Feb 7, 2023 | Southern Arizona
Cancer treatment continues to advance, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of it with our brand-new Halcyon Linac by Varian. This state-of-the-art radiotherapy system offers faster treatment in a spacious, patient-centered design, while incorporating volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) to deliver a consistent radiation dose to tumors while minimizing the dose to healthy tissue.
Dr. Neil D’Souza is a radiation oncologist at our Goodyear location who has firsthand experience with this revolutionary machine. We asked him to share, in layman’s terms, exactly what makes the Halcyon Linac so special.
It’s fast
One of the most exciting features of the Halcyon are its reduced treatment times. “The system is likely the fastest available machine on the market,” Dr. D’Souza says. According to Varian, complex treatments that used to take 30 steps to deliver now only take nine. Besides less time spent on the table, the speed of the machine also means patients won’t have to hold their breath as long to minimize movement during treatments for tumors in the liver or lung, for example. When it comes to patient comfort, these improvements make a world of difference.
It’s accurate
The goal of radiation therapy is to deliver an appropriate dose of radiation to a cancerous tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy surrounding tissues. The Halcyon uses a type of radiation therapy known as volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT)–one of the newest forms of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and the most accurate technology available.
Dr. D’Souza explains, “VMAT treats tumors using an ‘arc’ of fifty to eighty plus beams from many different angles, enabling the machine to shape the radiation dose directly for the target, reducing side effects. The Halcyon is the most efficient machine for this particular form of treatment.”
It’s comfortable
Let’s face it, radiation treatment can be scary. Varian took this into account when designing the machine, which looks a lot like a CT scanner, a piece of equipment many people are familiar and comfortable with. “Patients who have been treated on the Halcyon generally love the approachability, familiarity, and speed of the setup and treatment on this machine,” Dr. D’Souza says. The machine is also the quietest model yet.
The staff love it, too
Designed for ease of use by clinicians, the Halcyon gets a thumbs-up from the Arizona Oncology Goodyear staff as well. With built-in cone-beam CT image-guidance, the Halcyon allows the radiology team to “see” the tumor inside the patient at higher resolutions than ever before.
Says Dr. D’Souza, “The staff love the Halcyon because of its cutting-edge technology, speed of treatments, ease of setup, as well as the superior image-guidance capability which enables us to see the tumor well before the radiation is released from the machine.”
Leading Radiation Therapy in Goodyear, Arizona
Arizona Oncology is the only community-based cancer center in the West Valley to offer breast surgical oncology, radiation, and medical oncology all under one roof. The addition of the Halcyon Linac by Varian fits with our model of providing premier cancer care close to home.
Dr. D’Souza is pleased with the new acquisition and its performance so far: “Along with our very friendly team of therapists and assistants, I believe the new machine offers patients access to the most accurate and patient-friendly radiation treatment on this side of the metro.”
Jan 12, 2023 | Southern Arizona
Jackie Dominguez had a very aggressive form of breast cancer, but with a multidisciplinary cancer care team who cared for her both physically and emotionally, she’s thriving with and beyond cancer.
“The doctor was kind enough to not make me wait for the results. I’ll never forget that,” Jackie said. “But he also said that it wasn’t a death sentence. He just reassured me that I wasn’t going to die from this.”
Jackie chose Arizona Oncology for treatment for her breast cancer. For most patients with breast cancer, surgery is the first step, and Jackie went to see an Arizona Oncology breast surgical oncologist in northern Arizona.
“Jackie came in with a very aggressive cancer,” her surgeon said. “She came in with multiple lymph nodes involved and the features of the cancer that make it very aggressive and difficult, sometimes, to treat.” Because of this, a chemotherapy-first approach was the best option for Jackie. “We were able to do that today with this comprehensive care that we offer.”
“I was referred from my gynecologist,” Jackie explained. “When I called her, she did tell me I needed to get with an oncologist first. So I made my appointment with Dr. Nagaiah, and that same day I went right over and I saw both of them the same day.”
Multidisciplinary Care
Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care is the cornerstone of Arizona Oncology’s approach to cancer treatment. We offer state-of-the-art chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, and surgical treatments, all within one practice. Our multiple locations across the state ensure you receive the care you need close to home.
“Cancer care is evolving rapidly, and we at Arizona Oncology embrace new technology,” said Govardhanan Nagaiah, MD, medical oncologist and hematologist working out of our Goodyear office. “All of our patients get next generation sequencing, all of our patients have access to state-of-the-art clinical trials, all of our patients have access to state-of-the-art radiation oncology.”
