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In Doctor's Blog

Common Symptoms of Cervical Cancer

In early stages, cervical cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As it progresses, some signs may include:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after intercourse, or after menopause)
  • Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, bloody, or have a strong odor
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse
  • Heavier or longer menstrual periods
  • Lower back or leg pain in more advanced stages
  • Changes in bladder or bowel habits in later stages

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Common Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage of cancer, overall health, and individual patient needs. A personalized care plan is created for each patient.

Surgery

  • Often used for early-stage cervical cancer
  • May include removal of abnormal tissue or a hysterectomy

Radiation Therapy

  • Uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells
  • May be given externally or internally (brachytherapy)
  • Frequently combined with chemotherapy

Chemotherapy

  • Helps enhance the effectiveness of radiation
  • May also be used for advanced or recurrent disease

Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy

  • Used in certain advanced cases
  • Helps the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells

Why Early Detection Matters

When cervical cancer is caught early, treatment is often less invasive and more effective. Routine Pap tests and HPV screenings remain the best tools for prevention and early detection. These screenings can identify abnormal changes before cancer develops.

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In Healthy Lifestyle

Ending the Year with Strength: Survivorship

December is a time of reflection, and for many survivors, it’s a chance to acknowledge how far they’ve come. Survivorship is more than finishing treatment—it’s learning to live well, stay empowered, and continue thriving.

Survivorship Often Includes:

Regular follow-up appointments

Monitoring for recurrence

Managing long-term side effects

Rebuilding routines, strength, and confidence

Emotional, social, and spiritual healing

Your Survivorship Plan Matters

A personalized survivorship plan helps you stay on track—and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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In Healthy Lifestyle

Three Things You Can Do Today for a Healthier Tomorrow.

As the year comes to a close, many of us start thinking about resolutions and fresh starts. But when it comes to your health, you don’t have to wait for January to begin making powerful choices.

December is the perfect time to pause, breathe, and check in with your overall well-being—especially if you’ve been meaning to schedule a screening, follow up on a symptom, or reconnect with your care team.

Three Small Actions That Make a Big Difference

1. Schedule the screening you’ve been putting off.
Early detection saves lives—and a 10-minute call could change yours.

2. Listen to what your body has been telling you.
Unusual fatigue, persistent pain, or changes in appetite shouldn’t be ignored.

3. Reach out for support.
Your care team, friends, and community are here—especially during the holidays.

This Season, Give Yourself Permission to Prioritize You

Whether you’re a patient, survivor, caregiver, or someone wanting to take charge of their health, December offers a meaningful reminder: your health is worth the time, the energy, and the care.

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In Healthy Lifestyle

Caring for Yourself Through the Holidays

The holiday season can be joyful—but for those facing cancer, it can also feel overwhelming. It’s okay to need support, to set boundaries, or to approach the season differently than before.

Ways to Care for Yourself This December

– Say yes only to what feels manageable

– Accept help from people who offer (they mean it!)

– Give yourself permission to create new traditions

– Stay connected with your care team if symptoms or emotions shift

You’re Not Alone

Our team is here—even through the holidays—to support you, answer questions, and coordinate the care you need.

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In Healthy Lifestyle

Coping With Fatigue During Cancer Treatment

Fatigue is one of the most common—and frustrating—side effects of cancer treatment. It’s more than feeling tired; it’s a profound lack of energy that rest alone can’t fix. The good news: there are proven strategies to help.

What Causes Treatment-Related Fatigue?

  • Chemotherapy or radiation effects on healthy cells
  • Anemia
  • Stress or anxiety
  • Sleep disruptions
  • Changes in appetite or nutritional intake

Ways to Manage Fatigue

  • Prioritize rest without oversleeping
  • Stay gently active with walking or stretching
  • Eat small, balanced meals throughout the day
  • Ask for help with daily tasks
  • Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques

If fatigue becomes overwhelming or interrupts daily life, talk with your care team. Sometimes fatigue can indicate anemia or other medical needs that can be treated.

