Greetings!
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month and each year we become more educated and aware of cancers that affect women. However, many cancers don't show obvious symptoms at their early stages and early detection and screening are important factors in improving cancer survival rates. Please continue reading to learn more: |
Fighting Cancer with Faith, Hope & Early Detection
Did you know that a person's chance for a full recovery from certain cancer diagnosis' is much better if detected early? Regular medical check-ups and screenings, along with certain self-exams, increase the chances of detecting a majority of cancers early, when they are most likely to be successfully treated. And, since the physical signs are not always detectable and the symptoms may not always be obvious (for years ovarian cancer was deemed the silent killer), it is important to increase your awareness and make an appointment with your healthcare provider for these screenings.
According to Todd Lantz, MD of Upstate OBGYN, "Many women think that they no longer need gynecological exams; however, women need to be vigilant in receiving gynecologic screenings, especially if they are experiencing any related symptoms or following menopause when the incidence rate increases. It is important to detect ovarian caner at a stage when the chance of a cure is higher."
Take Control and Reduce Your Risk Here are a few ways for you to take control of your own health and reduce your risk for cancer:
- Stop Smoking
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise
- Eat a balanced diet
- Limit your alcohol intake
- Protect your skin
- Know your medical history
- Have regular check-ups and cancer screening tests
CRiSp at St. Francis The St. Francis Cancer Risk Assessment Program (CRiSP) can help you identify your inherited and early cancer risks, such as ovarian cancer, by looking at your family background and medical history. Individuals with a high risk of developing cancer will have their genetic links researched with specific tests. BRCA is a genetic test to determine your risk of carrying a breast or ovarian cancer gene (it does not test for cancer itself). This test is typically only conducted on those who have a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and sometimes for those who already have one of these diseases. A woman's risk of having breast or ovarian cancer is higher if she has BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene changes.
St. Francis CRiSP is the only program of its kind in the Upstate, offering opportunities for early detection, chemoprevention, and monitoring. Learn more about the program, our Genetic Consultant, and take an online risk assessment by visiting our website.
Leading the Upstate in Cancer Care This year, St. Francis announced a bold vision for the Upstate: to battle cancer with Faith, Hope and Expertise. Since this announcement, the response from patients, families, physicians and the St. Francis family of staff, volunteers and community supporters has been remarkable. Now we are looking to add new treatments, new clinical trials, and potential new facilities to our already world renowned staff of hematologists/oncologists. Learn more about our plans to expand our cancer center by clicking here.
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Join TEAM FAITH!
Fighting Breast Cancer with Faith, Hope & Early Detection
Please join the Bon Secours St. Francis team at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on September 24 to support breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment. All members of TEAM FAITH - whether St. Francis employees, volunteers, friends or family members - share a common goal ... finding a cure for breast cancer!
If you are unable to walk, there are several ways you can help:
- Donate to Team Faith
- Sleep-In for the Cure - Join the team in your jammies! Your registration includes an official Komen Race T-shirt, a special "snooze" bib and a special gift in the mail!
- Tailgate for the Cure - Go Pink at the Game! Rally your friends to support Team Faith on Game Day!
Join TEAM FAITH today!September 24 - Fluor Field
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