatments with that kind of smoking history.

There are additional guidelines to keep in mind for those interested in lung screening. Individuals are discouraged from screening if they have life-limiting conditions. Your eligibility for lung cancer treatments is also considered. You should avoid screening if you cannot receive or don’t want to receive those treatments.

Why Is Lung Cancer Screening Important?

Go in for lung cancer screening if you’re eligible because it offers potentially life-saving benefits. According to the American Lung Association, screening can detect around 50% of early lung cancer cases. Without screening, the detection rate for early lung cancer plummets to 25%. Because lung cancer is more curable when it’s caught early, you have an enormous incentive to get your screening done as soon as you are eligible.

Be mindful of the lung cancer screening guidelines detailed here and determine your eligibility. As long as you’re diligent on that front, you have a fighting chance against a lung cancer diagnosis. We can also help you in that battle, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for assistance.

Posted 2/14/24

Cervical cancer used to be one of the most common causes of cancer death for women in the United States. But over the last 30 years, the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths has decreased significantly. This is largely because more women are getting screened regularly, allowing doctors to detect and treat abnormal cell changes before they potentially turn into cancer. However, around 14,000 women still develop cervical cancer every year. So, while screening is critical, there are also some simple lifestyle measures you can take to further reduce your risk of developing cervical cancer.

Stay Up-To-Date on Screening Exams

The most important thing you can do is make sure to get regular screening exams, like the Pap test or HPV test offered by your local cancer treatment center or gynecologist. When detected and treated early, cervical cancer has one of the highest survival rates, with over 90% of women surviving five years or more. Guideline recommendations have changed over the years, so talk to your doctor about what tests you need and how often based on your individual risk factors. Routinely getting screening tests can truly save your life.

Consider Getting the HPV Vaccine

Over 90% of cervical cancer cases are linked to high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is extremely common and often has no symptoms. Getting vaccinated against HPV can massively reduce your future cancer risk. If you’re between ages nine and 26, getting the multi-dose HPV vaccine series is highly recommended by the CDC. But even if you’re older, talk to your local cancer treatment center or primary care provider as the vaccine may still provide protection.

Don’t Smoke and Limit Alcohol Intake

You’ve surely heard that smoking cigarettes is linked to lung cancer and other diseases. However, smoking is also thought to increase cervical cancer risk, especially when combined with an HPV infection. So, if you currently smoke, make quitting a priority to protect your health in many ways. Excessive drinking has also been tied to greater cancer risk, so try to moderate your alcohol intake to safe levels. Every small healthy habit adds up when it comes to cancer prevention.

According to the National Cancer Institute, by 2032, it’s expected that the number of cancer survivors will increase by 24.4%. This is due to the elements mentioned above, as well as the work being done by cancer research and treatment centers. If you’ve already been diagnosed with cervical cancer, a local cancer treatment center can help you get the care you need. Reach out to us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today.

Posted 1/22/24

Cancer can be tough on the body, but more people are not only beating this disease but they are also maintaining a high quality of life. If you or a loved one are fighting lung cancer or are a recent survivor, you may find that your sleep has been disrupted. We’ve outlined some tips below, but if you need further advice, feel free to reach out to us. Day in and day out, we work to provide lung cancer treatment and aid survivors.

Create a Routine and Stick to It

One of the best general tips for getting a good night’s sleep is to set a sleeping schedule and stick to it. This is true for anyone and not just cancer patients. As you develop regular habits, your body should adjust and start to associate specific times with sleeping. This can help you fall and stay asleep.

Adjust Your Sleeping Position

You may find yourself breathless in the night. This is especially common for folks with lung cancer because your lungs may simply not be as strong as they once were. If you sleep on your back or stomach, try sleeping on your side instead. This is often less taxing on your lungs. Using an extra pillow or a thicker pillow may also help.

Consider Taking Melatonin

Melatonin is a naturally occurring chemical that induces sleep. You can take melatonin as a supplement, and it may help you both fall and stay asleep. Melatonin doesn’t interfere with many drugs. However, if you are undergoing lung cancer treatment, it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor before using it.

