Cancer Connection Monthly

February 2025

Today is World Cancer Day a day to raise awareness about cancer, encourage prevention, and promote action to reduce the global burden of cancer. This year’s theme is "united by unique". Rutgers Cancer Institute together with RWJBarnabas Health is at the forefront of cancer research, prevention and care. This will be enhanced later this year with the opening of the Jack and Sheryl Morris Cancer Center, the state’s first freestanding cancer hospital, that will address each individual's unique cancer journey with compassion, expertise and advanced treatment options.

New Study Unveils Non-Invasive Gastric Cancer Detection via Oral Microbiome Analysis



Gastric cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the stomach lining. Detecting the disease early can improve outcomes but, currenmethods are often invasive. A new study lead by Haejin In, MD, MPH, MBA, FACS, FSSO, found that the bacteria in our mouths might offer valuable insights. By analyzing mouthwash samples, researchers have identified unique patterns in the oral bacteria of people with gastric cancer and those with early signs of the disease, compared to healthy individuals. Learn more about the findings.

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Harnessing Radiation Therapy: A Breakthrough for Osteoarthritis Relief



Osteoarthritis is a chronic orthopedic condition that involves pain and inflammation of the joints. Symptoms can often worsen during the winter months due to frigid temperatures and changes in atmospheric pressure, both of which can affect joint fluids and tissues. Matthew Deek, MD, a radiation oncologist, says that radiation therapy is not only for treating cancer, and that low-dose radiation therapy is also a proven osteoarthritis treatment that can reduce pain and swelling and improve mobility and overall quality of life.

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The Lifesaving Impact of Blood Donation: Understanding the Benefits



Many people with cancer require blood at some point during their treatment. Blood from generous donors helps with emergency surgeries, needs such as treatments for those who suffer from blood disorders, and enables blood transfusions for those undergoing cancer treatment. Blood donations are currently at an all-time low. Help today by donating blood and platelets at a Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Blood Donor Center.

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Shining Light on Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer




February is Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer Awareness Month. Gallbladder cancer and bile duct cancer are relatively rare forms of cancer. Gallbladder cancer typically starts in the innermost layers of the gallbladder before progressively spreading to the surrounding tissues. Because the gallbladder is a small organ that is mostly hidden by the liver, this type of cancer can be difficult to diagnose. This is why it's critical to understand the signs and risk factors. 

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