March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. Through regular screening many colorectal cancers can be prevented or detected early, when it is most treatable. Individuals at average risk of colon cancer should begin regular screening at age 45. Individuals at higher risk should speak to their doctor about getting screened sooner. Experts from Rutgers Cancer Institute discuss colorectal cancer topics such as importance of screening, the rise of the disease in younger people, screening age recommendations, and more. Learn more
Elisa Bandera, MD, PhD, Named Unilever Chair for the Study of Diet and Nutrition in the Prevention of Chronic Disease at Rutgers Cancer Institute
The Rutgers University Board of Governors voted to approve Elisa Bandera, MD, PhD, chief of cancer epidemiology and health outcomes, co-leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, as the Unilever Chair for the Study of Diet and Nutrition in the Prevention of Chronic Disease. Dr. Bandera, who is also a faculty member at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and Rutgers School of Public Health, conducts research focused on the impact of obesity and body composition on breast cancer and ovarian cancer risk, treatment and survival outcomes and survivorship, with an emphasis on cancer health disparities. Learn more
Social Workers Play an Important Role in Cancer Care: March is Social Work Month
Joan Hogan, MSW, LCSW, OSW-C, manager of Social Work Services at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, shares insight on how the dedicated team of oncology social workers at Rutgers Cancer Institute continues to expand in size and scope serving as a key member of each patient’s healthcare team. These compassionate and caring professionals who each have unique specialties help patients and their families effectively cope with the logistical and emotional challenges of cancer and have extensive experience in helping individuals navigate their cancer journey. Learn more
Using a Personalized, Team Approach for Managing Patients with Breast Cancer
At Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and RWJBarnabas Health, experts manage the most complicated breast cancer cases that require careful treatment planning by a team of medical experts. Michele Blackwood, MD, FACS, chief, Section of Breast Surgery at Rutgers Cancer Institute and medical director, Northern Regional Director of Breast Services at RWJBarnabas Health, shares more about why putting patients at the center, treating them in a team approach, personalizing treatment and leveraging the latest scientific advances ensures can help eradicate the disease.
Highlighting Multiple Myeloma: Information and Treatment Options Individuals Should Know
Multiple Myeloma is the second most common blood cancer in the United States, although it is not well known to the general public. Awareness of this disease is key to help increase early detection and improve long-term outcomes. Mansi R. Shah, MD, hematologist/oncologist in the Multiple Myeloma Program at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey and assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, shares critical information, treatment options for patients that help control symptoms, and key future trends about the disease. Learn more
As New Jersey’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey together with RWJBarnabas Health, provides patients access to the most advanced treatment options including complex surgical procedures, sophisticated radiation therapy techniques, innovative clinical trials, immunotherapy, and precision medicine.