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Listing of all cancers. Learn about screening, treatment, causes and prevention.

There are many types of cancer treatments. The types of treatment that you receive will depend on the type of cancer you have and how advanced it is.

View cancer and oncology related videos, and slideshows and podcasts. 

Share these inspiring words with a fighter in your life to lift them higher during their cancer journey. 
CANCER TREATMENTS & SUPPORT

Before, During, & After A Diagnosis

There is no way to know for sure if you will have cancer. That’s why it is important to pay attention to your body and know what is normal for you, so you can recognize the warning signs or symptoms of cancer.

You should also see a doctor if you have any other warning signs that last for two weeks or longer and are not normal for you. Symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see a doctor.
  • Prevention: Information on healthy lifestyle choices, like maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, not smoking, and HPV vaccination.
  • Screening: Details on the importance of regular screenings like mammograms, Pap tests, and HPV tests, and when to talk to a doctor about them.
  • Symptoms: Descriptions of potential warning signs, such as a lump in the breast or underarm, unusual vaginal bleeding, or persistent pelvic pain.
  • Risk factors: Information on factors that can increase risk, such as age, family history, and certain medical conditions.
  • Treatment: Overviews of treatment options and how to find resources for support.
  • Free screening programs: How to find local screening programs, particularly for those who are uninsured or have limited income.

Understanding Common Cancer Words

Knowing these cancer terms will help you have better conversations with your treatment team.  When you’re talking to your healthcare team, caregiver or loved ones, you may hear words that you don’t understand. But it’s important to know what these words mean to better understand living with cancer. Here is a list of cancer terms in notecard form, as well as a few blank cards, to print out and bring to your next appointment.

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FAQS

Here are answers to some common questions. 

  • What are the Signs & Symptoms of Breast Cancer?

    • A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area.
    • Changes in the size, shape, or color of the breast.
    • Skin changes like dimpling, redness, or a "peel" texture.
    • Nipple changes, such as flattening, inward turning, or unusual discharge.
    • It's crucial to see a doctor for any new or unusual changes.
  • How is it diagnosed and screened?

    • A mammogram is the first step, but a biopsy may be needed to confirm cancer.
    • Screening recommendations vary, but annual mammograms are often suggested for women ages 45 to 54, with yearly or every-other-year screening for older women, depending on personal factors.
    • Talk to your doctor about the right screening schedule for you, especially if you have risk factors like a family history.
  • What are the risk factors?

    • Family history and genetic mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2.
    • Lifestyle choices such as smoking, alcohol use, and lack of exercise.

  • What are the treatment options available?

    • Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation, and surgery are common treatments.
    • Targeted therapies and other non-chemotherapy options like immunotherapy may also be available. 
  • What are the signs & symptoms of gynecologic cancer?

    • Ovarian: Bloating, pelvic/abdominal pain, feeling full quickly, or frequent urination.
    • Uterine/Cervical: Abnormal bleeding, such as post-menopausal or irregular bleeding.
    • Vaginal/Vulvar: Abnormal bleeding, lumps, ulcers, or pain during intercourse.
  • What are some important questions for your doctor?

    • What type and stage is the cancer?
    • What are the treatment options and their side effects?
    • What are the goals of treatment?
    • How will we know if the treatment is working? 
  • When should I screen for Breast Cancer?

    Mammograms combined with a clinical breast exam are the best way to find breast cancer earlier, when it is easier to treat. Breast cancer screening is recommended for women aged 40 and older as well as women younger than 40 who have a family history of breast cancer., a breast abnormality or related concern.

  • How can I get into a clinical trial?

    To get into a clinical trial, first talk to your doctor about options, then search online databases like ClinicalTrials.gov. If you find a trial, contact the research staff to ask questions and review the eligibility criteria, which include factors like age, disease type, and medical history. Once you and your doctor are comfortable, undergo the screening process, which may lead to the informed consent process where you'll learn about potential risks and benefits. 

  • What is the most common type of gynecologic cancer?

    The most prevalent is uterine cancer. Since 2007, there have been about 60,000 new diagnoses each year. The second is ovarian cancer, with about 20,000 diagnoses per year. The third is cervical cancer, with about 10,000 diagnoses per year. Vulvar and vaginal cancers are the rarest, with about 10,000 diagnoses a year between them. The vast majority of cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancers are HPV-related.

  • Who should consider getting genetic testing?

    Women with a family history of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer or melanoma should consider BRCA genetic testing. Any woman diagnosed with high-grade ovarian cancer should undergo testing. So should anyone younger than 50 when she’s diagnosed with cancer. If you fall into any of these categories, talk to your doctor about whether you should see a genetic counselor.