Patient access representative supports patients, team during hurricane
As a patient access representative for Lymphoma, Graciela “Grace” Chavez is the first point of contact for many new MD Anderson patients. She handles intake and helps them prepare for their first visit, including completing registration, obtaining medical records, and scheduling their first appointment.
“Patients are often scared before their first appointment,” says Jennifer Canales-Olmos, supervisor of patient access operations...
11 new research advances from the past year
Over the past year, MD Anderson researchers and clinicians have investigated the gut microbiome, examined the earliest genesis of lung adenocarcinoma...
5 changes MD Anderson made to improve the patient and caregiver experience this past year
At MD Anderson, we are committed to exceptional patient care and research each day. That drive to care for patients and their families goes...
Menin inhibitor clinical trial puts pediatric leukemia patient in remission
When David Stan was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in the summer of 2023, his parents, Emil and Maria, were stunned. Cancer doesn’t run in either of their families. And until then, David had been a perfectly healthy 13-year-old.
“In my line of work, I see some pretty awful things happening to children,” says Emil, a peace officer in southern California. “That can really mess with your head. But when it’s your kid,...
Lung nodules: What you need to know
Lung nodules — or pulmonary nodules — are small growths that can develop in the lungs. By definition, they are no larger than 3 cm, or about...
6 breast cancer myths you shouldn’t believe
Can wearing underwire bras cause breast cancer? What about using antiperspirants containing aluminum or eating foods made with soybeans? ...
Finding hope for cancer patients in ferroptosis research
Guang Lei, M.D., Ph.D., spends his days in a lab studying ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death.
But it’s not a love of science...
Understanding allogeneic stem cell transplants: What you need to know
Stem cell transplants use healthy, immature cells to replace those that either aren’t working properly in a person’s bone marrow or have been...
Stage IV lung cancer survivor: Why you should start your treatment at MD Anderson
After watching my grandmother die with emphysema, I resolved never to smoke. So, when I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer — and told...
What is a partial hysterectomy? Differences, benefits and risk factors
“Partial hysterectomy” is one of those phrases that isn’t very specific. It’s not always clear what the term means. So, most doctors try to...
Stage III ovarian cancer survivor: Don’t ignore your symptoms
When I was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer in July 2023, it hit me like a thunderbolt. Ovarian cancer doesn’t run in my family. But...
What is an eye freckle? 7 things to know
An eye freckle is a dark-colored spot on the eye. Doctors may also call it a nevus or mole. Nevi refers to more than one freckle.
Eye...
What to know about metastatic prostate cancer
Metastatic prostate cancer is prostate cancer that has spread outside of the prostate to other parts of the body. This is also known as stage...
Journal prompts for cancer patients and caregivers
Journaling is a helpful way to process events, express emotions and reflect on growth and progress. But journaling can also feel overwhelming...
4 things to know about cortisol and stress
Stress and cortisol have been linked ever since early stress research identified cortisol as the main mediator of stress – that is, the main...
Can dark-skinned people get a sunburn?
You might think you don’t need sunscreen if you have Black or brown skin. After all, the extra melanin that creates darker skin tones does...
Mammogram vs. breast ultrasound: What’s the difference?
Regular breast cancer screenings can detect breast cancer early when it’s easier to treat. While mammograms are considered the gold standard...
Advances in small cell lung cancer classification
Most patients with lung cancer have non-small cell lung cancer. However, around 15% of patients have a less-common type called small cell...
Easy ways to add more fiber this holiday season
It’s officially the holiday season! That means it’s time to catch up with loved ones, break out the matching pajamas and ugly sweaters, and...
Exploring pancreatic cancer vaccines: What’s next?
When most people think of a vaccine, they think of the prevention of a disease. For pancreatic cancer vaccines, though, it’s a little bit...
MD Anderson helps survivor through three cancer diagnoses
Diane White had bronchitis off and on for most of her adult life. But one case in late 2019 was hard to shake.
So, she saw her family...
Need a stem cell transplant? 4 tips to make your life easier
Cancer patients usually have to make some lifestyle adjustments to accommodate their treatment. That could mean anything from taking time...
6 pap smear questions, answered
It's a procedure that goes by many names: Pap smear, Papanicolaou test, Pap test, cytology or simply a ‘Pap.’
At MD Anderson, we refer...
Craniotomy vs. craniectomy: What’s the difference?
A craniotomy and a craniectomy are surgical procedures used to treat conditions in the brain. They are both performed by neurosurgeons.
Proton therapy saved my ability to taste during treatment for tongue cancer
For Carlos Morera, the only symptom of oral cancer was a small lump beneath his jaw when shaving.
With a history of cancer, he knew...
4 things to know about kidney biopsies
At MD Anderson, our dedicated interventional radiologists perform around 500 kidney biopsies a year. Nearly all of them are guided by advanced...
