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[doctor/patient photo]In its most common forms; breast, prostate, lung, colorectal, blood-related or skin, cancer strikes more than 3,000 Rhode Islanders every year. If you are, or know one of its victims, then you know the fear just the word "cancer" can produce.

The good news is, at Roger Williams Medical Center, we are making great strides in helping individuals and their loved ones to overcome cancer. From conducting scientific research to find new and better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer, to performing complex procedures like blood and bone marrow transplantation, to providing a comprehensive Breast Health Program in our Adele R. Decof Cancer Center: You won't find a more advanced, more comprehensive, or more compassionate approach to cancer care anywhere else in the state.

We realize facing cancer and the many treatment options we offer can make a person feel overwhelmed. That's why we never leave you to sort it all out alone. Before any decisions are made, before any treatment begins, we consult with you and your significant others to explain your choices, the pros and cons, any likely side effects, recovery time, and expected outcomes. We encourage you to ask any questions; express your hopes and fears; talk with us as often as you want.

Beyond the initial consultation, because most cancers respond best to a more than one type of treatment, we assign a team of cancer specialists to your care. Depending on your individual case, that care team may include multiple cancer specialistsÑoncologists, hematologists, immunologists, radiologists, surgeonsÑas well as nurse practitioners, nutritionists, psychologists [and/or what other non-MD specialties]. On a regular basis, these individuals meet as a team and with you to review your care plan and your progress. This way, all parties associated with your care are working from the same current information, toward the same goalÑpreserving your well being and healthy outlook.

For information or help accessing any of our cancer services, call the Cancer Center at 401-456-6504.

 

 

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[skin carcinoma photo]

Skin Carcinoma

What is cancer?

Cancer is a disease characterized by either the excessive or unrestrained growth of cells.

Cancer can occur in any bodily organ and can travel from one part of the body to another distant part. There are more than 100 different types of cancer that can be grouped into one of six major categories:

Brain tumors: Cancer cells that originate in the brain.

Carcinomas:
Cancer cells that originate in tissues that cover a body surface or line a body cavity.

Lymphomas:
Cancer cells that occur in circulatory systems that bathe and cleanse the body's cells.

Leukemias:
Cancer cells that occur in the blood-forming tissues and blood cells.

Sarcomas:
Cancer cells that begin in tissue that connects, supports or surrounds other tissues and organs.

Skin cancers: Cancer cells that originate in the skin; melanoma is an example of the most deadly form of skin cancer.