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Blogs

Community Lung Cancer Hope

Lung Cancer Survivorship Celebration Emphasizes Living with Hope and Optimism

Paul Herzegh’s lung cancer story began six years ago on a beautiful April morning, roadtripping back home to Boulder from visiting friends in Virginia. He was 68, in otherwise good health, and felt some small kinks in his chest.

Hardly any time later, he had a diagnosis: stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originated in the cells lining the outside of his lungs. At that point, he didn’t know much beyond “the conventional wisdom that 'lung cancer is a killer,’” he explained Saturday evening, emphasizing the air quotes because, well, the conventional wisdom was wrong.

Research    Community

NCI National Cancer Plan: Developing Effective Treatments   

Hatim Sabaawy, MD, PhD, MS, associate director of translational research at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, is excited about the future of treatment for pancreatic cancer. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date June 09, 2023
Full Story

Community    Prostate Cancer    Bladder Cancer    Kidney Cancer    Testicular cancer

CU Cancer Center Member Helps Develop Genitourinary Cancer Guidelines in Sub-Saharan Africa 

 It’s one thing to develop cancer treatment guidelines in the U.S., where even the smallest health centers have access to the same basic technology for treatment and testing. But what about creating guidelines for oncologists in Sub-Saharan Africa, where access to medical resources can be limited and the disease can present differently?  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date June 07, 2023
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Research    Community    Cancer    Magazine    Mental Health   

Understanding Cancer in the Mind and the Heart

Cancer, the author Susan Sontag wrote, is “the disease that doesn’t knock before it enters.”

It’s the scary C-word that a large and continually growing body of research demonstrates has effects far beyond its physical symptoms. A cancer diagnosis, especially one made in the later stages of the disease, often impacts a person’s mental and emotional health in ways that can be unexpected and broad-reaching.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date June 05, 2023
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Breast Cancer    Colorectal Cancer    cancer screening

NCI National Cancer Plan: Detect Cancers Early

Early detection of cancer plays a vital role in improving cancer survival rates. Detecting cancer early allows for timely intervention, stopping the cancer before it metastasizes, and increasing the effectiveness of treatment options.

At the University of Colorado Cancer Center, many members are focused on detecting cancer early by providing greater access to screening and educating the community on options.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date June 02, 2023
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Research    Community    Philanthropy    Magazine   

Endowed Chairs Fund Vital Research at the University of Colorado Cancer Center 

Philanthropy is critical to the mission of the University of Colorado Cancer Center. Donors who are able to make gifts of any amount help CU Cancer Center members contribute to breakthrough research and improved patient outcomes. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 31, 2023
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Community

NCI National Cancer Plan: Preventing Cancer 

Over the past several decades, doctors and researchers have gotten much better at detecting and treating cancer. A cancer diagnosis, however, is still often costly to treat, not to mention the physical and emotional toll that treatment can take. 

The best way to avoid a diagnosis altogether? Stop cancer before it starts.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 26, 2023
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Patient Care    Colorectal Cancer    GITES

Outpatient Colectomy? It’s Possible at the CU Cancer Center

Sean Ryan did everything right. 

Ryan’s father died of colorectal cancer when he was just 45, so Ryan knew he was at high risk for the disease. When he turned 50, he made plans to get a screening colonoscopy. (In 2021, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force lowered the recommended screening age for colorectal cancer from 50 to 45 for men and women at average risk for colorectal cancer.) 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 24, 2023
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Research    Pediatric Cancer    Brain and Spinal Cancer

Finding New Ways to Treat Diffuse Midline Gliomas 

Cancer is a sneaky disease. Find one method of treating it successfully, and it finds another way to survive. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 22, 2023
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Breast Cancer    Public Health    cancer screening

Why Does the United States Preventive Services Task Force Want to Lower the Recommended Age for Mammograms? 