The next generation sequencing Dr. Nagaiah is referring to is a form of genomic testing. Not to be confused with genetic testing, which looks at inherited traits that affect cancer risk, genomic tests look directly at tumor tissue to help determine the best way to treat a particular cancer. Arizona Oncology offers both.
Comprehensive Care
“It was life-changing because before I had cancer, my life was defined by my work,” Jackie said. “I wasn’t going to slow down, and I was not going to shift my priorities. I didn’t have a choice once I got breast cancer. I had to slow down, physically and mentally.”
Comprehensive cancer care includes caring for the patient as a whole, physically, mentally and emotionally. Our nurse navigators help coordinate appointments and streamline processes. Our social workers offer real-world support, education, and strategies for managing life with cancer.
Jackie appreciated the support she got from staff throughout her cancer care journey. They talked her through the entire process. She felt like she was in a safe space during a frightening time.
At Arizona Oncology, we understand that cancer is personal. We never lose sight of the fact that you are an individual going through one of the most difficult circumstances of your life. Our care is focused on getting you through this, so that cancer can become just a “blip” on your radar.
“I have a whole different perspective in life,” Jackie said. “Family and friends and my religion is the most important thing to me now.”
Jan 8, 2023 | Southern Arizona
Of all the cancers, lung cancer is claiming the most lives of men and women every year in the United States. If you are a smoker, then it likely concerns you that smokers have the greatest risk of developing lung cancer according to the CDC. The good news though is that even after a lifetime of smoking, you can substantially reduce your risk of getting lung cancer if you stop smoking now. This article explores practical tips that can help you to quit smoking and as a result, reduce your lung cancer risk.
What Practical Steps Can Smokers Take to Reduce Their Lung Cancer Risk?
- Go Cold Turkey or Cut Your Tobacco Consumption in Half
- Eliminate the Smoking Temptations
- Clean House
- Develop Other New Habits
- Be Mindful of Smoking Triggers
- Rally Support
- Treat Yourself
Go Cold Turkey or Cut Your Tobacco Consumption in Half
A study by the Journal of the American Medical Association found that although quitting smoking decreased lung cancer risk, there was also a benefit to cutting tobacco consumption in half. They found that there was a 27% decrease in lung cancer among those participants who reduced their smoking by 62%. JAMA also reported a 90% reduction in cancer risk for those who quit smoking before middle age. Therefore, for the greatest lung cancer risk reduction, you should quit today. But if you are not ready to go cold turkey just yet, then at least aim for reducing the amount you smoke daily while you work on making a plan for quitting in the coming days and weeks.
Eliminate the Smoking Temptations
Naturally, you need to eliminate every trace of the tobacco product you are trying to quit. That means, cleaning out drawers, nightstands, garage workspaces, any possible place that even one singular cigarette or cigar might be lurking. Even though you may want to prove your willpower by keeping a stray around, recognize that smoking is one of the toughest addictions that exists and there is no time to waste with testing the waters. If your significant other or housemate is a smoker and not interested in joining you in this endeavor, insist that they keep all smoking paraphernalia out of your sight and that smoking be done out of the house only.
Clean House
In addition to ridding yourself of all tobacco products, give yourself a fresh start by cleaning house. Over the years you may not realize the stench that smoking has left behind, in your home, on your clothes and in your car. As your sense of smell becomes sharper after quitting smoking, you may even become more sensitive to the smell of cigarettes on others. Depending on your time and finances you may consider cleaning your carpets, upholstery, curtains and even putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls. After investing in this clean start, it may make you think twice about reaching for that pack of cigarettes again.
Develop Other New Habits
Researchers debate on how long it actually takes to develop a new habit and it is commonly believed that you need at least two months to ingrain a new habit in your life. As you attempt to rid yourself of this old smoking habit, replace it with healthier and enjoyable activities. Think about the times of day that you feel the need to smoke and replace that old activity with a new one. Do not expect that this will be easy. The first few days to weeks are going to be the most challenging. But distracting yourself with a new healthier habit may help you to navigate this time. Instead of smoking you could try;
- Playing a game on your phone
- Calling or messaging a friend
- Taking a walk or stroll
- Go to the gym
- Go shopping
Be Mindful of Smoking Triggers
Think ahead about potential triggers, what environments or times of day you feel the need to smoke? Is it first thing in the morning? Try to get out of the house or to walk around the block. Is it while on break with co-workers? Then aim to avoid those break area spots popular for smoke breaks and look to find another spot to take your breaks. Do you typically smoke while drinking coffee or having a beer. Substitute these potential triggers for other things while you work through the cravings.