Unplug From Your Devices

First, electronic devices can be distracting, and they can keep your brain engaged. Second, the light from the devices can also disrupt sleeping patterns and your body’s natural processes. So, try to put away all of your devices at least a half hour before bedtime. If you do need to use a device, see if it offers a night mode, which will change the lighting.

Getting a good night’s sleep can help improve your overall health, which is crucial if you’re fighting cancer. Survivors may need assistance too. According to the National Cancer Institute, the number of cancer survivors in the U.S. is projected to grow to 26.0 million by 2040, so you’re not alone if you’re struggling. If you need more assistance, feel free to contact us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists. We strive to provide the best lung cancer treatment and recovery possible.

Posted 1/12/24

According to the National Cancer Institute, as of January 2022, there are 18.1 million cancer survivors in the United States, and as any cancer survivor will tell you, cancer treatment can be draining. Fortunately, there are a few activities you can do while undergoing local cancer treatment to help make the treatment process a little easier.

Creating Art

Drawing or painting is a great way to express your creative spirit while undergoing local cancer treatment. You can either draw using a sketchbook and pencil or you can bring your iPad or tablet to your appointment and work on your latest project.

Writing

This is another wonderful way to keep your mind feeling sharp. You don’t have to be a professional writer, either. There are so many diverse types of writing; you can chronicle your treatment journey in a journal, write poetry, write fiction, or even write about your favorite sports teams.

Crossword Puzzles

This is a fantastic way to keep your mind sharp and help you learn some things in the process. Grab a book of crossword puzzles. There are ones that are based around entire subjects. Are you a baseball fan? How about astronomy? Pop culture? All these things will keep you busy throughout your treatment.

Watch a Movie

Are there movie classics you haven’t seen before? Have you been waiting to catch up on a popular show? There are many streaming services that offer apps on your phone or tablet, so you can watch movies and TV on the go. This can be a great way to stay entertained during long treatments.

Origami

Origami or other paper crafts are a great way to keep your hands busy while undergoing local cancer treatment. You can learn how to fold a paper crane or create a batch of paper stars. Origami is also great for both beginners and skilled crafters.

Knitting or Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting make for great activities to do during treatment. If you’re new to the craft, you can watch introductory videos on your phone or tablet. The process is repetitive but constructive, which can have a meditative effect that many knitters and crocheters love.

Are you looking for local cancer treatment? Palo Verde Cancer Specialists provides high-quality, compassionate care that you can count on. Whether you’re interested in beginning treatment or looking to switch providers, we have you covered. Contact us today for more information.

Posted 12/11/23

If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you’re not alone. Approximately 39.5% of people will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. A diagnosis can be scary and overwhelming, and the treatment process can sometimes be taxing. Chemotherapy can be especially tiring and often leads to hair loss, which can another emotional toll on you. Fortunately, there are a few key ways to cope with hair loss during your chemotherapy.

1. Give Yourself Time

There’s nothing wrong with initially grieving the loss of your hair. It’s something that you may have taken pride in, especially its appearance. You might be jarred by the sight at first. Remind yourself that this is temporary and that your hair will be growing back after you make your visits to the cancer treatment center.

2. Don’t Lose Sight of Your Identity

Even without your hair, you’re still going to be the same person. Keep that in mind while you’re going to the cancer treatment center. Remember the qualities that make you the unique individual that you are.

3. Cut Your Hair Short Before Treatment

It might be more distressing to see the loss of long hair than short hair. Having a shorter haircut before starting your visits to the cancer treatment center can make the process an easier one.

4. Use a Soft Bristle Hairbrush

During chemotherapy, your hair will be very fragile. Using hairbrushes with hard bristles can damage your hair more. Instead, opt for a soft bristle hairbrush to gently comb through your hair.

5. Build a Strong Support System

Even if you feel okay about losing your hair during chemotherapy, there may be times when you don’t feel okay. Having a strong support system of friends and family you can speak to, or even a therapist, can be a great way to cope during this stressful time.

6. Wear Unique Hair Wraps

Hair wraps are a great way to show off your creativity and personality just like your hair. They come in a wide array of colors and they’re incredibly comfortable.