Mastectomy recovery: What to expect after breast removal surgery
Mastectomy is the scientific term for the surgical removal of the breast. It is frequently used to treat and prevent breast cancer. It can...
Weight loss injections and cancer: 6 questions, answered
Most people know that losing weight has numerous benefits, but making major lifestyle changes can be extremely difficult. For example, obese...
What is the future of cell therapy in cancer treatment?
Cell therapies, often described as ‘living therapies,’ are a form of immunotherapy created using immune cells from a patient or healthy donor...
How beautiful images can advance immunotherapy
They say a picture is worth 1,000 words.
In the case of MD Anderson’s immunotherapy platform, part of the James P. Allison Institute...
Domestic violence and cancer treatment: 5 things to know
Domestic violence can happen to anyone. It affects all races, ages, educational levels, socioeconomic classes, genders and sexual orientations...
Bugs as drugs: What is microbial cell therapy?
When it comes to cancer therapies, the use of bacteria may sound unusual, but it’s a rapidly developing field with exciting potential....
6 things to know about scar massage
Scar massage is used to improve the appearance and/or long-term healing prospects of scar tissue after cancer treatment.
This...
What is chemoradiation?
Chemoradiation describes the process of using chemotherapy in tandem with radiation therapy to treat cancer.
But how does chemoradiation...
Stage IV leiomyosarcoma survivor: Faith and quality care got me through cancer
Sheri Peters was diagnosed with stage IV leiomyosarcoma of the uterus in 2015. Her 17-year-old son, Zach, had died from stage IV Ewing’s sarcoma...
6 things to know about pituitary adenomas
Pituitary adenomas, also referred to as pituitary neuroendocrine tumors, are almost always benign tumors that arise from hormone-secreting...
Understanding orchiectomies: What you need to know
Orchiectomy — also known as orchidectomy — is the scientific term for the surgical removal of a testicle. It is usually performed to treat...
What is red light therapy?
During red light therapy, a continuous beam of low-energy red light with a wavelength between 630 to 700 nanometers is used to regenerate...
Young adult breast cancer survivor: Why I joined a clinical trial at MD Anderson
When I was diagnosed with stage III triple-negative breast cancer in May 2023, I was pretty scared. I had just turned 32, and I didn’t know...
‘How I knew I had bladder cancer’: 3 survivors’ first symptoms
Bladder cancer is a disease of the urinary tract. So, most bladder cancer symptoms will affect urination in some way.
“The most common...
Flu shot side effects and how to manage them
A throbbing head. A sore arm. Feeling downright blah.
Side effects after a flu shot can be uncomfortable, but do they mean you shouldn...
Prostate biopsy explained: Process, recovery and results
A prostate biopsy is a procedure that helps diagnose prostate cancer. The prostate is a gland found only in males and is part of the reproductive...
What is theranostics?
You may have heard the term theranostics when reading about cancer treatments, but what does it mean? The word theranostics is a combination...
Diagnosed with cancer while pregnant? Here’s what to expect
Discovering you’re pregnant can be one of the most joyous experiences of your life. But what happens if you also receive a cancer diagnosis...
Vitamin D deficiencies: What to know
Vitamin D is often associated with sunshine, but getting outside isn’t the only way to get its benefits. Vitamin D is also found in some foods...
Fraternal twin of leukemia survivor: Advice for navigating a sibling’s cancer diagnosis
When my twin brother, James, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in June 2013, everyone was shocked. We were only 19 at the time. Cancer...
Are you a victim of domestic violence?
Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) — more commonly known as domestic violence — is defined as the emotional, psychological, sexual, or physical...
What level of lymphocytes is considered dangerous?
Lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell. They help make up our immune system. Because they have cellular memory, any time they’re exposed...
What to know after learning you have a BRCA mutation
Finding out you are at an increased risk for cancer can feel especially personal – not to mention urgent – when it's due to genetics like...
6 myths about tanning safety
There can be a lot of misunderstandings about how safe it is to get a tan.
As a dermatologist, I love to debunk tanning myths....
Gastrointestinal medical oncologist and researcher driven to help patients live longer
Van Morris, M.D., is driven to offer more to patients.
“I am reminded every day about the opportunities for improving treatments for...
Blood in urine (hematuria): What causes it and what to do about it
It can be scary to see blood in your urine. While there is cause for concern, you shouldn’t panic. There can be many reasons for blood in...
How to take care of your oral microbiome
Inside your mouth, there is a lot more than what meets the eye. This world is called the oral microbiome, and it's made up of a community...
Three cancer survivors raise funds to support Colorado patients
In 2014, Amanda Boswell was a young mother to her six-month-old son, Court. One day when she was breastfeeding, she noticed an unusual lump...
Rare granulosa cell tumor survivor: Go to MD Anderson first
The first time I was diagnosed with a granulosa cell tumor in early 2005, I didn’t realize that my doctors here in Mississippi may have never...
What is a contrast-enhanced mammogram?