Rally Support
Don’t go it alone. Tell your friends, family and co-workers about your efforts and include them on the progress you are making and challenges that you are experiencing. You may be surprised to learn of others who are trying to quit as well and be able to help one another. You may also consider joining Freedom From Smoking, an initiative by the American Lung Association that offers an online support group, group clinics, a helpline and more.
Treat Yourself
Calculate the expense and put it to paper, how much you will be saving by not smoking. CNN Money rates smoking as one of the biggest money wasters and estimates that many smokers spend on average $70 weekly or $280 a month on their habit. That comes to $3,360 a year. Imagine the ways you could spend that extra money on yourself. It might be a great incentive to save for that trip or cruise you’ve been dreaming of taking. Or this could be the perfect opportunity for you to get into that hobby or sport that your smoking habit and lungs could not tolerate before.
Don’t Give Up
Set backs are normal and will likely be part of your experience. Don’t use a relapse as an excuse to give up but learn from it. It is never a failure as long as you keep trying and don’t be afraid to talk about your feelings and frustrations with a trusted friend.
Quitting smoking will be one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and to those that love you. Not only will you reduce your lung cancer risk but will also help your body to heal from other illnesses and protect yourself from other forms of cancer. At Arizona Oncology, our expert and compassionate oncologist are committed to helping you achieve the highest quality of life while you navigate your cancer treatment.
Dec 18, 2022 | Southern Arizona
The internet contains many valuable sources of information about cancer. Unfortunately, it’s also used to spread fear through myths and misconceptions that are repeated so often that many people believe they’re true. These 12 statements about cancer are often relayed as fact. However, they are really myths.
Myths About Cancer
- A cancer diagnosis means the end of life.
- Cutting out sugar will cure cancer.
- Cancer is caused by artificial sweeteners.
- A biopsy or surgery will cause cancer to spread.
- Cancer cures are being withheld.
- Cancer is a modern disease created by humans.
- Smartphones cause cancer.
- Advances in technology mean we should have cured cancer by now.
- Cancer is contagious.
- Superfoods can stop cancer.
- No family history of cancer means you’re not at risk.
- Cosmetics cause cancer.
Debunking the Myths
No matter where you heard them, these myths aren’t true. Keep reading to learn the truth behind the myths.
1. A cancer diagnosis means the end of life.
False. Cancer has never been considered a death sentence and survival rates are growing. The death rate due to cancer in the U.S. has dropped 27% in the last 25 years. The five-year survival rate from thyroid, breast, and prostate cancer is currently 90%. Major factors in this change include reduced smoking rates, early detection, and early treatment. Other factors that affect survival rates include the types of treatment available and how much cancer has spread.
2. Cutting sugar will cure cancer.
False. Though it’s a common misconception that cancer thrives on sugar, your diet alone cannot cure cancer. This myth might stem from the fact that cancer cells consume more glucose than normal cells. However, reducing or cutting out sugar will not shrink cancer cells. High sugar intake has been proven to contribute to obesity which is linked to increased risk of cancer.
3. Cancer is caused by artificial sweeteners.
False. Artificial sweeteners aren’t made by chemicals or anything that increases the risk of cancer. In fact, most of them have been approved by the FDA. They are simply a way to sweeten foods without sugar.
4. A biopsy or surgery will cause cancer to spread.
False. This is a particularly dangerous misconception. Early diagnosis is one of the best weapons in the fight against cancer and avoiding tests and treatment can lower your odds of survival. Some people believe that cancers exposed to air or punctured by a needle or during surgery will spread to other tissue. There is no surgical data supporting the idea that exposure to air spreads cancer. Modern surgeons also take preventative measures to ensure that cancer cells don’t spread to other parts of the body during surgery.
5. Cancer cures are being withheld.
False. Some beliefs that fuel this myth include the idea that cures are either too expensive to create or the government uses disease to control the population. However, neither of these ideas are true. The FDA and cancer care teams around the world are continuously making advances in the fight against cancer. However, every treatment must face rigorous safety tests to ensure there are no dangerous risks. Creating medicines that are safe as well as effective often means they are slow to get to market.