Going through chemotherapy and hair loss can be a challenging experience even at the best cancer treatment center. The good news is that, with the tips above, you can make coping with your hair loss a little bit easier. If you’re in need of a compassionate cancer treatment center that aims to make your treatment as stress-free as possible, reach out to us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today for more information.

Posted 12/8/23

Abdominal cancer is a serious condition. Fortunately, many people will beat it. It’s important, however, to avoid various foods as they can cause pain, discomfort, and other issues. The right diet as prescribed by local cancer centers can not only improve comfort but also bolster your overall health.

Understanding Dumping Syndrome

One serious issue with abdominal cancer is “dumping syndrome.” Shortly after eating something, your small intestine may draw in a large amount of water to break down food, which can lead to a surge in insulin production and a drop in blood pressure. As a result, you may feel lightheaded. By avoiding certain foods, including those listed below, and eating smaller meals, you may reduce the risks associated with dumping syndrome.

1. Processed Meats

Unfortunately, processed meats, which include bacon, sausage, and many deli meats, can increase the risks of various cancers, including colorectal cancer. These foods can also be bad for your overall health, often being high in salt and not particularly nutritious. As such, you’ll want to reduce if not cut these meats out of your diet.

2. Caffeinated Foods and Drinks

Caffeine can irritate the stomach and cause inflammation. This irritation can be especially painful if you’re suffering or recovering from cancer. Keep in mind that besides sodas and coffee, chocolate and other foods often contain caffeine.

3. Acidic Foods and Drinks

Citrus fruits are often acidic. Your stomach will be especially sensitive when you are dealing with abdominal cancer. Even a bit too much acid can cause serious pain and discomfort. It’s best to enjoy fruits that are less acidic. Carbonated drinks are also acidic and best consumed in moderation under the guidance of local cancer centers.

4. Alcohol

Not only is alcohol linked to some types of cancer, but it can be hard on your body and especially your digestive tract. You should reduce if not eliminate alcohol consumption while battling cancer. Doing so can reduce irritation in your stomach and may help improve your overall health.

Special Considerations for the Elderly

According to the National Cancer Institute, up to 67% of cancer survivors are aged 65 and older. Some foods can be especially hard on the elderly, including drinks with caffeine, grapefruit, and highly processed foods. Folks need to keep their age in mind when recovering from cancer as it may stipulate a more stringent approach.

If you’re struggling with abdominal cancer, it’s important to seek professional advice at local cancer centers. The right steps right now could reduce the risks of complications and improve your prognosis. Feel free to get in touch with us at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for further advice.

Posted 11/13/23

Cancer remains a devastating diagnosis. However, it’s not the medical sentence that it used to be. According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2022, up to 47% of people diagnosed with cancer have lived at least 10 years after being diagnosed. What’s more, there are new advancements in bladder cancer treatments that continue to give patients hope.

What New Treatments Are on the Horizon?

The most common treatments for bladder cancer are chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy, and scientists are continuing to work on targeted therapy to help treat bladder cancer. Targeted therapy gives the body a dose of medication targeting cancer cells directly. This treatment option does far less damage to existing cells than other forms of cancer treatment.

Several studies are determining the most effective treatments. For example, one study looks at people with a variation in genes FGFR2 or FGFR3. Only 20% of bladder cancer patients have this gene, but specific treatments may be effective against the cancer. Other studies are examining the possibility of combination treatments for bladder cancer and are currently in clinical trials.

The Ongoing Research Into Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is an innovative treatment option projected to be available this year in 2023. The FDA approved nadofaragene firadenovec-vncg. When immunotherapy cancer treatments aren’t working as expected, this drug might help. It’s specially designed to be effective on bladder cancer that has not yet reached the muscle, often called non-muscle bladder cancer. Gene therapy is not as invasive as surgery and has fewer side effects than treatments like chemotherapy.

What Are the New Standards Emerging?

Chemotherapy is the standard course of treatment for cancer, including bladder cancer treatments. However, scientists are working to change that. A new drug called enfortumab vedotin has been approved. Scientists saw astounding results in studies. Some people saw their cancer disappear, while others saw their tumors drastically shrink. Many hope treatments like enfortumab vedotin will become the new standard as the first treatment for cancer patients instead of patients having to see whether chemotherapy is effective first.