Starting at age 40, women at average risk for breast cancer should get yearly mammograms to screen for breast cancer.
2D digital mammography...
‘How I knew I had lymphoma’: 6 survivors describe their symptoms
Night sweats, persistent fevers and unexplained weight loss are three of the most common symptoms of lymphoma, whether they stem from Hodgkin...
Radiation therapy, the immune system and what’s ahead
Radiation therapy is often thought of as a treatment for localized cancer that hasn’t spread. But when paired with other therapies, it can...
How MD Anderson’s global oncology commitment is improving cancer care worldwide
MD Anderson has a clear mission: to end cancer. However, our efforts go far beyond our campuses in the Greater Houston area. To make the biggest...
Intrathecal pain pump improves pancreatic cancer patient’s life
In 2021, J. David Garrett, Ph.D., began to experience pain in his upper abdomen and back. He initially blamed it on acid reflux. When the...
Radiation Planning Assistant: Delivering on the promise of AI
Adoption of radiation therapy technology has increased around the world to the point that access to the technology itself is often no longer...
11 things to know about liver biopsies
If you’ve been told you need a liver biopsy, you might have some questions. What will the liver biopsy reveal? Will the procedure hurt? How...
Multiple myeloma and spine cancer survivor: ‘Always think about a second opinion’
In 2022, Emily Shults, then 47, had recently moved to Magnolia, Texas, from California, to be closer to family. During the move, she remembers...
Using multi-omics to advance ovarian cancer treatment
Every day on her way to her lab, Sammy Ferri-Borgogno, Ph.D., passed through the oncology waiting room. Seeing the faces, observing the interactions...
Here are the seasonal vaccines you need this fall
Fall is a busy time of year. Back-to-school is in full force, and the holidays are on the horizon. It’s also when new flu and COVID-19 vaccines...
How to stay active when you don’t feel your best
When you don’t feel well, it may seem natural to stay curled in bed or parked on the couch while you recover. But what should you do when...
What is leukoplakia? Symptoms, risk factors and treatment
Leukoplakia is the scientific name for abnormal white patches that develop inside the mouth. They can be a symptom of oral cancer or a pre-cancerous...
Leukemia survivor, breast cancer caregiver: Why I joined MD Anderson’s Boot Walk to End Cancer
My wife, Lorraine, is a 17-year breast cancer survivor, thanks to the treatment she received at MD Anderson in 2007. So, when I was diagnosed...
Understanding kidney pain: Common causes, symptoms and when to get checked out
Kidney cancers don’t generally cause pain in patients before diagnosis. That’s because the most common types of kidney cancer tend to grow...
9 things to know about lip cancer
Lip cancer describes cancer that develops on the inside or outside of the lip. Anyplace from where the lips touch each other and inward is...
Innovative directions in immunotherapy research
Immunotherapy is a cancer treatment that uses a patient’s immune system to target their cancer cells. Some common types of immunotherapies...
3 myths you shouldn’t believe about integrative medicine
You might think that the terms “integrative medicine” and “alternative medicine” are interchangeable, or that they mean the same thing. But...
5 things to know about grains
Grains are small seeds that we eat every day. But how does our body use them? And are they healthy? We spoke with wellness dietitian Lindsey...
Bone marrow biopsy explained: Process, pain management and results
A bone marrow biopsy is a procedure that helps diagnose diseases and other conditions in the blood and bone marrow. MD Anderson performs about...
Myxoid liposarcoma: Diagnosis, treatment and prognosis
Myxoid liposarcoma is a rare cancer that accounts for about 30% to 40% of liposarcoma cases. This makes it the second most common type of...
Are tampons bad for you?
Recently, period products have raised questions after a study found heavy metals in some brands of tampons.
While very small amounts...
Renal medullary carcinoma: 5 things to know about this rare and aggressive kidney cancer
Renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) is a rare and extremely aggressive kidney cancer. In the United States, it is diagnosed most frequently among...
5 reasons you might get called back after a screening mammogram
If you’ve ever been asked to come back for additional testing after a routine mammogram, you know that the experience can be nerve-wracking...
6 easy protein sources for cancer patients
Protein is an important building block for our bodies. It helps build tissue and muscle mass and keeps us healthy.
Protein is especially...
Acoustic neuroma surgery with cochlear implant restores woman’s hearing
In the summer of 2022, the sound in Elizabeth “Nikki” Lacobie’s left ear became muffled. When Nikki’s ears did not clear after antibiotic...
What causes jaundice in adults?
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by abnormally high levels of bilirubin, an orangey-yellow pigment found in a liver secretion...
What's a calorie deficit?
Dietitian Jessica Tilton describes calories as the energy in food, but she also understands that for many of us, they represent so much more...
Adenoid cystic carcinoma treatment at MD Anderson saved my eyesight
Michael Morin spent long days reading and looking at the computer screen while he studied for the Bar Exam and completed law school. So, when...
