Resources
Cancer Resources
Cancer Awareness Calendar
Glossary of Cancer Terms
Types of Cancer
To follow please find a list of resources to aid you in your quest for reliable information regarding a cancer diagnosis. To submit your organization's contact information and/or make any changes, you can either e-mail us at hope@peersupportnetwork.org or you can submit information for consideration by mail to: Peer Support Network, Inc., 500 NE Spanish River Blvd., Suite 103C, Boca Raton, FL 33431.
It's important to know that there is a lot of information on the Internet which may or may not be credible, so when possible, it's always best to turn to established organizations for help. Peer Support Network does not evaluate or in anyway endorse the organizations listed.
General Cancer Resources
American Cancer Society
(800) ACS-2345
www.cancer.org
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.
CancerCare, Inc.
(800) 813-HOPE
www.cancercare.org
CancerCare is a national non-profit organization that provides free professional support services to anyone affected by cancer.
Cancer.Net
(888) 651-3038
www.cancer.net
The patient information website of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the leading professional organization representing oncologists.
Coping with Cancer
(615) 790-2400
www.copingmag.com/cwc
A complete online experience that educates and inspires. It is presented in a warm and friendly, easy-to-use format, and provides information by specific cancer type, general knowledge about living with cancer, and wellness and inspirational topics.
CureSearch
(800) 458-6223
www.curesearch.org
A collaboration of the largest childhood cancer research organization, the Children's Oncology Group, and the National Childhood Cancer Foundation that supports comprehensive research conducted by the network of institutions on the cancers of infants, children, and young adults.
Fertile Hope
(888) 994-4673
www.fertilehope.org
Educates cancer patients about fertility issues.
Gilda’s Club
(888) GILDA-4-U
www.gildasclub.org
Gilda’s Club provides meeting places where men, women and children living with cancer and their families and friends can join with others to build emotional and social support as a supplement to medical care. Free of charge, Gilda’s Club offers support and networking groups, lectures, workshops and social events in a non-residential, homelike setting.
Gynecologic Cancer Foundation
(312) 578-1439
www.thegcf.org
GCF provides programs to benefit women who have, or who are at risk of developing a gynecologic cancer. These programs raise awareness of ways to prevent, detect and treat gynecologic cancers and provide education and support.
Hospice Foundation of America
(800) 854-3402
www.hospicefoundation.org
Provides practical information about coping with death and grief.
I'm Too Young For This! Cancer Foundation
(877) 735-4673
http://i2y.com
Founded by and for young adult survivors, the nation's leading grassroots advocate for the next generation of cancer survivors and their caregivers in their late teens, 20s and 30s.
Lance Armstrong Foundation
(512) 236-8820
www.livestrong.org
Helps people with cancer and their loved ones through advocacy, education, public health, and research.
Look Good…Feel Better
(800) 395-LOOK
www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org
Look Good…Feel Better is a free, non medical, brand-neutral, national public service program to help women offset appearance-related changes from cancer treatment.
National Cancer Institute
(800) 4-CANCER
www.cancer.gov
An arm of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the NCI provides comprehensive information about cancer, cancer clinical trials and the latest research developments.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
(888) 644-6226
www.nccam.nih.gov
Provides the latest news, research, events, and clinical trials involving complementary medicine.
National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship
(877) 622-7937
www.canceradvocacy.org
Provides information and resources on cancer support, advocacy, and quality of life issues.
Patient Advocate Foundation
(800) 532-5274
www.patientadvocate.org
Provides education, legal counseling, and referrals to survivors concerning managed care, insurance, financial issues, job discrimination, and debt crisis matters.
Peer Support Network
www.peersupportnetwork.org
Peer Support Network is dedicated to improving the quality of life of all people affected by cancer by fostering communication and hope through Internet-based peer support services. The network connects people impacted by cancer with others that have undergone similar experiences and is available to anyone seeking or offering support.
Sisters Network, Inc.
(866) 781-1808
www.sistersnetworkinc.org
Seeks to increase local and national attention about the impact breast cancer has in the African-American community.
Strength for Caring
www.strengthforcaring.com
An education and support program for cancer caregivers offered as a service by Ortho Biotech Products, L.P.
The Wellness Community
(888) 793-WELL
www.thewellnesscommunity.org
The Wellness Community provides free emotional support, education and hope for people with cancer and their loved ones through professionally-led support groups, educational workshops and mind/body programs.
Women’s Cancer Network
(312) 573-1439
www.wcn.org
WCN is an interactive website dedicated to informing women around the world about gynecologic cancer. The site assists women with cancer and their families to understand more about the disease, learn about treatment options and gain access to new or experimental therapies.
