Breast cancer
Compassionate, coordinated care for the treatment of breast cancer.
We know that hearing the news that you have breast cancer can be a startling and distressing experience. That’s why we strive to help you deal with the many physical and emotional symptoms of the disease while achieving the most successful outcome possible. We believe that the best way to help someone facing a diagnosis of breast cancer is through a well-coordinated and supportive multidisciplinary approach.
Led by a team of physicians and nurses, the Breast Cancer Center at Reliant Medical Group combines the latest medical treatments with support programs that help patients deal with every aspect of the disease. Most importantly, the Breast Cancer Center offers a uniquely personal and caring environment that supports patients through every step of diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
A unique and highly trained team of caregivers
Each breast cancer patient at Reliant benefits from a team of specialists including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, breast and oncology surgeons, radiologists, a pathologist, general and plastic surgeons, nurses, nutritionists and social workers. The Breast Cancer Team meets weekly to review your case. Careful collaboration among our team of experts allows extensive review of your treatment options, allowing you to receive the most favorable course of treatment and follow-up care. During your first appointment, you will meet with a physician who will inform you of the team’s recommendations. After a treatment plan is agreed upon, we will carefully coordinate any required dates for surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or other appointments.
Education and counseling that makes a difference
We believe that educational resources and counseling services for patients are just as important as diagnosis and treatment. That’s why we are so committed to helping you and your loved ones learn about all the services and programs available here and in the community. We offer many different cancer-related informational materials and a cancer support group that meets regularly. Nutrition, counseling, and physical therapy services are also available through the Breast Cancer Center to help patients stay as physically and mentally healthy as possible. Lymphedema management and clinical social work services are also provided for patients who need them. Plus, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, we help patients participate in important programs that provide additional education, encouragement, and peer support throughout treatment and survivorship.
We’ll be there for you
At Reliant Medical Group, we promise that each breast cancer patients will be treated with the utmost care, respect and dignity throughout their diagnosis and treatment. Please contact the Breast Cancer Center at (508) 556-5400 if you have any questions.
On the day of your visit…
- Feel free to have a spouse, friend or significant other join you
- Prior to your appointment, write down all your questions and concerns
- A physician will examine you and have a personal discussion with you regarding your plan of care
Colorectal cancer
Early detection is key.
Cancer of the colon and rectum is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 57,000 Americans will die of colorectal cancer this year.
The risk factors for developing colorectal cancer increase with age. Risk factors include inflammatory bowel disease, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer, colorectal polyps, and certain hereditary syndromes. A lack of regular physical activity also contributes to a person’s risk for colon cancer, but does not affect rectal cancer risk. Other factors may include a diet low in fruits and vegetables, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, obesity, alcohol consumption and tobacco use.
Screening for Colorectal Cancer
Reducing the number of deaths from colorectal cancer depends on detecting and removing precancerous colorectal polyps, as well as detecting and treating the cancer in its early stages. Most physicians recommend regular colorectal screening for all adults over 50 years of age. Recommended screening procedures and intervals are as follows:
- Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) every year
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years
- Double-contrast barium enema every 5 years
- Total colon examination by colonoscopy every 5 years
Persons who are at higher risk should begin screening at a younger age and may need to be tested more frequently. Despite the availability of effective screening tests, colorectal screening remains underutilized. Since colorectal cancer often shows no symptoms in its earliest stages, proper screening is vitally important. Please talk to doctor to make sure you are receiving proper colorectal cancer screening – it could save your life. To learn more about colorectal cancer, click here.