Renal medullary carcinoma, sickle cell trait and high-intensity exercise: What’s the connection?
Very few people will be diagnosed with renal medullary carcinoma this year. But of those who are, about 60% will be young Black men who carry...
Hodgkin lymphoma survivor thankful for care at MD Anderson
Macey Hicks always made her health a priority. She went to 4 a.m. boot camp classes, worked out regularly, didn’t smoke and ate plenty of...
What is a prostate, and what does it do?
The prostate is a gland found only in males. It plays a role in maintaining fertility in sexually mature males, as well as in the act of procreation...
B-cell lymphoma survivor: MD Anderson’s expertise saved me and my pregnancy
When I was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma in August 2023, I wasn’t really frightened for myself. I was more worried about my pregnancy. At...
14 MD Anderson patient and caregiver amenities and services you might not know about
From postal services to art classes and spiritual care, MD Anderson offers patients and their caregivers many amenities.
Some...
Electrolytes 101: What to know
Staying hydrated is a health topic that never seems to get less popular – no doubt because of how many of our bodies’ functions rely on water...
How to relieve nerve pain after a mastectomy
Between 25% and 60% of people who have surgery as part of their breast cancer treatment will also experience a side effect known as post-mastectomy...
Pancreatic, breast cancer survivor: MD Anderson managed two different diagnoses at the same time
When I was diagnosed with stage II triple-negative breast cancer in November 2022, I originally planned to seek treatment at the hospital...
‘How I knew I had inflammatory breast cancer’: 6 survivors' symptoms
Inflammatory breast cancer symptoms tend to appear very quickly.
“At first, patients might complain of a spot-like rash, or of...
Innovative cancer treatment saves renal medullary carcinoma patient and her pregnancy
Every cancer patient’s situation is unique. But Heather Williams’ was exceptional.
The ER nurse from North Carolina was only...
What are free radicals? A dietitian explains
If you’ve read dietary or health information, you may have stumbled across the term ‘free radicals.’ Maybe you’ve even heard that free radicals...
Immunotherapy clinical trial allows cervical cancer survivor to thrive
Jana Selman wants to share her experience on a clinical trial for cervical cancer with anyone who could benefit from knowing about it....
Two-time prostate cancer survivor:Why I’m grateful for a cancer recurrence
Most people would not look at a cancer recurrence as a blessing. But I consider mine nothing short of a miracle.
If God hadn’t led...
Uterine fibroids and cancer: Is there a connection?
Uterine fibroids are smooth-muscle tumors that develop in the thick muscular walls of the uterus. We don’t know for certain what causes them...
9 things to know about sunglasses, eye protection and cancer
You’ve put on your UPF-rated clothing, applied your sunscreen and positioned your beach umbrella carefully. But are you also wearing sunglasses...
How are targeted therapies used in lung cancer treatment?
Lung cancer is the third-most common type of cancer and the most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to...
7 tips for managing internet-related health anxiety
When you have a health-related question, whom do you ask? If you are like me and many of the patients I work with as a psychiatrist, you might...
How many calories should I eat a day?
If you’ve ever examined the Nutrition Facts label on food, you’ve likely seen a phrase like “2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition...
Lung cancer survivor grateful for immunotherapy clinical trial
It’s been almost a year since Att Callahan was diagnosed with stage IIB lung cancer. The diagnosis came after she began coughing up blood...
‘How I knew I had a brain tumor’: 4 survivors share their symptoms
Headaches and seizures are common brain tumor symptoms. But they can also be caused by other medical conditions.
So, how can you tell...
Celiac plexus block: 5 things to know about the procedure
Managing pain is an important part of cancer treatment. There are many pain management options, depending on the patient’s preferences and...
Oral cancer symptoms by stage
Oral cancers can cause many different symptoms. And, because they may develop on the tongue, lips, gums, cheek, hard palate or floor of the...
Documentary filmmaker finds courage after chondrosarcoma diagnosis and hemipelvectomy
Gabriel Francis Paz Goodenough knows the impact of storytelling. He’s spent 30 years working as a camera operator in television and film....
What is a cystoscopy?
A cystoscopy is a medical procedure in which a doctor uses a slender, flexible scope to look inside the bladder. It’s the best way we have...
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): What are they, and how are they treated?
A gastrointestinal stromal tumor is a type of sarcoma that develops in the connective tissue of the gastrointestinal tract. It’s often referred...
What is radiation fibrosis? 5 things to know
Radiation therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used alone or in combination with...
What is phantom limb pain? 5 questions, answered
Amputation surgeries are sometimes used to treat cancer that affects an extremity, including toes, fingers, legs and arms. When a limb is...
Does hormone replacement therapy increase cancer risk?
Hot flashes. Insomnia. Mood changes.
If you've experienced menopause symptoms, you can probably relate to the feeling of wanting them...
Medullary thyroid cancer survivor trusts MD Anderson for long-term care
In March 2019, Dana Reeves was preparing for several milestones. Her daughter was getting ready to graduate from high school. Her husband...