Cancer Specific Resources
BLADDER CANCER
Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network
(888) 901-2226
www.bcan.org
Aims to improve public awareness of the disease and increase research directed toward the diagnosis, treatment, and cure of bladder cancer.
BREAST CANCER
Breast Cancer Network of Strength (Formerly Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization)
(800) 221-2141
www.networkofstrength.org
Provides open-door groups, early detection workshops, and support programs.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure
(800) 462-9273
www.komen.org
Provides breast health and breast cancer educational materials, advocates for breast cancer research and prevention, and funds research.
FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered
(954) 255-8732
www.facingourrisk.org
FORCE is a non-profit organization for women who are at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers due to their family history and genetic status, and for members of families in which a BRCA mutation may be present.
COLORECTAL CANCER
Colon Cancer Alliance
(877) 422-2030
www.ccalliance.org
Offers patient support, a resource center, news, research, advocacy, and events.
C3: Colorectal Cancer Coalition
(877) 427-2111
www.FightColorectalCancer.org
Advocates for research to improve screening, diagnosis, and treatment of colorectal cancer.
ESPOHAGEAL CANCER
Esophageal Cancer Awareness Association
www.ECaware.org
Promotes support for esophageal cancer patients and caregivers.
HEAD AND NECK CANCER
Head and Neck Cancer Alliance (Formerly Yul Brynner Head and Neck Cancer Foundation)
(866) 792-4622
www.headandneck.org
Provides resources, education and support for patients, includes a discussion forum and clinical trial information.
Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer
(800) 377-0928
www.spohnc.org
Provides education, support, a survivor network, clinical trials, and a newsletter.
KIDNEY CANCER
Kidney Cancer Association
(800) 850-9132
www.kidneycancer.org
Offers information about the diagnosis and treatment of kidney cancer, sponsor support groups, and provides physician referral information.
LEIOMYOSARCOMA CANCER
National LeioMyoSarcoma Foundation
(888) 449-6805
www.nlmsf.org
Supporting research of LeioMyoSarcoma, improving treatment outcomes of those affected by this disease as well as fostering awareness in the medical community and the general public.
LEUKEMIA / LYMPHOMA / MYELOMA
International Myeloma Foundation
(800) 452-2873
www.lls.org
Provides financial aid for specified treatment expenses and transportation, family support groups, First Connection (a professionally supervised peer support program) referrals, and school re-entry materials.
Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation
(203) 972-1250
www.themmrf.org
Supports research grants and professional and patient symposia on multiple myeloma and related blood cancers. Provides a newsletter, referrals, and information.
National Marrow Donor Program
(800) 627-7692
www.marrow.org
Keeps a registry of potential bone marrow donors and provides information, patient advocacy and assistance, and free patient education materials.
LUNG CANCER
LungCancer.org
(800) 813-4673
www.lungcancer.org
Offers education, resources, clinical trial information, support groups, teleconferences, an e-newsletter, and news updates.
Lung Cancer Alliance
(800) 298-2436
www.lungcanceralliance.org
Offers educational programs about lung cancer, psychosocial support, and advocacy for lung cancer patients, and those at risk for the disease.
OVARIAN CANCER
Conversations!
(806) 355-2565
www.ovarian-news.com
Conversations! is a monthly newsletter written by an ovarian cancer survivor which reports on treatment options, clinical trials, coping skills and early detection strategies. Conversations! offers humor, an upbeat tone and a networking service to match women in similar circumstances.
FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered
(954) 255-8732
www.facingourrisk.org
FORCE is a non-profit organization for women who are at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers due to their family history and genetic status, and for members of families in which a BRCA mutation may be present.
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
(888) OVARIAN
www.ovarian.org
Ovarian cancer public information and education organization. Help for ovarian cancer patients and their families provided through a network of volunteer-led chapters.
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance
(202) 331-1332
www.ovariancancer.org
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance is committed to uniting individuals and organizations in a national movement for the goal of conquering ovarian cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Research Fund
(800) 873-9569
www.ocrf.org
OCRF is devoted to the formation of early diagnostic treatment programs and research toward the ultimate conquest of ovarian cancer. As OCRF strives to find an early diagnostic tool and a cure, it also seeks to support patients and their loved ones in understanding this disease and its treatment as well as to provide outreach programs and raise public awareness.
PANCREATIC CANCER
Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
(877) 272-6226
www.pancan.org
Educates health professionals and the general public about pancreatic cancer to increase awareness of the disease. Information about support networks, clinical trials, and reimbursement for care are available.
PROSTATE CANCER
National Prostate Cancer Coalition
www.centerwatch.com/ctrc/npcc/
Provides outreach, awareness, and advocacy for prostate cancer.