Driven in part by an increase in breast cancer diagnoses in younger women — particularly in Black women — the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) — has proposed lowering the recommended age for beginning regular mammograms from 50 to 40. The USPSTF recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer get screening mammograms every other year. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 18, 2023
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Community    Public Health

CU Cancer Center Leader Appointed to Third Term on Colorado’s Board of Health 

Evelinn Borrayo, PhD, has made it her mission to eliminate cancer disparities in Colorado.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 17, 2023
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Patient Care    Community    Kidney Cancer    Urology

Kidney Cancer Journey Emphasizes Importance of Asking a Doctor when Things Don’t Feel Right

 

To start with, there was his usual schedule of national travel for his job as a Wall Street journeyman – he was always flying somewhere. Add to that moving to Castle Rock from San Francisco, plus a love for concerts and baseball games and whatever else life offers, and it’s no wonder that Lincoln Yersin was feeling run down.

But this run down? This exhausted? He went to see his primary care provider in San Francisco a few times, had a few tests, and the diagnosis was stress.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date May 16, 2023
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Education    Community    Students    Cancer    Graduation

Cancer Diagnosis During Medical School Offered Unique Insight into Patient Experience

Steve Haberkorn knows he’s not the first person to pursue a career in medicine out of a desire to help people. That’s why he did it, though – to help where he can and work to improve people’s lives.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date May 15, 2023
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Research    Pancreatic Cancer    Surgical Oncology    Transplant Surgery

Data Analysis Offers Promising News for Transplant Patients with Previous Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms Diagnosis

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are cystic lesions that can form by the ducts of the pancreas. They generally are asymptomatic and discovered in the course of testing for other conditions.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date May 10, 2023
Full Story

Awareness    Bladder Cancer    Urology

Awareness and Early Detection Key to Good Bladder Cancer Outcomes

In its early stages, bladder cancer can be easy to ignore or write off as something it isn’t – a UTI, a bladder infection, or other conditions that are commonly treated with an antibiotic.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date May 09, 2023
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Pediatric Cancer    Brain and Spinal Cancer    Pediatrics

What to Know About Pediatric Brain Cancer 

May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month, which makes it a perfect time to turn the spotlight on pediatric brain cancer. Brain cancer is the second most common cancer in children, after leukemia, and brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children and adolescents, with more than 4,000 new diagnoses each year, according to the American Cancer Society. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 08, 2023
Full Story

Community    Lung Cancer    Hope

Lung Cancer Survivorship Celebration Emphasizes Living with Hope and Optimism

Paul Herzegh’s lung cancer story began six years ago on a beautiful April morning, roadtripping back home to Boulder from visiting friends in Virginia. He was 68, in otherwise good health, and felt some small kinks in his chest.

Hardly any time later, he had a diagnosis: stage 4 adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer that originated in the cells lining the outside of his lungs. At that point, he didn’t know much beyond “the conventional wisdom that 'lung cancer is a killer,’” he explained Saturday evening, emphasizing the air quotes because, well, the conventional wisdom was wrong.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date May 05, 2023
Full Story

Research    Esophageal Cancer    Advancement   

Esophageal and Gastric Center Naming Celebration Cements CU Cancer Center Legacy

About 40 people recently gathered at the Anschutz Health Sciences Building to celebrate the newly named Katy O. and Paul M. Rady Esophageal and Gastric Center of Excellence and honor Sachin Wani, MD, as the inaugural center director and recipient of the Katy O. and Paul M. Rady Esophageal and Gastric Center Chair.


Author Guest Contributor | Publish Date May 02, 2023
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Research    Community    Colorectal Cancer

NCI National Cancer Plan: Eliminating Inequities  

Thanks to the Colorado Cancer Screening Program at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, more than 4,000 people from medically underserved populations received colorectal cancer screening over the past two years — individuals who likely would not have sought the screening out on their own.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date April 28, 2023
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Research    Community    Health equity

Lower-Income, Working Cancer Caregivers Experience Harder Financial Impacts

Cancer is a disease of ripples – from symptoms that precede a diagnosis to treatment, side effects, and goals for long-term survival. It can impact every facet of life, for the person who receives the diagnosis as well as the person who is their caregiver.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 27, 2023
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Research    Press Releases    Pancreatic Cancer    Clinical Trials

New Pancreatic Cancer Research Could Boost Survival Rates

A unique treatment combining radiation and immunotherapy can eradicate pancreatic tumors while stopping the cancer from spreading, according to a new study by researchers at the University of Colorado Cancer Center.