Clinical nutrition manager and cancer survivor: Why I’m an MD Anderson fan for life
My father died of hairy cell leukemia in 1980, when I was only 4. Before he passed away, he wrote me letters for every major milestone in...
Tongue cancer survivor thriving after minimally invasive surgery
After Tim Turner began feeling pain in his jaw, doctors discovered an ulcer underneath his tongue. A CT scan and biopsy in early 2023 confirmed...
Understanding chondrosarcoma: symptoms, treatment and prognosis
Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of bone cancer that develops in cartilage cells. It is the most common bone cancer in adults.
Conventional...
What happens when you get a sunburn
Sunburn causes skin sensations that many of us are all too familiar with: stinging, burning, blistering, peeling, and, of course, that hallmark...
Stage III bile duct cancer survivor: ‘I can’t imagine being anywhere but MD Anderson’
For over two years, JoAnne Holly fought a terrible rash on her face and back. She visited several doctors and even had biopsies done. They...
What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or the rectum. It is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S.<...
4-time cancer survivor and employee: Why I chose MD Anderson for my treatment
I’ve had several benign skin growths removed from my back over the years. But I never expected to be diagnosed with four different types of...
Cancer treatment-related nail changes: 7 things to know
Cancer treatment can cause physical and emotional side effects. You may notice changes to your nails if you receive chemotherapy or certain...
Scalp cooling and chemotherapy hair loss: what to know
Hair loss is a side effect of cancer treatment that can be physically and emotionally challenging.
"When patients lose their hair...
Metastatic breast and spine cancer survivor: ‘I’m living into the cure’
“I have an illness, not a terminal diagnosis,” says Lisa Ordmandy. Despite her metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, Lisa remains optimistic...
Do sugary drinks increase colorectal cancer risk?
Many of us enjoy soda without a second thought.
About two-thirds of children and teenagers and half of adults in the United States...
‘How I knew I had pancreatic cancer’: Survivors share their symptoms
The most common symptoms of pancreatic cancer are pain in your abdomen or back, weight loss and jaundice.
But these issues can also...
How does sunscreen work? Understanding UV protection
The sun’s ultraviolet radiation damages skin cells, which can lead to sunburn, early aging and even skin cancer. Thankfully, sunscreen...
Standardized uptake value (SUV) numbers on PET scans: What do they mean?
An FDG PET scan uses a radiotracer to measure things like blood flow, oxygen use and sugar metabolism in your body. It shows how your tissues...
Student extern donates blood to honor late father
Not even the stress of finals week could stop Fernando Langer from giving blood. That’s how strongly the importance of giving back is ingrained...
Pancreatic cancer survivor finds hope in cancer research
Helene Andrews-Polymenis finds hope in cancer research.
Like many cancer survivors, she often feels some anxiety when she thinks about...
Chemical peels: Are they safe for cancer patients?
Chemical peels have been credited with everything from eliminating wrinkles and acne scars to stimulating cell growth and reversing sun damage...
Prostate cancer survivor grateful for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
With a family history of prostate cancer, Keith Burchfield did not wait to talk to his doctor about the risks and benefits of early prostate...
What's the best way to quit smoking?
Smoking is on the decline. But if you are one of the 28 million Americans still smoking, you probably know how hard it is to quit.
7 things to know about UPF, sun protection and clothing
Protecting our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light is a year-round job. It requires wearing the proper clothing, using sunscreen on exposed...
I have HPV. Now what?
We all hope the awkwardness is over after we get our Pap and HPV tests. So hearing that you have tested positive for HPV can be a blow...
5 ways MD Anderson is researching the link between food and cancer
The relationship between what we eat and drink and our cancer risk is complex. It’s been the subject of research for decades.
“Nutrition...
9 sunscreen myths debunked
Sunscreen is a hot topic – and not just because it’s a summertime staple!
There are also many myths and misconceptions surrounding...
3 things to know about AI and cancer care
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to shape nearly every aspect of our lives – including cancer care. At MD Anderson, we see the...
Newest research in sarcoma
Sarcomas are a broad group of cancers that originate from connective tissues, such as the blood or lymph vessels, gastrointestinal tract...
HPV tests with self-collection: What to know
This month, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved self-collection to test for HPV, the virus that causes cervical cancer. As a researcher...
What’s new in leukemia research?
Leukemia is an overarching term encompassing several subtypes of blood cancers. Blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, the spongy material...
Phobias and cancer treatment: What to know
Cancer is incredibly stressful. Phobias, or intense fears, can add another layer of stress and anxiety to the process – especially when that...
Urothelial carcinoma: 8 insights about this common bladder cancer
Urothelial carcinoma is cancer that develops in the urothelial cells. These cells are located in the urothelium, which lines the inside of...