US TOO! International
(800) 808-7866
www.ustoo.org
Educates newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients, offers support groups, and provides information about treatment.
SARCOMA CANCER
The Sarcoma Alliance
(415) 381-7236
www.sarcomaalliance.org
Provides education, support, and guidance in finding medical providers, treatment options, and more.
Sarcoma Foundation of America
(301) 253-8687
www.curesarcoma.org
Raises funds for sarcoma research, patient networking, and support.
SKIN CANCER
Melanoma International Foundation
(800) 463-6663
www.melanomaintl.org
Educates public on prevention and early detection, coordinates local screening and education programs, and operates a toll-free patient/family hotline.
Skin Cancer Foundation
(800) 754-6490
www.skincancer.org
Increases public awareness of skin cancer, and conducts public and medical educational programs.
THYROID CANCER
ThyCa: Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association
(877) 588-7904
www.thyca.org
Provides support, education, and communication for thyroid cancer survivors, their families, and friends.
National Cancer Institute - Designated Cancer Centers
The following list of designated cancer centers is taken from the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) website. NCI separates cancer centers into two categories:
Cancer Centers have a scientific agenda that is primarily focused on basic, population sciences, or clinical research, or any two of the three components.
Comprehensive Cancer Centers integrate research activities across three major areas: laboratory, clinical and population-based research.
ALABAMA
UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Alabama at Birmingham
www3.ccc.uab.edu/
1802 Sixth Avenue South, NP 2555
Birmingham, Alabama 35294-3300
(205) 934-5077
ARIZONA
Arizona Cancer Center
University of Arizona
www.azcc.arizona.edu/
1515 North Campbell Avenue
P.O. Box 245024
Tucson, Arizona 85724
(520) 626-7685
CALIFORNIA
City of Hope National Medical Center
Beckman Research Institute
www.cityofhope.org/research/comprehensive-cancer-center
1500 East Duarte Road
Duarte, California 91010-3000
(626) 256-HOPE (4673)
Salk Institute Cancer Center
Salk Institute
www.salk.edu/
10010 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, California 92037
(858) 453-4100
Sanford- Burnham Medical Research Institute
www.sanfordburnham.org
10901 North Torrey Pines Road
La Jolla, California 92037
(858) 646-3100
Rebecca and John Moores UCSD Cancer Center
University of California, San Diego
www.cancer.ucsd.edu/
3855 Health Sciences Drive, Room 2247
La Jolla, California 92093-0658
(858) 822-1222
Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of California Los Angeles
www.cancer.ucla.edu/
Factor Building, Room 8-684
10833 Le Conte Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90095-1781
(310) 825-5268
USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Southern California
http://www.uscnorris.com
1441 Eastlake Avenue, NOR 8302L
Los Angeles, California 90089-9181
(323) 865-0816
Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of California at Irvine
www.ucihs.uci.edu/cancer/
101 The City Drive
Building 56, Rt. 81, Room 216L
Orange, California 92868
(714) 456-6310
Stanford Cancer Center
Stanford University
http://cancer.stanford.edu/
800 Welch Road, Room 284
Stanford, CA 94305-5796
(650) 736-1808
UC Davis Cancer Center
University of California, Davis
www.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/cancer
4501 X Street, Suite 3003
Sacramento, California 95817
(916) 734-5800
UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of California San Francisco
