Getting ready for bladder cancer specialist treatment appointments might feel daunting, but when you start to know what to expect, and how to properly prepare, you will begin to feel a little more in control. In this quick guide, we will go over some things you might want to bring along with you or do to prepare for your treatment appointments.

Comfortable Clothes

It is very important that you are dressed comfortably for your treatment appointments. This might include bringing a sweater or a jacket to stay warm. Many people report feeling very cold during treatments, so dress accordingly. You will also want to make sure you wear comfortable shoes that can slip off easily in case you want to take your shoes off during treatment. Bringing along a pair or warm fuzzy socks is also a good idea.

Busy Work or Hobbies

It is also a good idea to bring along something to help keep you busy. Treatments can take a while. The time will pass more quickly if you have something to do. You might want to bring along books to read, puzzles, games, crafts, or anything that you enjoy that you find relaxing.

Journaling Materials

Some people find it very comforting to journal their feelings and experiences during treatment. You might want to journal in a notebook, record your thoughts on a voice recorder, or use a laptop. Your thoughts and feeling concerning your cancer journey may just be for your own use, or you might one day decide to share with others who are going on the same journey.

List of Medications and History

Make a detailed list of all the medications you are currently taking, including prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, and any herbal supplements. This information helps your cancer specialist understand potential interactions between different medications and determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.

Emotional Support (If Needed)

Dealing with cancer can be emotionally challenging, and having a support system is crucial. If possible, bring a trusted family member or friend to your appointment. They can offer comfort, help take notes, and ask questions on your behalf. Additionally, having someone else present can provide an extra set of ears to absorb all the information shared during the appointment.

Bladder cancer specialist treatment appointments can be challenging. By providing comprehensive information and addressing your concerns, you and your cancer specialist can work together to develop a personalized treatment plan and improve your overall cancer care experience. When you feel prepared, it can make the journey much easier. Call us today for more information. We offer cancer patients in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, and Payson a more individualized treatment that can increase the effectiveness of therapies and minimize discomfort experienced during treatment.

Posted July 10, 2023

According to the National Cancer Institute, in 2022, up to 69% of people diagnosed with cancer have lived five or more years since their diagnosis. That number is expected to grow by 30% in 10 years. Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by harnessing the power of the immune system to combat cancer cells. This groundbreaking approach has shown remarkable success in treating various types of cancer and has become a beacon of hope for patients worldwide. The best cancer centers use this treatment option to help fight cancer, but many people have never heard of this treatment. Keep reading to learn more information about immunotherapy.

Understanding Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a form of treatment that stimulates the body’s immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Unlike traditional cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, which directly target cancer cells, immunotherapy enhances the natural ability of the immune system to identify and attack cancerous cells. It utilizes different strategies, including monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, cancer vaccines, and adoptive cell transfer, to activate and empower the immune response against cancer.

How Immunotherapy Works

Immunotherapy works by leveraging the intricate mechanisms of the immune system. Cancer cells can evade detection by the immune system through various mechanisms. Immunotherapy disrupts these evasion tactics and enhances immune recognition of cancer cells. For instance, immune checkpoint inhibitors release the brakes on immune cells, allowing them to mount a robust response against cancer. Monoclonal antibodies can directly target specific proteins on cancer cells, marking them for destruction by immune cells. These approaches effectively unleash the immune system’s power, leading to targeted and long-lasting cancer control.

Immunotherapy Applications

Immunotherapy has demonstrated remarkable success across a range of cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and many more. It can be used by the best cancer centers as a standalone treatment or in combination with other therapies, such as chemotherapy or radiation. Additionally, immunotherapy holds promise for treating blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. Ongoing research aims to expand the applications of immunotherapy, including personalized cancer vaccines, engineered immune cells, and combination therapies tailored to individual patients.

Immunotherapy represents a revolutionary approach to cancer treatment, harnessing the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. Its remarkable efficacy and potential for future advancements offer hope for countless patients worldwide. If you are fighting cancer, you may be put in touch with the best cancer centers in your area. They can help you determine if immunotherapy may be a treatment that is beneficial for you. If you are looking for one of the best cancer centers for your cancer fight, reach out to us today and see how we can help you.