Researcher studies tumor cell interaction to improve immunotherapy
Kenneth Hu, Ph.D., first got a taste of what it’s like to work in a real science lab as a senior in high school. He was part of a program...
Stage IV melanoma survivor: Dark skin won’t protect you from skin cancer
I’ve always been aware of my body. So, when something goes awry, I follow up. Any time I notice something unusual, or just don’t feel quite...
4 thoracic anesthesia questions, answered
Patients with cancer may undergo anesthesia for many reasons, including MRI, pain management techniques or surgery. The method uses special...
Colorectal cancer nurse inspired by patients every day
Regina Dela Cruz knows that being an oncology nurse is not for the faint of heart. But the inspiration she receives from her patients makes...
How is pain psychology used in cancer care?
Pain is the body’s warning signal. The brain processes, interprets and uses pain to warn our bodies of danger and threat.
Unlike...
Breast cancer survivor: Why I joined a clinical trial at MD Anderson
After watching a relative’s local doctors coordinate their cancer treatment with specialists from MD Anderson years ago, I remember thinking...
What’s new in immunotherapy for prostate cancer?
One of the earliest immunotherapies approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of cancer was a vaccine called sipuleucel-T...
Orthopedic oncologist passionate about helping patients regain mobility
Valerae Lewis, M.D., always knew she wanted to be a doctor. Math and science fascinated her. She liked working with her hands. As a child,...
Peritoneal cancer: 8 questions, answered
Peritoneal cancer is a rare cancer that develops in the peritoneum, the tissue made of epithelial cells that line the abdominal wall. It’s...
‘How I knew I had stomach cancer’: Six survivors share their symptoms
Abdominal pain, heartburn and fatigue can sometimes be symptoms of stomach cancer. But they can also be the result of overeating, untreated...
Advances in cancer neuroscience and drug discovery could benefit patients with Alzheimer’s disease
MD Anderson is known for its cancer care and research. But did you know that for more than a decade, MD Anderson researchers have been working...
Ascites: 8 things to know about this ovarian cancer symptom
Ascites is the accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal space of the abdomen. Though it can be caused by several non-cancerous conditions,...
Survivor’s guilt: what it is and how to manage it
The emotional impacts of cancer can last long after treatment is completed.
Guilt is just one of the many emotions that may come up...
Retinoblastoma: 7 insights on this rare eye cancer
Retinoblastoma is a cancer that forms in the retina, a layer of tissue in the eye that’s sensitive to light. It’s a rare eye cancer, but it...
Researcher wants to use epigenetics to advance cancer treatment
When Angela Ting, Ph.D., was in her third year of college at The University of British Columbia, she still hadn’t decided on a career. She...
10 cancer symptoms men shouldn't ignore
Nagging back pain. Indigestion. Frequent urination. You may assume these are minor health issues that don’t need a doctor’s visit. But think...
Second opinion changes course of treatment for marginal zone lymphoma survivor
When Alexandra Mastrogiuseppe-Cribbin was diagnosed with stage IV marginal zone lymphoma in August 2023, she and her husband, James, were...
Cancer caregiver: 4 reasons I donate blood at MD Anderson
My husband, Allan, started receiving treatment for stage IV prostate cancer at MD Anderson in the summer of 2022. He was in such bad shape...
Vaping and your brain: What to know
Many people are curious as to how vaping impacts the brain. As a researcher who studies the psychology behind smoking, I share that curiosity...
How long does it take chemotherapy to shrink tumors?
Many cancer patients ask how long it might take for chemotherapy to shrink their tumors.
That’s a tough question because the answer...
What does drinking alcohol do to your body?
It’s natural to wonder how the substances we consume affect our bodies. Many Americans choose to drink, so it’s no surprise that alcohol’s...
What are the health benefits of apple cider vinegar?
An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but does the saying also apply to a serving of apple cider vinegar?
Social media influencers...
What does ovarian cancer pain feel like?
Symptoms of ovarian cancer are so vague that roughly 80% of cases are diagnosed only after the disease has reached stage III or IV.
How does alcohol affect the microbiome?
As a researcher who studies diet and the microbiome, I often hear questions about how everyday choices impact the body.
One area that...
How to manage a mental health condition during cancer treatment
Cancer is intense, but it isn't something you have to go through alone.
As a psychiatrist, I help patients with mental health conditions...
Why is red meat bad for you?
From barbeque to brisket and sausage to steak, red meat is a mealtime and menu staple.
Yet, for cancer prevention, it’s best to limit...
What’s new in KRAS mutation research?
Cancer cells often develop genetic mutations that initiate and sustain the growth of tumors. The most frequently mutated of these oncogenic...
What are PARP inhibitors?
PARP inhibitors are a type of targeted therapy commonly used to treat breast cancer and ovarian cancer, among others. They target PARP, or...
How to reduce your breast cancer risk
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. So, you may be wondering how to avoid breast cancer.
While there is no guaranteed...