www.cancer.ucsf.edu
2340 Sutter Street, Box 0128
San Francisco, California 94115-0128
(415) 502-1710
COLORADO
University of Colorado Cancer Center
University of Colorado at Denver &
Health Sciences Center
www.uccc.info
PO Box 6508, Mail Stop F434
13001 E. 17th Place
Aurora, Colorado 80045
(303) 724-3155
CONNECTICUT
Yale Cancer Center
Yale University School of Medicine
www.yalecancercenter.org
333 Cedar Street, Box 208028
New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8028
(203) 785-4371
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center
at Georgetown University
http://lombardi.georgetown.edu
3970 Reservoir Road, N.W.
Research Bldg., Suite E501
Washington, DC 20057
(202) 687-2110
FLORIDA
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
at the University of South Florida
www.moffitt.org
12902 Magnolia Drive, MCC-CEO
Tampa, Florida 33612-9497
(813) 615-4261
HAWAII
Cancer Research Center of Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa
www.crch.org
651 Ilalo Street, BSB 231-H
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
(808) 440-4596
ILLINOIS
University of Chicago Cancer Research Center
www-uccrc.uchicago.edu
5841 South Maryland Avenue, MC 2115
Chicago, Illinois 60637-1470
(773) 702-6180
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center
Northwestern University
www.cancer.northwestern.edu
303 E. Superior Street
Suite 3-125
Chicago, Illinois 60611
(312) 908-5250
INDIANA
Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center
www.cancer.iu.edu
Indiana Cancer Pavilion
535 Barnhill Drive, Room 455
Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5289
(317) 278-0070
Purdue University Cancer Center
www.purduecancercenter.com
Hansen Life Sciences Research Building
South University Street
West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-1524
(765) 494-9129
IOWA
Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center
The University of Iowa
www.uihealthcare.com/depts/cancercenter
5970 "Z" JPP
200 Hawkins Drive
Iowa City, Iowa 52242
(319) 353-8620
MAINE
The Jackson Laboratory Cancer Center
www.jax.org
600 Main Street
Bar Harbor, Maine 04609-0800
(207) 288-6041
MARYLAND
Greenebaum Cancer Center
University of Maryland
www.umgcc.org
22 South Greene Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
(410) 328-7904
Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center
at Johns Hopkins University
www.hopkinskimmelcancercenter.org
401 North Broadway
The Weinberg Building, Suite 1100
Baltimore, Maryland 21231
(410) 955-8822
MASSACHUSETTS
Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
www.dfhcc.harvard.edu
44 Binney Street, Rm. 1628
Boston, Massachusetts 02115
(617) 632-2100
(877) 420-3951
David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
http://web.mit.edu/ki/
77 Massachusetts Avenue, Room E17-110
Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139-4307
(617) 253-8511
MICHIGAN
University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Michigan
www.mcancer.org
6302 Cancer Center
1500 East Medical Center Drive
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-0942
(734) 936-1831
The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute
Wayne State University School of Medicine
www.karmanos.org
4100 John R
Detroit, Michigan 48201
(800) KARMANOS
MINNESOTA
Masonic Cancer Center
University of Minnesota
www.cancer.umn.edu
MMC 806, 420 Delaware Street, S.E.
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455
(612) 624-8484
(888) 226-2376
Mayo Clinic Cancer Center
Mayo Clinic Rochester
http://cancercenter.mayo.edu/
200 First Street, S.W.
Rochester, Minnesota 55905
(507) 266-4997
MISSOURI
Siteman Cancer Center
Washington University School of Medicine
www.siteman.wustl.edu
660 South Euclid Avenue, Campus Box 8109
St. Louis, Missouri 63110
(314) 362-8020
NEBRASKA
University of Nebraska Medical Center/ Eppley Cancer Center
www.unmc.edu/cancercenter
600 South 42nd Street
Omaha, Nebraska 68198-6805
(402) 559-4238
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Norris Cotton Cancer Center
Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
www.cancer.dartmouth.edu
One Medical Center Drive, Hinman Box 7920
Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756-0001
(603) 653-9000
NEW JERSEY
The Cancer Institute of New Jersey
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
www.cinj.org
195 Little Albany Street
New Brunswick, New Jersey 08903-2681
(732) 235-8064
NEW MEXICO
University of New Mexico Cancer Research & Treatment Center
University of New Mexico
www.cancer.unm.edu
1 University of New Mexico
2325 Camino de Salud
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131
(505) 272-5622
NEW YORK
Albert Einstein Cancer Research Center
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
www.aecom.yu.edu/cancer
Chanin Building, Room 209
1300 Morris Park Avenue
Bronx, New York 10461
(718) 430-2302
Roswell Park Cancer Institute
www.roswellpark.org
Elm & Carlton Streets
Buffalo, New York 14263-0001
(716) 845-5772
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
www.cshl.edu
P.O. Box 100
Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724
(516) 367-8383
NYU Cancer Institute
New York University Medical Center
http://ci.med.nyu.edu
550 First Avenue
New York, New York 10016
Tel: (212) 263-6485
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
www.mskcc.org/mskcc
1275 York Avenue
New York, New York 10021
(212) 639-2000
(800) 525-2225
Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center
College of Physicians & Surgeons
Columbia University
www.hiccc.columbia.edu
1130 St. Nicholas Avenue
Room 508
New York, New York 10032
(212) 851-5273
NORTH CAROLINA
UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
www.unclineberger.org
