Cancer.Net Features

Catheters and Ports in Cancer Treatment

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

There are many different ways chemotherapy (the use of drugs to kill cancer cells) and other drugs to treat the cancer and manage the symptoms can be given to a person with cancer. One of the most common ways is intravenously, meaning the drug goes into a vein. Veins used in intravenous (IV) therapy can be in the arms, neck, or chest.

When Caregiving Ends

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A caregiver plays an important role in supporting a person with cancer, providing physical, emotional, and practical care on a daily or as-needed basis. Providing this support can become a caregiver’s sole focus, especially when a family member or friend is undergoing a long treatment plan.

ASCO Expert Corner: Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

You may have seen tests advertised on the Internet or elsewhere that can be used to check your risk for specific diseases, including cancer, at home. These tests are called direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic tests. ASCO recently updated its 2003 recommendations for genetic testing to include information on DTC testing, as well as to provide advice to doctors and patients on some of the newer technologies becoming available for cancer screening. To learn about these tests and how to talk with your doctor about genetic testing, Cancer.Net talked with Kenneth Offit, MD, MPH.

Seven Steps for a Healthier New Year

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The beginning of a new year is the perfect time to take control of your health and develop a strategy that will help you reach your goals for the coming year. Here are seven tips to help you have a healthier and happier new year.

Traveling With Cancer

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Traveling, especially during the holiday season, can sometimes seem overwhelming to a person living with cancer. In addition to the usual holiday travel headaches, there are also important health issues to consider before leaving town.

H1N1 Flu Facts for People With Cancer

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The new strain of influenza virus, or the “flu,” called H1N1 (formerly called the “swine flu”) can be dangerous for some people. People with cancer and cancer survivors should talk with their doctor about getting vaccinations for both the H1N1 and seasonal flu. Read more on what to know about H1N1.

Coping During the Holidays: Common Questions

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

People with cancer and their families and friends often approach the holidays with a mixture of conflicting feelings: excitement, worry, hope, exhaustion, and happiness. Here are some common questions asked during the holidays, along with helpful suggestions.

Coping With Cancer-Related Fatigue

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Fatigue is a common symptom in people with cancer that causes a lack of energy for many usual activities. Most people receiving cancer treatment experience fatigue, and some cancer survivors have fatigue for months and even years after treatment.

Top Cancer Advances in 2009

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Editors from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) explain the biggest research advances this year in the report, Clinical Cancer Advances 2009: Major Research Advances in Cancer Treatment, Prevention, and Screening.

How to Protect Yourself From Cancer Treatment Fraud

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

When researching treatments, you will likely come across advertisements for products or services that claim to treat or cure cancer. There are several types of such alternative treatments advertised, especially on the Internet. They all claim to help. However, before investing time and money on any of them, it’s important to evaluate the claims carefully, check them out using the resources given in this article, and talk with your doctor.