Richter transformation: What chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients should know
Richter transformation, historically called Richter syndrome, can affect patients who have or have not been treated for chronic lymphocytic...
Cancerversaries: How and why cancer survivors celebrate
If you’re a cancer survivor, you may have heard the term ‘cancerversary.’ A combination of the words ‘cancer’ and ‘anniversary,’ a cancerversary...
A dietitian’s take on colostrum supplements
Recently, colostrum supplements have been gaining popularity online and across social media.
These dietary supplements are a powdered...
Testicular cancer survivor: Renewed perspective helped me heal
I was blindsided by my stage I testicular cancer diagnosis at age 42. It was the fall of 2020, and I had just moved to a new city, started...
5 precancerous conditions and what you can do about them
You may already know that some types of colon polyps can develop into colorectal cancer. Or, that cervical dysplasia can sometimes lead to...
Young adult colon cancer survivor says support was vital during treatment
At age 26, Savannah Kaspar was a typical young adult: working, spending time with family and friends and planning trips. But after a colorectal...
Atypical ductal hyperplasia: What it is and how it's treated
The breast is made up of ducts and lobules. The cells in the lining of a normal milk duct grow in an orderly single layer. Sometimes there...
Caregiver supports ovarian cancer research to honor wife’s memory
When Mac Dunwoody thinks of his late wife, Susan, he doesn’t focus on the ovarian cancer that ultimately took her life. Instead, he remembers...
Quit smoking: 6 products to strike out nicotine cravings
Smoking causes an addiction that can be tough to shake. This is due to nicotine, the addictive ingredient in tobacco.
Thankfully, there...
Prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels by age: What to know
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein made by the prostate, a walnut-shaped gland that’s part of the human male reproductive system...
Stage IV lung cancer survivor: Targeted therapy and surgery left me cancer-free
As a retired firefighter and combat veteran, I’ve been in some pretty tough situations. But the hardest thing I’ve ever done was sit my four...
How four cancer researchers got their start and what motivates them
At MD Anderson, our care teams work hand in hand with scientists who bring the best treatments available today to our clinics while dreaming...
Glioblastoma survivor: ‘MD Anderson is a blessing’
When it comes to his glioblastoma diagnosis, Chris Cook is inspired by his faith, his family and his doctors at MD Anderson.
Post-holiday...
CAR T cell therapy for pediatric patients: What parents should know
CAR T cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that modifies T cells, so they can detect and fight cancer cells. This therapy is increasingly...
Is breast cancer genetic?
Families pass down many things: traditions, names, heirlooms, recipes. But if you have family members who have or had breast cancer, you might...
Finding perspective during oropharyngeal cancer treatment
Judd Woehrle has always been a firm believer in listening to your own body when something feels off. When he noticed a painless swollen gland...
Oral cancer survivor: 5 quality of life hacks that I didn’t learn until survivorship
When I was still in active treatment for stage IV squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, a type of oral cancer, I was so focused on staying...
Magnesium supplements and mocktails for better sleep: Do they work?
You may have seen “sleepy girl mocktail” recipes making the rounds on social media, promising deep and restful sleep. Usually, these non-alcoholic...
Squamous cell carcinoma survivor thankful he chose proton therapy
A routine dentist visit prompted a series of tests that led to Jay Rusovich’s squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis in early 2023.
“My...
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) diagnosis fuels nurse educator’s passion for goal concordant care
Tori McClosky’s senior year of high school turned upside down when a tumor was found on her brain. The cause was neurofibromatosis type 1...
7 tips for maintaining weight loss
You’ve hit your weight loss goal! Now what?
While there is no shortage of information on how to lose weight, it can be trickier to...
Meeting with a research nurse during a clinical trial: What to know
Enrolling in a clinical trial is one way to access cancer treatment that may not yet be broadly available while helping future cancer patients...
Young adult cancer survivor’s treatment sparks passion for photography
In February 2013, Kenyan Guidry went to the emergency room for what he thought were symptoms related to a recent car accident.
“I was...
Guitarist’s awake craniotomy video strikes a chord with drummer facing similar diagnosis
When Adrian Rivas needed brain surgery, his doctors suggested he not only be awake in the middle of his procedure but that he also play the...
Caring for a cancer patient with cognitive impairments: Use this advice
Caregivers of cancer patients with cognitive impairments can face any number of unique challenges.
If their loved one has...
Cancer in the sigmoid colon: What it means when colon cancer is on the left side
The sigmoid colon is the part of the large intestine (colon) closest to the rectum. It absorbs water from stool and pushes the stool to the...
Breast cancer survivor: Calling MD Anderson was the best decision I ever made
You only have one life. So, when you find out you have cancer, you don’t want to mess around. You want the best possible care you can get,...
Should you eat a lectin-free diet?
You’ve probably heard about the heart-healthy diet, the Mediterranean diet and even the keto diet. If you’re a cancer patient or caregiver...