102 Mason Farm Rd., CB 7295
Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7295
(919) 966-3036
Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center
Duke University Medical Center
http://cancer.duke.edu
Box 2714
Durham, North Carolina 27710
(919) 684-5613
Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center
Wake Forest University
www.wfubmc.edu/cancer
Medical Center Boulevard
Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157-1082
(336) 716-7971
OHIO
Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Case Western Reserve University
http://cancer.case.edu/
11100 Euclid Ave., Wearn 151
Cleveland, Ohio 44106-5065
(216) 844-8562
Comprehensive Cancer Center
The Ohio State University
http://cancer.osu.edu
OSU James Cancer Hospital
300 W. 10th Ave., Suite 519
Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 293-7521
OREGON
OHSU Cancer Institute
Oregon Health & Science University
www.ohsucancer.com/
3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Rd., CR145
Portland, Oregon 97239-3098
(503) 494-1617
PENNSYLVANIA
Abramson Cancer Center
University of Pennsylvania
www.penncancer.org/
16th Floor Penn Tower
3400 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-4283
(215) 662-6065
The Wistar Institute
www.wistar.org
3601 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-4268
(215) 898-3926
Fox Chase Cancer Center
www.fccc.edu
333 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19111
(215) 728-3636
Kimmel Cancer Center
Thomas Jefferson University
www.kcc.tju.edu
233 South 10th Street
BLSB, Room 1050
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107-5799
(215) 503-5692
University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute
www.upci.upmc.edu
UPMC Cancer Pavilion
5150 Centre Avenue, Suite 500
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15232
(412) 623-3205
TENNESSEE
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
www.stjude.org
262 Danny Thomas Place
Memphis, Tennessee 38105-3678
(901) 595-3982
Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center
Vanderbilt University
www.vicc.org
691 Preston Research Building
Nashville, Tennessee 37232-6838
(615) 936-1782
TEXAS
Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center
Baylor College of Medicine
www.bcm.edu/cancercenter
One Baylor Plaza
MS: BCM305
Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 798-1354
Cancer Therapy & Research Center
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
www.ctrc.net/ctrc_home.cfm?db_content=home
7979 Wurzbach Road, Mail Code 8026
Urschel Tower, Room U627
San Antonio, Texas 78229
(210) 567-2711
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
University of Texas
www.mdanderson.org
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77030
(713) 792-2121
UTAH
Huntsman Cancer Institute
University of Utah
www.huntsmancancer.org/
2000 Circle of Hope
Salt Lake City, Utah 84112-5550
(801) 581-4485
VIRGINIA
UVA Cancer Center
University of Virginia, Health Sciences Center
www.healthsystem.virginia.edu/internet/cancer/
MSB West Complex
Jefferson Park Ave., Room 6171E
Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
(434) 243-6784
Massey Cancer Center
Virginia Commonwealth University
www.massey.vcu.edu/
P.O. Box 980037
Richmond, Virginia 23298-0037
(804) 828-0450
WASHINGTON
Fred Hutchinson/University of Washington
Cancer Consortium
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
www.cancerconsortium.org/
P.O. Box 19024, D1-060
Seattle, Washington 98109-1024
(206) 667-4305
WISCONSIN
UW Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Wisconsin
www.cancer.wisc.edu/uwccc/index.asp
600 Highland Ave., Rm. K4/610
Madison, Wisconsin 53792-0001
(608) 263-8610
| January • Cervical Cancer |
Februrary |
March • Colorectal Cancer |
| April • National Cancer Control Month • National Minority Cancer Awareness Week (April 18-24) |
May • Skin Cancer • Cancer Research Month • Melanoma • Women's Health/Cancer Awareness (Mother’s Day: May 9) • National Women's Health Week (May 9-15) |
June • National Cancer Survivors Day (June 6) • Men's Health/Cancer Awareness Week (Father's Day-June 20) |
| July • Sarcoma Cancer |
August |
September • Ovarian Cancer • Childhood Cancer • Gynecologic Cancer • Leukemia and Lymphoma • Prostate Cancer |
| October • Breast Cancer • National Mammography Day (Oct. 15) |
November • Lung Cancer • National Family Caregivers Month • Pancreatic Cancer |
December |
The following list contains words that you’ll hear your healthcare team use. Knowing the meaning of these terms may be helpful to you throughout your cancer treatment.
Adenocarcinoma: Cancer that starts in the glandular tissue, such as in the ducts or lobules of the breast.
Adjuant Therapy: Treatment used in addition to the main treatment. It usually refers to treatment. It usually refers to treatment after surgery to increase the chances of curing the disease or keep it in check.
Alopecia: Partial or complete loss of hair resulting from radiotherapy or chemotherapy. It is usually short term.
Anemia: A condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells. This may be due to bleeding or lack of blood production by the bone marrow. Symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath and weakness.
Angiogensis: The formation of new blood vessles. Some cancer treatments work by blocking angiogenesis, thus preventing blood from reaching the tumor.
Antiemetics: Drugs given to minimize or prevent nausea and vomiting.
Ascites: An accumulation of fluid within the abdomen that can occur in women with non cancerous conditions and with different types of cancers.
Benign: Non-cancerous.
Biopsy: A surgery performed to remove tissue for examination in order to determine whether cancer is present.
