Find Recommended Doctors
Choosing Your Medical Team
Selecting the right medical team is crucial for effective treatment. Learn about the roles of oncologists, radiologists, surgeons, and other specialists, and get tips on how to choose the best team for your needs.
Being diagnosed with cancer can be a life-changing event. You’ll find information on what to expect after receiving a diagnosis, including initial tests, consultations with specialists, and understanding your specific type of cancer as well as looking up reviews on doctors.
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Florida cancer specialist - https://flcancer.com
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Moffitt - https://moffitt.org
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Mayo clinic - https://mayoclinic.org
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USF - https://health.usf.edu
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Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer center - https://mskcc.org
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Cleveland clinic - https://my.clevelandclinic.org
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MD Anderson Cancer center - https://mdanderson.org
These are a few of the bigger and some of the best when it comes to fighting cancer.
Here, you can explore reviews of recommended doctors to help put your mind at ease, knowing they are highly rated and trusted. I’ll continue updating this section with new doctors as I find them, so please check back regularly for the latest additions.
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Healthgrades - https://healthgrades.com
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Vitals - https://vitals.com
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The Federation of State Medical Boards will allow you to check the doctor’s credentials - https://docinfo.org
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MedlinePlus is another reliable medical information online - https://medlineplus.gov
Clinical trials – research studies that test new treatments.
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National cancer institute - https://cancer.gov
The following are terms and definitions you will hear during your appointments with the medical staff.
Treatment Options
Explore various cancer treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and experimental treatments.
Infusion Centers
Infusion centers are specialized facilities where patients receive intravenous treatments such as chemotherapy. Find out what to expect during your visits, the types of treatments administered, and tips for making your experience as comfortable as possible. There will be an education nurse that will be able to answer questions before you start your treatments.
Medical Terminology
Medical jargon can be confusing. Our glossary of common cancer-related terms will help you decode your diagnosis and treatment plans, empowering you to make informed decisions about your care. Medical terminology can be quite complex, especially when dealing with cancer. Here's a brief overview of some common cancer-related medical terms to help you understand your diagnosis and treatment options:
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Oncologist: A doctor who specializes in treating cancer. They are responsible for diagnosing cancer, staging the disease, and developing a treatment plan.
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Radiologist: A medical professional who uses imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to diagnose and sometimes treat diseases, including cancer.
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Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be administered intravenously, orally, or through other methods.
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Immunotherapy: A treatment that uses the body's immune system to fight cancer. This can include drugs that help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
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Infusion Centers: Specialized facilities where patients receive intravenous treatments such as chemotherapy. These centers are designed to make the treatment process as comfortable as possible.
Port:
A port is a small medical device that is surgically inserted under the skin, usually in the chest area. During chemotherapy, it is used to administer medication directly into the bloodstream, reducing the need for repeated needle sticks. The port provides easier access for delivering treatments and drawing blood, making the process more efficient and comfortable for patients.
Surgeon: A medical professional who performs operations to remove tumors, repair damaged tissues, and perform biopsies. Surgeons play a crucial role in cancer treatment, often working alongside oncologists and radiologists to provide comprehensive care.
Consulting with your healthcare team about any questions or concerns regarding your care is important. Connecting with other patients and reading reviews of medical professionals can provide additional insights and aid in making informed treatment choices. Always consult your doctor before trying new approaches. This guide is designed to support you during this period and is not intended to substitute the advice of your medical team or provide medical recommendations.
Types of Cancer and Definitions:
Carcinoma
Carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts in the epithelial cells, which are the cells that cover the inside and outside surfaces of the body. It is the most common type of cancer and includes cancers such as breast, lung, and prostate cancer.
Sarcoma
Sarcoma originates in the connective tissues such as bones, muscles, fat, and cartilage. It is relatively rare compared to carcinoma and includes types like osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and liposarcoma (fat tissue cancer).
Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. It leads to the production of abnormal white blood cells that overcrowd normal cells.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is a part of the body's immune system. The two main types are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Melanoma
Melanoma is a cancer that arises from the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing pigment in the skin. It is the most serious type of skin cancer.
Multiple Myeloma
Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in the plasma cells, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections by making antibodies. These cancerous cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells, leading to bone damage and impaired immune function.
Glioma
Glioma is a type of tumor that occurs in the brain and spinal cord. It starts in the glial cells, which support and protect nerve cells. Types of glioma include astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and glioblastoma, with glioblastoma being the most aggressive form.
Neuroblastoma
Neuroblastoma is a cancer that arises from immature nerve cells found in several areas of the body, most commonly around the adrenal glands. It primarily affects children and can also develop in the chest, abdomen, or spine.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. It begins in the basal cells, which are found in the lower part of the epidermis. This cancer typically appears as a slightly transparent bump on the skin and may develop in areas exposed to the sun.
Thyroid Cancer
Thyroid cancer originates in the thyroid gland, which is located at the base of the neck and produces hormones that regulate metabolism. There are several types of thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic thyroid cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer starts in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ in the abdomen that lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It plays an essential role in digestion and hormone production. Pancreatic cancer is known for being aggressive and difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. It typically involves the production of abnormal white blood cells, which can interfere with the body's ability to fight infections. There are several types of leukemia, including acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), and chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).
Melanoma
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanoma can form in any area of the skin and is known for its ability to spread to other parts of the body. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body's immune system. It involves the lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The two main types of lymphoma are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, each with different characteristics and treatment approaches.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer originates in the cells of the liver, an organ that plays a vital role in digestion and detoxification. The most common type of liver cancer is hepatocellular carcinoma, which starts in the main type of liver cell. Risk factors for liver cancer include chronic hepatitis infections and cirrhosis.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers, affecting both women and men, although it is far more prevalent in women. It begins in the cells of the breast, most often in the ducts or lobules. Early detection through screening can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum, parts of the digestive system. It often begins as small, non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps that can develop into cancer over time. Regular screenings are essential for early detection and prevention.
Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer arises in the ovaries, the reproductive glands found only in women. It is often difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms are usually vague and can be mistaken for other common conditions. Detection and treatment in the later stages can be more challenging.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate, a small gland in men that produces seminal fluid. It is one of the most common types of cancer in men and typically grows slowly. Early detection through screening is crucial for effective treatment.
Bladder Cancer
Bladder cancer starts in the cells of the bladder, the organ responsible for storing urine. It is often detected early, making it generally treatable. Symptoms include blood in the urine and changes in bladder habits.
Esophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer begins in the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, and chronic acid reflux. Early detection can improve treatment outcomes.
Kidney Cancer
Kidney cancer, also known as renal cancer, starts in the kidneys, the organs that filter waste from the blood and produce urine. The most common type is renal cell carcinoma. Early detection and treatment are important for improving survival rates.
Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer originates in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is the most common type of uterine cancer and is often detected early due to abnormal vaginal bleeding. Early diagnosis generally leads to effective treatment.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer starts in the mouth or throat. It can affect the lips, tongue, cheeks, roof of the mouth, and throat. Tobacco use, heavy alcohol consumption, and HPV infection are significant risk factors. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer occurs in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It is often caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Regular screening and vaccination against HPV can prevent most cases of cervical cancer.
Different diets you may experience during your treatments -
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NPO: just means nothing by mouth. This is usually done before surgeries or scans.
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Liquid diet: A liquid diet is a dietary regimen that primarily includes liquid foods and beverages to ensure adequate nutrient intake. Examples include smoothies, soups, and meal replacement shakes.
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Soft diet: Easily digestible soft foods. Examples include mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, yogurt, pudding, applesauce, and well-cooked pasta.
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Clear liquid diet: only clear liquids that can be easily digested. Such as – water, broth, juices, sports drink, gelatin, plain tea, coffee and popsicles.
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Regular diet: this is anything you would like to eat. No restrictions