Young adult astrocytoma survivor grateful for MD Anderson's expertise
“Other doctors felt they could not operate,” says Sean O’Brien, an astrocytoma survivor. But MD Anderson neurosurgeon Frederick Lang, M.D....
What does a data scientist do?
Theoretically, anyone who analyzes data to do science could call themselves a data scientist. But to me, that term also implies the use of...
3 women in science share their perspectives on working in cancer research
Women account for 1 in 3 researchers across the globe. At MD Anderson, women play a vital part in our research community. They are leaders...
Pleiomorphic sarcoma survivor: MD Anderson gave me back my life
When I was diagnosed with an aggressive soft-tissue cancer called undifferentiated pleiomorphic sarcoma at age 74, the tumor in my flank was...
Prostate cancer survivor grateful for high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)
When Howard Walton visited his primary care doctor in August 2022, she was concerned his prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were rising...
What is composite remission?
If you or someone you love has ever been diagnosed with a blood cancer such as leukemia or lymphoma, you’re probably already familiar with...
Ommaya reservoir and its role in cancer care
An Ommaya reservoir is a plastic, dome-shaped device inserted underneath the skin on your scalp. The dome is connected to a catheter placed...
MD Anderson helps breast cancer survivor get back to her family
Stacia Folloder was nine years away from the recommended age to get her first mammogram when she was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 31...
What to know about fasting during cancer treatment
Diet plays an important role in supporting your body during cancer treatment.
Yet there are many reasons why someone in cancer treatment...
Lymphoma patient finds pain relief with spine jack vertebral augmentation
At home in Mansura, Louisiana, my life is all about my family. My husband and I are both retired, and we live next door to one of my daughters...
Anesthesia for elderly patients with cancer: What caregivers should know
You may have heard the phrase “age is just a number,” and while that may be true, certain factors make age an important part of your medical...
What is astrocytoma, and how is it different from glioblastoma?
Astrocytoma and glioblastoma are two types of brain tumors. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) changed how these tumors are classified...
Pancreatic cancer survivor: I’m glad I took a chance on a Whipple procedure
You might say that cancer runs in my family, but not with what I’d call any consistency. There’s been a random case of bladder cancer here...
Looking forward to a bright future in health care
More than 5,000 students and trainees pass through MD Anderson each year. But when our Diagnostic Imaging teams went to offer full-time roles...
Is bone broth good for you?
Bone broth is a common soup base, but in recent years, it has been getting attention as a beverage.
This savory drink is usually enjoyed...
Enlightening and innovating nursing at MD Anderson
Clinical Nurse Christian Perez receives a message that a hospital patient is ready for discharge. Within a few seconds, the patient’s face...
How coaching is elevating MD Anderson’s workforce
When Frances Snipes began the LEADing Teams Core program with MD Anderson’s Leadership Institute last year, she was surprised to be assigned...
Cervical cancer survivor finds care and compassion during brachytherapy treatment
My nutritionist and chiropractor suspected something was wrong when I could not lose weight, but I was not concerned. I did not have any cramps...
Childhood cancer caregiver is passionate about serving our children
When it comes to MD Anderson’s pediatric cancer patients, Tomika Gamble is the agent of fun.
As program director for pediatric support...
What to know about foods with nitrates and nitrites
What do deli meats have in common with leafy greens?
Aside from the fact that both foods might be included in a sandwich, they also...
Advancing cancer surgery through data science
At MD Anderson, operating room lamps cast a brilliant glow on surgeons, nurses, anesthesiologists and other clinical team members as they...
Chief of staff and husband ‘feel very fortunate’ after throat cancer diagnosis
Fatima Sheriff has been MD Anderson’s chief of staff since September 2018 and a health care professional for more than 25 years. But the Canadian...
What are the top 5 warning signs of prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate, a small walnut-shaped gland in the male reproductive system. It is the...
How to lose weight without exercise
You may be familiar with sayings such as ‘You can’t exercise your way out of a bad diet’ or ‘Abs are made in the kitchen.’ But are those sayings...
Pelvic floor physical therapy: 5 questions answered
Nikki Samms, DPT, knows the region of the body she treats can make people uncomfortable.
As an MD Anderson pelvic floor physical therapist...
Does vaping cause lung cancer?
The saying goes ‘Where there’s smoke, there’s fire.’
Vaping seems to be an exception to that rule, as vapes, or e-cigarettes, use electricity...
Prioritizing sustainability for MD Anderson's future
In 2023 alone, MD Anderson recycled enough paper products to save 20,288 mature trees. Linette Leadon thinks that number could be higher....
Pivotal moment shapes physician’s patient-centered care
While she was a physician in training in Chicago, Sairah Ahmed, M.D., was struck by the similarities between her and a young leukemia patient...
Is walking good exercise? 4 top questions answered
The beauty of walking is in its simplicity. Unlike other workouts, walking doesn’t necessarily require a gym membership or working up a need-to-shower-right-now...