Blood Cell Count: The number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in a sample of blood. This is also called complete blood count (CBC).
Bone marrow: The inner, spongy tissue of bones where blood cells are made.
Brachytherapy: Internal radiation treatment given by placing radioactive material directly into the tumor or close to it.
CBC (Complete Blood Count): A series of tests including red and white blood cell and platelet counts, hemoglobin and cell volume measurement.
Cancer: Any group of diseases whose symptoms are due to the unrestrained growth of cells in one of the body organs or tissues.
Carcinogens: Substances known to cause and/or promote cancer.
Carcinoma: Cancer that begins in the internal tissues.
Catheter: A thin, flexible tube. Doctors use these to place fluids in your body or as a way for fluids to leave your body.
Chemotherapy: The treatment of cancer by chemicals (drugs) designed to destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing. Chemotherapy is often used with surgery or radiation to treat cancer.
Clinical Trials: Medical research studies done in patient volunteers. Each study is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to detect, prevent, or treat cancer or its side effects.
Complete Response: Disappearance of all signs of cancer as a result of treatment; does not always equate to a cure.
CT or CAT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography): A diagnostic procedure that combines an x-ray with a computer to produce highly-detailed cross-sectional, three-dimensional pictures of the entire body. These tests are generally 100 times more sensitive than x-rays.
Cyst: A fluid-filled sac.
Cytotoxic: Toxic to cells; cell-killing
Diagnosis: The act of identifying a disease from its signs and symptoms.
Edema: Swelling due to the accumulation of fluid within the tissues.
Enzyme: Proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in living cells.
Estrogen: Female sex hormone secreted primarily by the ovaries that is responsible for the secondary sex characteristics such as the growth of breasts.
Estrogen Receptor Test: A test done during the biopsy of cancerous tissue to determine if its growth depends on estrogen.
Fatigue: The feeling of being tired physically, mentally, and emotionally. Cancer-related fatigue persists over time and can interfere with usual activities. This fatigue is different from the fatigue of everyday life, which is usually short term and relieved by rest.
Gene: A segment of DNA that contains information on hereditary characteristics, such as hair color, eye color, and height, as well as susceptibility to certain diseases.
Genetic Testing: Tests performed to see if a person has certain gene changes known to increase cancer risk. Such testing is recommended for those.
Grade: Reflects how abnormal the cancer looks under the microscope. There are several grading systems for different types of cancer. Each grading system divides cancer into those with the greatest abnormality, the least abnormality, and those in between.
Hematologist: A physician (internist) who specializes in blood diseases.
Hormones: Naturally-occurring substances that are released by the endocrine organs and circulated in the blood. Hormones control growth, metabolism, reproduction and other functions.
Hysterectomy: Surgical removal of the uterus.
Infusion: Slow intravenous delivery of a drug or fluids.
Intravenous (IV): Administration of drugs or fluids directly into a vein.
Malignant: A term used to describe a cancerous tumor.
Metastasis: The spread of cancer from one part of the body to another through the lymph system or bloodstream.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): A new, sophisticated technique to examine the body using powerful electromagnets, radiofrequency waves and a computer to produce internal pictures of the body.
Oncologist: A physician who specializes in cancer therapy and handles general medical problems that arise during the disease.
Peripheral Neuropathy: A condition of the nervous system that usually begins in the hands and/or feet with symptoms of numbness, tingling, burning, and/or weakness. It can be caused by some chemo drugs.
Platelets: Special blood cells that plug up damaged blood vessels and help blood clot to stop bleeding.
Prognosis: A statement about the likely outcome of disease in a particular patient.
Protocol: A formalized plan for treatment.
Radiation Therapy: The use of high-energy rays or subatomic particles to treat disease. Types of radiation include x-ray, electron beam, alpha and beta particles, and gamma ray.
Recurrence: Reappearance of cancer.
Red Blood Cells: Cells that carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body.
Remission: The partial or complete disappearance of signs and symptoms of disease.
Scan: A study using x-rays to produce images of internal body organs.
Staging: The stages that describe how far a cancer has progressed, based on the size
of the primary tumor and on whether and where it has spread.
Stomatitis: Sores on the lining of the mouth.
Thrombocytopenia: An abnormally low number of platelets due to disease, reaction to a drug, or toxic reaction to treatments.
Topical: Put directly to the skin.
Transfusion: The administration of donated blood.
Tumor: An abnormal growth of cells or tissues. Tumors are either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
White Blood Cells: The blood cells that fight infection.
Cancer, also called malignancy, is characterized by an abnormal growth of cells. Below is a list of cancer types and definitions. For a complete list, visit the National Cancer Institute’s website at www.cancer.gov
Anal Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the anus. The anus is the opening of the rectum (last part of the large intestine) to the outside of the body.