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In Healthy Lifestyle, Nutrition

Nutrition & Immunity During Cancer Treatment

Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining strength and supporting the immune system during cancer treatment. As we enter the colder months, it’s a perfect time to focus on foods that help your body stay resilient.

Immune-Boosting Foods

  • Citrus fruits for vitamin C
  • Leafy greens for antioxidants
  • Lean proteins to support healing
  • Greek yogurt for gut health
  • Nuts and seeds for healthy fats and minerals

Hydration Matters

Dry winter air, medications, and treatment can all increase dehydration risk. Drinking plenty of fluids—water, electrolyte beverages, herbal teas—helps your body manage treatment side effects and maintain energy.

When to Talk With a Nutritionist

If you’re experiencing appetite loss, weight changes, nausea, or difficulty eating, our oncology nutrition team can help design a personalized plan to keep you nourished and supported.

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In Cancer Awareness

Lung Cancer Awareness: Understanding Symptoms & When to Get Checked

November marks National Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing education, encouraging early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Lung cancer can develop quietly, especially in its early stages. While symptoms can vary, some of the most common include:

  • Persistent cough that doesn’t improve
  • Chest pain or shortness of breath
  • Coughing up blood
  • Fatigue or unexplained weight loss
  • Recurrent lung infections

If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider. Early detection saves lives.

Who Should Consider Screening?

Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT (LDCT) is recommended for adults who:

  • Are 50–80 years old
  • Have a 20-pack-year smoking history
  • Currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years

Screening can significantly improve outcomes by detecting cancer earlier, when treatment is most effective.

Our Commitment to Lung Health

Our specialists work together to ensure patients receive comprehensive, compassionate care every step of the way.

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In Cancer Awareness

Follow-Up Care After Breast Cancer

Follow-Up Care After Breast Cancer: What to Expect and Questions to Ask

Completing breast cancer treatment is a huge milestone, but your care doesn’t stop there. Follow-up care helps ensure your recovery stays on track, monitors for recurrence, and supports your overall health and well-being.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Bringing questions to your appointments can help you feel more confident and prepared:

  • How often should I schedule follow-up visits?
  • When should I have my next mammogram or imaging test?
  • What long-term side effects should I watch for?
  • Should I consider genetic counseling or additional screening?
  • What lifestyle changes can help reduce my risk of recurrence?
  • Who should I call if I notice new symptoms between visits?

Follow-up care is an important part of survivorship. It gives you and your care team the chance to stay ahead of potential issues and protect your health for years to come. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—your providers are there to support you every step of the way.

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In Cancer Awareness

Staying Proactive During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is a reminder not just to wear pink, but to take meaningful steps toward protecting your health.

Proactive Health Habits

  • Schedule your annual mammogram if you’re due.
  • Perform regular breast self-exams and report changes promptly.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise, balanced diet, and limited alcohol.
  • Stay informed about your personal and family risk factors.

Community Support

Awareness month is also about supporting one another. Whether by sharing resources, attending community events, or simply reminding loved ones to schedule screenings—you can make a difference.

Awareness is only the beginning. By taking action, we honor survivors and support those in treatment.

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In Cancer Awareness

Breast Cancer Treatment Options

A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but today’s treatment options are more effective and personalized than ever before. The right plan depends on the type, stage, and biology of the cancer, as well as a patient’s overall health and preferences.

Common Treatment Options

  • Surgery: Removal of the tumor through lumpectomy (breast-conserving) or mastectomy.
  • Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells in the breast, chest wall, or lymph nodes.
  • Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill or slow the growth of cancer cells.
  • Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones that fuel certain breast cancers.
  • Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific cancer cell changes, such as HER2-positive cancers.
  • Immunotherapy: Uses the body’s immune system to fight cancer.

Supportive care such as counseling, nutrition guidance, and survivorship programs are also vital to overall healing.

With many treatment options available, patients and providers work together to create personalized plans that offer hope, strength, and better outcomes.