For years, radiation and chemotherapy were the standard line of treatment for every type of cancer, but new bladder cancer treatments are offering hope for patients. For more information about bladder cancer treatments, don’t hesitate to reach out to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today.

Posted 10/20/23

Prostate cancer is common. Roughly 12.5%, or one out of every eight, of men will get a diagnosis during their lifetime, according to Cancer.org. While it’s not news that they want to hear, if it’s caught early, it can be treatable through the care of a prostate cancer specialist. Here is some more information on prostate cancer.

Risk Factors

The most common risk factor is age. The older a man is, the greater the chance of getting prostate cancer. Some men are at increased risk for prostate cancer. You are at increased risk for getting or dying from prostate cancer if you are African-American or have a family history of prostate cancer.

Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms, including having to urinate a lot, having a weak urine flow, bloody urine, having to urinate multiple times at night, erectile dysfunction, and pain while sitting due to a larger prostate. Some of these can indicate other conditions, so you need to get them diagnosed by a medical professional before going to a prostate cancer specialist.

Prevention

While it can be impossible to completely prevent the possibility of getting prostate cancer, there are things that you can do to improve your odds of avoiding it. This includes taking prescription medicine that was originally designed to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH). You can also change your diet to avoid foods that are high in fat, particularly animal fat. Instead, you can have a lot of vegetables. A sudden change might not be enough, though. You might have to start it early in your life.

Usually, prostate cancer grows slowly, but there are exceptions when it’s more aggressive. If it is caught early, it can be monitored, or you can discuss surgery or radiation. There are also hormonal therapies and chemotherapy. Your prostate cancer specialist will tell you what they think is the best option for you.

Hearing the ‘C” word is a wake-up call, for sure. Fortunately, if you have caught it early, your survival chances are excellent. Working with medical professionals will help you achieve that.

Are you looking for a prostate cancer specialist for you or a loved one? Contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to learn more.

Posted 10/10/23

Welcome to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, where our focus is on you and providing the most advanced and compassionate cancer care available. As a leading local cancer treatment center, we understand that each patient’s journey is unique, and we are committed to empowering our patients through personalized care. In this blog post, we will delve into how Palo Verde Cancer Specialists is transforming the landscape of cancer treatment by emphasizing the importance of individualized care and patient empowerment.

Personalized Care: Putting You First

At Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, we firmly believe that personalized care is the cornerstone of effective cancer treatment. We understand that no two patients are alike, and therefore, a one-size-fits-all approach simply does not work. That’s why our dedicated team of oncologists, nurses, and support staff take the time to get to know each patient, their medical history, and their specific needs. By tailoring treatment plans to each individual, we ensure that our patients receive the most effective and appropriate care for their unique circumstances.

Advanced Technology and Expertise

According to the American Cancer Society, 80% of all cancers in the United States are diagnosed in people 55 years of age or older. As one of the premier local cancer treatment centers, Palo Verde Cancer Specialists is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly skilled medical professionals. We constantly strive to stay at the forefront of advancements in cancer treatment, providing our patients with access to the latest diagnostic tools, therapies, and clinical trials. Our team of experts is dedicated to continually expanding their knowledge and expertise, ensuring that our patients receive the most advanced and effective treatments available.

Empowering Patients on Their Journey

At Palo Verde Cancer Specialists, we recognize that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and the journey toward recovery can be challenging. That’s why we are committed to empowering our patients throughout every step of their treatment. We firmly believe that education and open communication are key to ensuring that our patients feel informed and involved in their care decisions. Our compassionate team takes the time to explain treatment options, answer questions, and address concerns, empowering patients to make informed choices about their treatment and actively participate in their own healing process.

Through our advanced technology, expertise, and compassionate approach, we strive to make a positive difference in the lives of our patients. If you or a loved one are in need of cancer care, we invite you to experience the empowering care that we provide. Together, we can navigate the path to healing and recovery. Call us today for more information.

Posted 8/9/23