Posted 7/3/23

Blood disorders can turn into life-threatening conditions if they aren’t treated quickly. According to the National Cancer Institute, around 74% of cancer survivors in the U.S. will be 65 and older by 2040. You should consult with a hematologist if you have some form of blood cancer or any other blood disorder. Prepare to receive hematology services with the help of the information in this article.

Clear Out Your Schedule

After examining your current condition, the hematologist may determine that you need a blood transfusion. Blood transfusions can be lengthy procedures that take several hours to complete. Even if you don’t need a transfusion, your hematologist may need to run exams that also take a while to provide results. Therefore, there’s a good chance that your visit to the hematologist may run for a few hours.

If you’re set to receive hematology services on a specific date, clear your schedule for that day. Don’t set any appointments because you cannot be sure how long you’ll have to stay at the doctor’s office. Having a friend or family member who can accompany you home after your lengthy doctor’s appointment would also be ideal.

Prepare a Comprehensive Accounting of Your Medical History and Your Current Symptoms

Your doctor must fully understand your current condition before they can administer any hematology services. Because of that requirement, you should prepare for your appointment by creating a comprehensive accounting of your medical history. Go to your other doctors and ask for your records so you can present the most complete picture possible to your hematologist.

Don’t just focus on what your medical records say. You should also take note of how you are feeling currently. Write down any symptoms you experience and describe them as well as possible. Then, relay your symptoms to your hematologist so they can make an accurate diagnosis.

Continue Taking Your Medication

Lastly, patients scheduled for hematology appointments should continue taking their medication. Neglecting your medication will have an adverse effect on your condition. You may even struggle to make it through your hematology appointment because you avoided taking your medication at the appropriate time. So go ahead and take your medicine and just mention it to your hematologist when the appointment is underway.

Hematology services can help you overcome the medical issues you are currently struggling with. Schedule an appointment with a hematologist as soon as possible so you can receive the treatment you need. Get ready for that appointment by following the tips we detailed here. Contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today if you are looking for an expert hematologist!

Posted June 9, 2023

Were you recently diagnosed with cancer? If so, this is likely a difficult time. The good news is that cancer treatments are evolving and becoming more effective daily. According to the National Cancer Institute, the number of cancer survivors in the United States is expected to grow to 26 million by 2040. You may be exploring different treatment options, including immunotherapy. Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses your body’s immune system to fight cancer. Below are three different types of immunotherapy and the types of cancers for which they are most effective.

1. Checkpoint Inhibitors

Checkpoint inhibitors are a type of immunotherapy that works by blocking proteins on cancer cells that prevent the immune system from attacking them. By blocking these proteins, checkpoint inhibitors can help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. Checkpoint inhibitors are used to treat a variety of cancers, including melanoma, lung cancer, and bladder cancer.

2. CAR T-Cell Therapy

CAR T-cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that involves modifying a patient’s T-cells to target cancer cells better. T-cells are a type of white blood cell that helps the immune system fight infections and diseases. In CAR T-cell therapy, T-cells are extracted from the patient’s blood and genetically modified to produce receptors that target cancer cells. The modified T-cells are then infused back into the patient’s bloodstream, where they can seek out and destroy cancer cells.

Oncolytic Virus Therapy

Oncolytic virus therapy is a type of immunotherapy that uses viruses to attack cancer cells. The viruses used in oncolytic virus therapy are engineered to target and infect cancer cells, causing them to rupture and die. As the cancer cells rupture, they release antigens that can stimulate the immune system to attack other cancer cells. Oncolytic virus therapy is being studied as a potential treatment for several types of cancer, including melanoma and pancreatic cancer.

Immunotherapy is a promising treatment option for cancer patients. By harnessing the immune system’s power, immunotherapy can help fight cancer in a targeted and effective way. Checkpoint inhibitors, CAR T-cell therapy, and oncolytic virus therapy are just a few of the different types of immunotherapy available. We encourage you to contact us if you’re interested in learning more about immunotherapy and whether it’s a good treatment option for you. Our team of experts can provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions about your cancer treatment.

Posted May 1, 2023

Cancer is a common and serious disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, about 39.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes. When facing a life-changing cancer diagnosis, you want to ensure you’re confident with your diagnosis and treatment plan. A second opinion helps you stay confident that you’re getting the best possible treatment and that there are no misses in your diagnosis. This post highlights a few reasons to get a second opinion for cancer diagnosis.