Bladder Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the bladder (the organ that stores urine). Most bladder cancers are transitional cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in cells that normally make up the inner lining of the bladder). Other types include squamous cell carcinoma (cancer that begins in thin, flat cells) and adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids). The cells that form squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma develop in the inner lining of the bladder as a result of chronic irritation and inflammation.
Bone Cancer: Primary bone cancer is cancer that forms in cells of the bone. Some types of primary bone cancer are osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, and chondrosarcoma. Secondary bone cancer is cancer that spreads to the bone from another part of the body (such as the prostate, breast, or lung).
Brain Tumor: The growth of abnormal cells in the tissues of the brain. Brain tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Breast Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the breast, usually the ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple) and lobules (glands that make milk). It occurs in both men and women, although male breast cancer is rare.
Cervical Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the cervix (the organ connecting the uterus and vagina). It is usually a slow-growing cancer that may not have symptoms but can be found with regular Pap tests.
Colon Cancer: Cancer that forms in the tissues of the colon (the longest part of the large intestine). Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
Endometrial Cancer: Cancer that forms in the tissue lining the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis in which a baby grows). Most endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas (cancers that begin in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
Esophageal Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues lining the esophagus (the muscular tube through which food passes from the throat to the stomach). Two types of esophageal cancer are squamous cell carcinoma (cancer that begins in flat cells lining the esophagus) and adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids).
Extragonadal Germ Cell Tumor: A rare cancer that develops in germ cells that are found in areas of the body other than the ovary or testicle (such as the brain, chest, abdomen, or tailbone). Germ cells are reproductive cells that develop into sperm in males and eggs in females.
Gallbladder Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ below the liver that collects and stores bile (a fluid made by the liver to digest fat). Gallbladder cancer begins in the innermost layer of tissue and spreads through the outer layers as it grows.
Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumor: An indolent (slow-growing) cancer that forms in cells that make hormones in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract (the stomach and intestines). It usually occurs in the appendix (a small fingerlike pouch of the large intestine), small intestine, or rectum. Having gastrointestinal carcinoid tumor increases the risk of forming other cancers of the digestive system.
Head and Neck Cancer: Cancer that arises in the head or neck region (in the nasal cavity, sinuses, lips, mouth, salivary glands, throat, or larynx [voice box]).
Leukemia: Cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow and causes large numbers of blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream.
Lung Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the lung, usually in the cells lining air passages. The two main types are small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer.
Hodgkin Lymphoma: A cancer of the immune system that is marked by the presence of a type of cell called the Reed-Sternberg cell. The two major types of Hodgkin lymphoma are classical Hodgkin lymphoma and nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma.
Islet Cell Tumor: A mass of abnormal cells that forms in the endocrine (hormone-producing) tissues of the pancreas. Islet cell tumors may be benign (noncancer) or malignant (cancerous)
Kidney Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the kidneys. Kidney cancer includes renal cell carcinoma (cancer that forms in the lining of very small tubes in the kidney that filter the blood and remove waste products) and renal pelvis carcinoma (cancer that forms in the center of the kidney where urine collects). It also includes Wilms tumor, which is a type of kidney cancer that usually develops in children under the age of 5.
Leukemia: Cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow and causes large numbers of blood cells to be produced and enter the bloodstream.
Liver Cancer: Primary liver cancer is cancer that forms in the tissues of the liver. Secondary liver cancer is cancer that spreads to the liver from another part of the body.
Malignant Mesothelioma: A rare type of cancer in which malignant cells are found in the lining of the chest or abdomen. Exposure to airborne asbestos particles increases one's risk of developing malignant mesothelioma.
Melanoma: A form of cancer that begins in melanocytes (cells that make the pigment melanin). It may begin in a mole (skin melanoma), but can also begin in other pigmented tissues, such as in the eye or in the intestines.
Multiple Myeloma: A type of cancer that begins in plasma cells (white blood cells that produce antibodies). Also called Kahler disease, myelomatosis, and plasma cell myeloma.
Neuroblastoma: Cancer that arises in immature nerve cells and affects mostly infants and children.
Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Any of a large group of cancers of the immune system. Non-Hodgkin lymphomas can occur at any age and are often marked by enlarged lymph nodes, fever, and weight loss. There are many different types of Non-Hodgkin lymphomas which can be divided into aggressive (fast-growing) and indolent (slow-growing) types and can be classified as either B-cell or T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas include Burkitt lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, immunoblastic large cell lymphoma, precursor B-lymphoblastic lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma. T-cell Non-Hodgkin lymphomas include mycosis fungoides, anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and precursor T-lymphoblastic lymphoma. Lymphomas related to lymphoproliferative disorders following bone marrow or stem cell transplantation are usually B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Prognosis and treatment depend on the stage and type of disease. Also called NHL.