6. Cancer is a modern disease created by humans.
False. While humans have created many things that aren’t kind to the environment, cancer existed long before we can imagine. In fact, dinosaur bones have been discovered with cancer. Recently, the femur of a 240 million-year-old ancestor to turtles was discovered with evidence of bone cancer. Longer life expectancy and better tools for diagnosis make it seem like more cancer exists today.
7. Smartphones cause cancer.
False. There’s currently no evidence to support the idea that any cell phones are capable of causing cancer. Cancer is caused by gene mutations and low-frequency energy emitted by cell phones doesn’t mutate genes. Multiple studies have been conducted about the link of cell phones to cancer and no connection has been discovered.
Related reading: Breast Cancer Misconceptions
8. Advances in technology mean we should have cured cancer by now.
False. Cancer is a complicated disease that mutates healthy human cells. The word cancer is used to describe over 100 related diseases which often have different properties. Additionally, the cells continue to mutate over the course of the disease, making it harder to study. Major advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, but there is still much to learn.
9. Cancer is contagious.
False. While a family history of cancer may increase the odds of someone developing the disease, no types of cancer can be passed from person to person. There is an extremely low chance that the recipient of an organ transplant may contract cancer from donor tissue. However, surgeons avoid using organs of patients with a history of cancer. Some viruses that cause cancer (like HPV) can be transmitted from one person to another but cancer isn’t contagious.
10. Superfoods can stop cancer.
False. While a healthy diet can help improve the way you feel, it cannot remove cancer from your system. Raw fruits and vegetables are a quality addition to a healthy lifestyle that can help you prevent obesity and other cancer risks. Superfoods are simply healthy choices not foods with superpowers.
11. No family history of cancer means you’re not at risk.
False. While it’s true that family history may increase your risks, cancer is not strictly a genetic disease. Only 5% to 10% of cancers are passed from parents to children. Genetic mutations usually caused by environmental factors and lifestyle choices are the most common causes of cancer.
12. Certain cosmetics cause cancer.
False. It’s a common misconception that since deodorant is applied under your arms near breast tissue it causes breast cancer. Additionally, many people think hair dye or other processes that use strong-smelling chemicals cause cancer. There is no evidence that the chemicals found in deodorants or antiperspirants cause changes in breast tissue. Additionally, there is no evidence that personal hair dye use increases your risk of cancer.
Knowledge is power, and eliminating common myths is one way of spreading knowledge.
Dec 7, 2022 | Southern Arizona
It’s the most wonderful time of the year—except when it isn’t.
Facing the holidays with cancer presents unique challenges. It’s very common to experience a mixture of anticipation, excitement, and apprehension. The social workers at Arizona Oncology work with our patients to help them prepare for and cope with holiday-related pressures. Here are some of their tips.
P Plan in Advance. In previous years you may have had the energy to pack the holiday season full of activities, traveling, and shopping. This year, however, doctor appointments, treatment side effects, and low energy may prevent that. Plan ahead for activities, giving yourself plenty of downtime. Setting realistic expectations and boundaries will help you to fully enjoy the things that do make it onto your calendar.
E Enlist Support. Delegation is a key success strategy taught by leadership experts, and it can help you, too! Ask family and friends to help with cooking, decorating, shopping, and gift-wrapping. Letting someone else do the heavy lifting of holiday activities is a great way to spend time with them and get things done without wearing yourself out.
A Adjust Traditions. It’s okay if traditions need to change while you’re undergoing cancer treatment. Let this be an opportunity to enjoy a quiet, more introspective holiday. You may even discover new traditions that you’d like to carry forward in years to come.
C Celebrate Your Strengths. Many individuals and families discover strengths they didn’t know they had when going through a cancer journey. Don’t downplay what you’ve accomplished. You are a survivor and a thriver!
E Engage in Simple Pleasures. In our culture, we tend to want to “go big or go home.” There is value, however, in the simple, delicate joys of life. A cup of herbal tea and a book under the holiday lights. Enjoying the children’s antics from a spot on the sidelines. Unhurried conversations. The smell of pine, woodfire, and baking. Some call it “mindfulness” or “being present.” Whatever you call it, it is good for the soul.
L Learn to Say No. You don’t have to go to every party, support every group, or attend every event—people will understand. If you aren’t up for hosting the meal this year or putting family members up in your home, be clear and firm. They can (and will) figure something out. Your loved ones don’t want to cause you additional stress, but they might not know what you need unless you tell them.