Greater Chance of Correct Diagnosis

Misdiagnosis is quite common in cancer, especially if you were diagnosed with a rare type of cancer. A second opinion can correctly match the first diagnosis, including the type, stage, and treatment options. Seeking a second opinion clears your doubts and helps you focus on the available cancer treatment plan.

Peace of Mind

A cancer diagnosis is scary. You want to ensure that you have that type of cancer and stage. A second opinion can point to an entirely different type or stage of cancer, which changes the treatment plan. If the first diagnosis is confirmed, it may present additional treatment options for you to consider. Confidence and peace of mind are critical when undergoing cancer treatment. Doubts, anxiety, and second-guessing can lead to all kinds of complications.

Up-To-Date Treatment and Technology

A second opinion may reveal additional treatment options for your type of cancer and stage. Cancer treatment options evolve rapidly as researchers find newer, more effective treatments. One hospital may not be better or worse than another, but they might not know about a new treatment option. It can also confirm the best currently available treatment, as some options may lead to faster recovery than others. A second opinion may bring to light this new treatment option.

Informed and Empowered

When you learn about your diagnosis, you’re under no obligation to go with the treatment option you’re offered. By actively seeking a second opinion, you and your family are empowered about your type of cancer and the available choices of treatment.

If you’ve just learned you have cancer, it’s important to start reviewing your next steps to ensure you’re correctly diagnosed and get the best possible treatment option for you. Contact our team at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today to begin your journey toward healing.

Posted April 3, 2023

One of the most common side effects of cancer treatment is nausea. It can be caused by chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and even anesthesia. Nobody likes to feel nauseous during their immunotherapy treatment, especially when trying to get through a cancer diagnosis. Luckily, you can take some easy steps to reduce the amount of nausea that comes with it. Here are some of the best ways to reduce nausea during this time.

1. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential during immunotherapy treatment, especially regarding nausea. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to flush out the toxins in your body that can make you feel more nauseous. In addition, having a full glass of water or a cup of tea to sip throughout the day can help keep your nausea at bay.

2. Eat Small and Frequent Meals

Eating small, frequent meals can provide much-needed energy during immunotherapy. Eating small meals and portions throughout the day helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevents you from feeling overly full or bloated.

3. Avoid Rich and Greasy Foods

Rich and greasy foods aren’t good for the stomach, especially during immunotherapy treatment. They can often worsen nausea, so it’s best to avoid them if possible. Stick to lighter fare such as salads, soups, and steamed vegetables. If you are feeling up for it, having some protein in your diet can help provide a boost of energy and reduce nausea.

4. Get Some Fresh Air

Going outside, even for just a short walk around the block, allows your body to get fresh air. Taking some time to relax in nature can be incredibly soothing. Even if you feel too weak or tired to take a walk, spending some time outdoors can still be beneficial. So if you have a backyard, balcony, or terrace you can use, take some time to sit outside.

5. Distract Yourself

Sometimes, the best way to reduce nausea is to distract yourself. Watching a movie, playing a game, or talking with friends can all help your mind focus on something else and make you forget about nausea. Whatever activity you choose, make sure to keep it light and enjoyable.

Nausea is a common side effect of cancer treatment and some medications but these methods may be able to decrease it. Ask your care team at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists for assistance if your nausea isn’t getting any better.

Posted March 7, 2023

Cancer is a devastating diagnosis, regardless of age. However, one of the most heartbreaking cancer diagnoses is in children. Every year, far too many children and adolescents have to battle cancer. Let’s gain more insight into the statistics of these diagnoses.

Yearly Diagnosis

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), an estimated 16,850 children and adolescents between 0 and 19 were diagnosed with cancer in 2020. Although cancer is more common among adults, a diagnosis in a child can be especially devastating for parents who have to watch their child go through treatment. The good news is that advances in cancer treatment have enabled many patients, including children, to find successful cancer cures.

Hope for the Future

Despite cancer diagnosis numbers being high each year, there has been a steady decline in cancer-related deaths among children and adolescents. This encouraging news is due to the cancer treatments available; cancer treatment has come a long way, even for children. From radiation therapy to immunotherapies, cancer treatment options are becoming increasingly effective.