Oral Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the lip or mouth. This includes the front two thirds of the tongue, the upper and lower gums, the lining inside the cheeks and lips, the bottom of the mouth under the tongue, the bony top of the mouth, and the small area behind the wisdom teeth.
Ovarian Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the ovary (one of a pair of female reproductive glands in which the ova, or eggs, are formed). Most ovarian cancers are either ovarian epithelial carcinomas (cancer that begins in the cells on the surface of the ovary) or malignant germ cell tumors (cancer that begins in egg cells).
Pancreatic Cancer: A disease in which malignant (cancer) cells are found in the tissues of the pancreas. Also called exocrine cancer.
Parathyroid Cancer: A rare cancer that forms in tissues of one or more of the parathyroid glands (four pea-sized glands in the neck that make parathyroid hormone, which helps the body store and use calcium).
Penile Cancer: A rare cancer that forms in the penis (an external male reproductive organ). Most penile cancers are squamous cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in flat cells lining the penis).
Pituitary Tumor: A tumor that forms in the pituitary gland. The pituitary is a pea-sized organ in the center of the brain above the back of the nose. It makes hormones that affect other glands and many body functions, especially growth. Most pituitary tumors are benign (not cancer).
Prostate Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the prostate (a gland in the male reproductive system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum). Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men.
Rectal Cancer: Cancer that forms in the tissues of the rectum (the last several inches of the large intestine closest to the anus).
Retinoblastoma: Cancer that forms in the tissues of the retina (the light-sensitive layers of nerve tissue at the back of the eye). Retinoblastoma usually occurs in children younger than 5 years. It may be hereditary or nonhereditary (sporadic).
Skin Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the skin. There are several types of skin cancer. Skin cancer that forms in melanocytes (skin cells that make pigment) is called melanoma. Skin cancer that forms in basal cells (small, round cells in the base of the outer layer of skin) is called basal cell carcinoma. Skin cancer that forms in squamous cells (flat cells that form the surface of the skin) is called squamous cell carcinoma. Skin cancer that forms in neuroendocrine cells (cells that release hormones in response to signals from the nervous system) is called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. Most skin cancers form in older people on parts of the body exposed to the sun or in people who have weakened immune systems.
Small Intestine Cancer: A rare cancer that forms in tissues of the small intestine (the part of the digestive tract between the stomach and the large intestine). The most common type is adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids). Other types of small intestine cancer include sarcoma (cancer that begins in connective or supportive tissue), carcinoid tumor (a slow-growing type of cancer), gastrointestinal stromal tumor (a type of soft tissue sarcoma), and lymphoma (cancer that begins in immune system cells).
Stomach Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues lining the stomach. Also called gastric cancer.
Testicular Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the testis (one of two egg-shaped glands inside the scrotum that make sperm and male hormones). Testicular cancer usually occurs in young or middle-aged men. Two main types of testicular cancer are seminomas (cancers that grow slowly and are sensitive to radiation therapy) and nonseminomas (different cell types that grow more quickly than seminomas).
Throat Cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the pharynx (the hollow tube inside the neck that starts behind the nose and ends at the top of the windpipe and esophagus). Throat cancer includes cancer of the nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat behind the nose), the oropharynx (the middle part of the pharynx), and the hypopharynx (the bottom part of the pharynx). Cancer of the larynx (voice box) may also be included as a type of throat cancer. Most throat cancers are squamous cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in thin, flat cells that look like fish scales). Also called pharyngeal cancer.
Thyroid Cancer: Cancer that forms in the thyroid gland (an organ at the base of the throat that makes hormones that help control heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight). Four main types of thyroid cancer are papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer. The four types are based on how the cancer cells look under a microscope.
Uterine Sarcoma: A rare type of uterine cancer that forms in muscle or other tissues of the uterus (the small, hollow, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis in which a baby grows). It usually occurs after menopause. The two main types are leiomyosarcoma (cancer that begins in smooth muscle cells) and endometrial stromal sarcoma (cancer that begins in connective tissue cells).
Vaginal Cancer: Cancer that forms in the tissues of the vagina (birth canal). The vagina leads from the cervix (the opening of the uterus) to the outside of the body. The most common type of vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which starts in the thin, flat cells lining the vagina. Another type of vaginal cancer is adenocarcinoma, cancer that begins in glandular cells in the lining of the vagina.
Vulvar Cancer: Cancer of the vulva (the external female genital organs, including the clitoris, vaginal lips, and the opening to the vagina).