Navigating cancer is so much more than managing medical appointments and treatment plans; it’s about understanding a complex and ever-evolving disease that can overwhelm even the most resourceful patients and families. This is where the Cancer Help Desk team steps in to give you critical guidance through the maze of biomarker testing, precision oncology, novel […]

In the fight against cancer, targeted therapies offer more precise treatment options that target specific molecules within cancer cells. These therapies, designed to interfere with the growth and survival of cancer cells, have led to significant advancements in cancer care. However, a major challenge remains as tumor cells often develop resistance to these therapies, rendering […]

Approximately 65 million Americans are caregivers for a family member or loved one, a role that can significantly impact their physical, emotional, and financial well-being. The majority of caregivers (about 61%) are women, encompassing spouses, partners, siblings, children, and neighbors. Interestingly, about one-third of cancer patients receive care from a man, highlighting the diverse faces […]

Chemotherapy can take a toll on more than just your body; it can wreak havoc on your oral health too. Imagine dealing with painful cavities and tooth decay on top of battling cancer. This is a harsh reality for many cancer patients. Understanding and addressing the dental challenges you might face during treatment can make […]

Cancer survivorship focuses on the overall well-being of a person from diagnosis to end of life. This includes physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial effects, follow-up care, late treatment effects, cancer recurrence, second cancers, and quality of life. Family, friends, and caregivers are also part of the survivorship experience. June is a month dedicated to […]

Are you considering participating in a clinical trial for cancer but are unsure if it’s the right choice for you? Take this quick quiz to discover why joining a clinical trial could benefit you! Question 1: Are you interested in accessing the latest treatments before they become widely available?  Answer: Yes, I am! Reason 1: […]

Hey there! Did you know that May is National Brain Tumor Awareness Month? It's a month dedicated to raising awareness about brain tumors, including primary central nervous system (CNS) tumors, which can be challenging to diagnose and treat due to their rarity. Around 25,000 people are diagnosed with primary CNS cancer every year in the […]

Head and neck cancer encompasses a group of cancers that begin in the mouth, nose, throat, larynx, sinuses, or salivary glands. Over 650,000 cases are diagnosed annually, highlighting the critical need for awareness and education. Risk factors for these cancers include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and HPV (human papillomavirus) infection. Early detection and prevention […]

No one wants to experience breast cancer, but knowing the best treatment path can make a significant difference when faced with this challenge. The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) recently updated guidelines to help doctors and patients choose the most effective treatments based on the specific characteristics of the cancer. Let's break down these […]

Vaccines are incredibly powerful tools for preventing certain types of cancer. While vaccines are widely used to protect against infectious diseases, they are increasingly becoming recognized for their effectiveness in cancer prevention. Viruses can cause cancer, but vaccines can help prevent it. For example, the HPV vaccine can protect against several types of cancer, including […]

Without a doubt, new treatments are needed for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), particularly for patients with unmethylated tumors. Four clinical trials are exploring innovative therapies that hope to redefine the standard of care. These trials are not just about scientific discovery; they are about people — offering some hope for improved outcomes. Ready to understand your […]

If you're undergoing cancer therapy, you might be all too familiar with the overwhelming sense of fatigue it can bring. This isn't just ordinary tiredness; it's a deep exhaustion that doesn't always go away with rest. But there's good news: research and experience have paved the way for strategies to help you cope. First off, […]

The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) is an annual event that brings together experts from around the world to share the latest research in breast cancer.

Could Tumor Treatment Fields be the next big breakthrough in treating pancreatic cancer? Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) are a type of cancer treatment that uses electric fields to disrupt the division of cancer cells. This interference can slow down or stop cancer cells from multiplying, which helps control tumor growth.

It's a common misconception that precision medicine is synonymous with personalized medicine. While precision medicine is a vital component of personalized medical care, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Precision medicine focuses on the 'what' of cancer treatment - targeting the cancer based on its genetic makeup. On the other hand, personalized care focuses […]

Clinical trials are sometimes referred to as tomorrow's medicine today. Uncovering personalized treatment choices and resources for each cancer patient is at the core of what we do at Cancer Help Desk. Founder and CEO Rebecca Driscoll talks about how we consider the whole person when identifying clinical trial opportunities for cancer patients. Listen in […]

Imagine being on a rollercoaster with unexpected physical and emotional highs and lows. That's often the journey for people being treated with steroids, especially dexamethasone. Steroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and swelling, especially in the brain. For patients with high-grade glioma, it can be a crucial part of treatment, helping to alleviate symptoms […]

Dr. Lars Wagner speaks with Cancer Help Desk. Learn more about the VAL413 study and the option of a better tasting, oral version, of Irinotecan called Orotecan.

Biomarker testing is a game-changer in cancer care. By analyzing the genetic makeup of a tumor, doctors can identify specific biomarkers that can help diagnose and treat cancer more effectively. This type of testing is crucial because it enables doctors to personalize treatment plans for each patient, leading to better outcomes and lower healthcare costs. […]

Cancer treatment demands emotional resilience, physical strength, and importantly, specific nutritional requirements. Our bodies rely on calories and protein as fuel sources. These are vital for maintaining healthy organs, repairing muscles, and supporting daily activities. During cancer treatments—whether it's chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-surgery—these nutritional needs significantly increase. Loss of appetite is a common side […]