O Open a Dialogue with Your Provider. If you have holiday plans, ask to schedule treatments and other appointments around them. Don’t forget to take into consideration how you might feel the evening or day after a treatment. It’s okay to make space around important events. Your providers will do their best to be flexible.
V Validate Your Feelings. Give yourself permission to feel and express your feelings, whatever they are. Joy, fear, sadness, pain—these are all normal and okay. Let yourself laugh or cry. Tears can bring a sense of relief. Laughter can be relaxing. Sharing how you feel with someone else can bring comfort.
E Encourage Reflection. Holidays are a season of reflection. Embrace this moment and look back at what brought you to it. Has your cancer journey taught you anything about the people, places, and responsibilities in your life? Have you learned anything about yourself? Can you use that knowledge to make your life better moving forward? What do you still hope to learn?
J Join the online shopping movement. The internet has officially given you permission to avoid crowds, exhaustion, and potential exposure while you are going through cancer treatment. While a quick trip to a local shop probably won’t be too taxing, hitting the malls and big retailers can be. Put on some holiday music while you browse the online marketplace, and let’s be grateful for technology!
O Opt for Distractions. If the holidays are a difficult time for you because of cancer or other personal reasons, distractions can be a good way to cope. Binge a TV show or movie marathon, plan and fix a fancy dinner, watch sports, play cards with friends, catch up on your reading, or take a drive or walk to look at holiday lights.
Y “You” Time. With all of the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to focus on yourself. Eat balanced meals. Make time to exercise and get fresh air. Physical activity is a great way to release tension. Indulge in self care like taking a bath, getting a massage or pedicure, and treating yourself to a tasty treat now and again.
The holiday season is a time of sharing, tradition and renewal of hope. That doesn’t change when you have cancer, but it may need to adjust. Whatever your holidays bring this year, we wish you peace, love, joy, and beautiful new memories.
Happy Holidays from all of us at Arizona Oncology!
Nov 14, 2022 | Southern Arizona
November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. Research has made great strides surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. Not counting non-melanoma skin cancers, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women. The American Cancer Society reports that the lifetime chance of developing lung cancer is 1 in 15 for men and 1 in 17 for women. For those who smoke, the risk is much higher.
Low Dose CT Scan for Lung Cancer Screening
Cancer is more treatable when caught early. Lung cancer often isn’t caught until it is well advanced, but low dose CT lung cancer screening (LDCT scan) is changing that. LDCT scans use 75% less radiation, require no needles, and have been shown to significantly lower lung cancer mortality in high-risk patients.
It’s not recommended for everyone, but you might be a candidate if you are 50 to 80 years old, if you smoke or who have quit within the past 15 years, or if you smoke heavily (or used to smoke heavily). Talk to your doctor about whether LDCT screening is right for you.
Immunotherapy for Lung Cancer Treatment
Immunotherapy medications leverage your immune system to fight lung cancer. Immunotherapy works by either boosting your immune system function or changing the way it works to target cancer cells.
Cancer cells can hide from your immune system, but proven immunotherapy drugs like Keytruda and Opdivo activate your immune system to identify hidden cancer cells. In recent years, these drugs have received approval to treat several types of lung cancer.
Targeted Therapies Protect Healthy Cells
Also called precision medicine, targeted therapies are medications designed to specifically attack cancer cells while bypassing healthy, normal cells. They may be used alone or in conjunction with traditional chemotherapy. Because they spare healthy cells, targeted therapies may produce fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy treatment.
Targeted therapies work by zeroing in on certain biomarkers (mutations, additions, deletions, or rearrangements in DNA) present in tumors. If tests reveal that your lung cancer contains biomarkers suited to targeted therapy, your doctor may recommend it.
Clinical trials for Improved Outcomes
Cancer research is constantly evolving. Clinical trials for lung cancer can provide patients with the opportunity for a better outcome and improved quality of life while helping to pave the way for tomorrow’s standard treatment protocols. Through our involvement in US Oncology Research, Arizona Oncology participates in clinical trials, bringing these leading-edge treatment options to patients right in their community, where they are close to family and friends.
Arizona Oncology’s Approach to Lung Cancer Treatment
When it comes to receiving a lung cancer diagnosis, it can take your breath away. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t. The expert surgeons and caring nurses at Arizona Oncology can outline a path forward to help you breathe a little easier along this journey. For more information about our compassionate, team-oriented approach, visit https://arizonaoncology.com/lung-cancer-oncology-treatment/.