Most Common Childhood Cancers

In addition to cancer diagnosis numbers, parents should be aware of the most common cancer types among children. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital states that the most common pediatric cancer diagnoses are acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), brain tumors, and neuroblastoma. Leukemia accounts for almost one-third of cancer diagnoses in children, while brain and other nervous system cancer account for a quarter. Knowing the common cancer types helps parents stay aware of any signs or symptoms that may indicate cancer.

How to Prevent Cancer

One way to prevent childhood cancer is to focus on lifestyle adjustment. This prevention includes healthy eating and engaging them in regular physical activity. Parents should also be aware of their family’s medical history since cancer can have a genetic component. Remember to take your child for regular pediatric care. Overall, prevention is the key to reducing cancer diagnosis numbers annually.

No parent wants to hear that their child has cancer. Improvements in cancer treatment and focusing on prevention strategies can pave the way to fewer cancer diagnoses each year and more successful cures. Children are resilient and can fight cancer, so supporting and providing them with the best cancer treatment is vital. If your family is dealing with this scenario, contact our local staff at Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today for support.

Disclaimer: Palo Verde Cancer Specialists does not treat patients under the age of 18

Posted March 6th, 2023

Getting a cancer diagnosis is not something you want to go through in your lifetime. However, according to BreastCancer.org, around 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. That is 13% of the U.S. female population. This kind of diagnosis is terrifying and can be debilitating. You need to ensure that you find a doctor that can help you through this important time in your life. They should have the right qualifications and be caring and attentive, so you feel like you have someone working with your best interest in mind.

Attentive Staff

If you are getting ready to begin breast cancer treatment, you should make sure you are working with cancer specialists whose entire staff is friendly and attentive. You want to feel cared for the moment you walk in the door. You should even feel the staff members give you their full attention when you are on the phone. Having to deal with a breast cancer diagnosis is stressful. You don’t need unfriendly staff, making the process more difficult.

The Right Qualifications

Any cancer specialists you go to for breast cancer treatment need the proper qualifications and expertise. You need someone who is trained to handle your specific diagnosis. It would be best if you look for a doctor who specializes in breast cancer instead of someone who treats various types of cancer. This will ensure that you get the specialized care that you need.

A Willingness to Help

Undergoing breast cancer treatment requires the attention of cancer specialists willing to help you with whatever you need. You need a doctor devoted to coming up with a plan tailored to your diagnosis. You don’t want to work with someone who makes you feel unheard or undervalued as a patient. Find a doctor who has the willingness to help.

As isolating as breast cancer is, you do not have to suffer through the process alone. You can find a doctor who is willing to help you, has the right qualifications, and has a friendly staff to help make your visits stress-free. If you find all of these things in a doctor, your journey through treatment might seem a little less stressful. Contact Palo Verde Cancer Specialists to help you today.

If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you probably feel stressed and alone. You should know that that is not the case. According to Cancer.gov, it has been reported that the rate of new cancer cases is 442.4 per 100,000 men and women per year. Cancer is terrifying and life-threatening, and dealing with the diagnosis can be isolating. However, you might be able to reach out to the right cancer specialist to help you through your treatment journey. A cancer specialist can help you in more ways than just providing treatment.

Come Up With A Plan

Cancer specialists are trained to help you come up with a plan for treatment that is specially tailored for you and your diagnosis. Not everyone will respond to the same treatments, and although every doctor will have a general starting point to work from based on where your cancer is, they will need to help you develop a plan that works for you as your treatment continues.

Guidance for Relieving Symptoms

Another thing cancer specialists can help with is alleviating some symptoms. Many symptoms come along with cancer and cancer treatments. You will likely be in a lot of discomfort. Your cancer specialist can advise you on how to reduce any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing.

Provide Support

You should seek the help of cancer specialists so that they can provide you with the support that you need. Processing a cancer diagnosis is a huge life event and will probably leave you with a lot of negative feelings to deal with. You can lean on your doctor and know that they are there to support you. They can offer you some wisdom on how to work through your feelings and might even be able to refer you to mental health specialists that can offer you more advanced help.

Going through cancer treatment is not something you should do alone. Finding the right cancer specialist to ensure you have the proper support would be best. You will feel like your doctor has your best interests in mind if you find one that will create a specialized treatment plan for you and keep you going through all the discomfort. Reach out to Palo Verde Cancer Specialists today if you need help.