Historic Rise in Cancer Survival
Encouraging Trend Reported by Memorial Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society
Kicking the Habit
Although the incidence rate of lung cancer is declining, it continues to be a leading cause of cancer death. Approximately 9 out of every 10 lung cancer cases can be attributed to smoking.
If you would like to quit:
- Decrease the number of cigarettes you smoke daily, and set a date to quit completely.
- Get help form family, friends or an organized support group.
- Avoid situations that make you want to smoke. Ask others not to smoke around you.
- When the urge to smoke is especially strong, distract yourself by engaging in an enjoyable activity.
- Check with your Memorial doctor about medication that can help you quit.
For further assistance in quitting, contract the American Lung Association of Florida at (800) 524-8010 or www.sflung.org.
May 2006 — According to the American Cancer Society, cancer survival in the United States has increased in recent years for the first time since the 1930s — and this trend is expected to continue. Much of this success can be attributed to earlier cancer detection and diagnosis, as well as more effective treatment options and the fact that fewer Americans are smoking.
At Memorial Cancer Institute, the leading cancer institute in Broward County, physicians are seeing similar improvements in cancer survival. For example, the Memorial Cancer Institute’s colorectal disease program reports that five-year survival rates for early-stage rectal cancers have risen from 80 percent for Stage I in 1990-1994 to 90 percent in 2001-2004, and from 45 percent for Stage II in 1990-1994 to 80 percent in 2001-2004.
“This improvement is the result of several clinical trials of new, innovative therapies,” says Atif Hussein, MD, Director of Memorial Cancer Institute. “Memorial Cancer Institute, through active involvement in clinical research, has been and will continue to be part of further advances.”
Early Detection Is Key
Approximately half of all new cancer cases in the United States could be detected earlier if men and women conducted regular self-exams and followed recommended screenings. “The importance of cancer screenings cannot be emphasized enough,” says Dr. Hussein. “When cancer is identified sooner, we can provide more effective treatment options and save more lives.”
With its staff of highly trained cancer specialists utilizing some of the most advanced technology available, Memorial Cancer Institute is diagnosing more than 55 percent of new cancer cases in the early stages (Stages 0, I and II). Of the major site groups, cancer of the breast, female genitalia and urinary system are diagnosed at earlier stages (Stages 0, I and II), while cancer of the oral cavity (mouth), digestive system, respiratory system and male genitalia are frequently diagnosed at later stages (Stages III and IV). “As more people become aware of the recommended screenings for these types of cancers and take action, we hope to be able to diagnose and treat these cancers at earlier stages, as well,” says Dr. Hussein.
Comprehensive and Specific Cancer Care
Memorial Cancer Institute’s specialists have expertise in detecting and treating a wide range of cancers, with treatment programs designed specifically for the stage of cancer and the patient’s individual needs. This includes disease-specific programs for breast cancer (including one of only a few freestanding facilities in the nation dedicated exclusively to breast cancer), colorectal/gastrointestinal cancer, lung cancer, and cancers and disorders of the blood. “No matter what the condition, we are committed to providing outstanding care to every patient,” says Dr. Hussein.
Some of our distinguished services include:
- Endoscopic ultrasound and a 360-degree rectal probe for advanced detection of gastrointestinal cancers. Only 20 percent of healthcare institutions nationwide offer this level of GI evaluation.
- Digital mammography and the R2 ImageChecker (a computer-assisted diagnosis program) for early detection of breast cancer
- A Flow Cytometry Laboratory for the accurate diagnosis of leukemia and lymphoma.
- Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), brachytherapy, radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and other innovative radiation treatment options for various types of cancer, such as lung, kidney and liver.
- Mammosite® for partial breast radiation therapy. Memorial is one of only a handful of hospitals nationwide offering this innovative treatment option.
- Genetic testing and counseling at the Breast Cancer Center for patients at high risk for breast cancer.
In addition, Memorial Cancer Institute’s Clinical Research Department offers participation in National Cancer Institute (NCI) cooperative group and pharmaceutical industry-sponsored trials for new and promising drugs and therapies.
Memorial Cancer Institute offers two hospital locations. For more information about cancer services at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, call (954) 265-3443; to reach the location at Memorial Hospital West, call (954) 430-6868.
If you are concerned about your risk for cancer and would like a referral to a Memorial physician, please call Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.