Author Julia Milzer | Publish Date April 27, 2023
Full Story

Research    Pediatric Cancer    Kidney Cancer    Urology

Research Shows that Lymph Node Sampling During Kidney Tumor Surgery Is Safe

A longstanding approach to surgeries for children with kidney tumors has been an abundance of caution.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 26, 2023
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Research    Blood Cancer    Immunotherapy    lymphoma

What is the Best Lymphoma Treatment After CAR T Therapy Fails? 

For 30% to 40% of lymphoma patients who receive CAR T therapy, the treatment is a godsend. Typically given to lymphoma patients for whom other treatments have proven ineffective, CAR T therapy involves removing immune cells from the body via a blood draw, reengineering them to become better cancer fighters, then reintroducing them to the bloodstream, where they seek out and destroy cancer cells. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date April 25, 2023
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Community    Head and Neck Cancer    Veteran and Military Health

PACT Act Allows Military Veterans to Access Benefits for Expanded List of Conditions Related to Exposures

When the PACT Act went into effect January 1, after being signed into law in August, many U.S. veterans were able to access benefits for an expanded list of health conditions presumed to be caused by exposure to toxic substances.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 14, 2023
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Research    Community    Cancer   

Where Advanced Cancer Patients Are Discharged After Hospitalization Affects Outcomes

Cancer patients younger than 65 who are discharged to a skilled nursing facility following hospitalization are less likely to receive cancer treatment and hospice care before death, new University of Colorado Cancer Center research shows.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 12, 2023
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Community   

What to Know About Traveling to the CU Cancer Center

Whether they are coming from across the state, across the region, or across the country, more than 1,000 people each year arrive at the University of Colorado Cancer Center for treatment, surgery, or a second opinion on their cancer diagnosis.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date April 10, 2023
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Research    Pediatric Cancer    Sarcoma    Radiation

Study Shows that Equivocal Scan Results Don’t Predict Higher Risk of Pediatric Cancer Relapse

For many pediatric cancer patients and their families, “scanxiety” is a very real and very scary feeling – the worry that can precede scans before treatment, and the uncertainty stemming from scans after treatment is completed.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 05, 2023
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Community    Awareness    Urology    Testicular cancer

Early Detection an Important Factor in Highly Treatable Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a highly treatable cancer that isn’t always easy to talk about.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date April 04, 2023
Full Story

Patient Care    Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer Patient Traveled From Indiana to Colorado to Receive Care at CU Cancer Center 

Nathan Hammond knew things were getting bad when his doctors had to put the feeding tube in. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date April 03, 2023
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer    Radiation   

Research Shows Targeted Therapy Allows Certain Lung Cancer Patients to Avoid Whole-Brain Radiation

Whole-brain radiation therapy used to treat brain metastases is a significant cancer treatment that, while generally well-tolerated, can have serious long-term side effects, including dementia. Neither clinicians nor patients undertake it lightly.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 29, 2023
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Research    Community    Cancer

Growing Health and Wellness in the Community Garden

There’s a growing body of research supporting the satisfactions of gardening, from its positive impact as a mental health intervention to its association with improvement in cognitive function and reduction in stress, anger, and fatigue.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 28, 2023
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Research    Surgical Oncology    Awards

CU Cancer Center Member Named to National Cancer Institute Early-Stage Surgeon Scientist Program 

For her innovative research on how cannabinoids affect the tumor immune microenvironment in melanomaUniversity of Colorado Cancer Center member Camille Stewart, MD, has been named to the 2023 cohort of the National Cancer Institute’s Early-Stage Surgeon Scientist Program (ESSP). The National Cancer Institute coordinates the United States National Cancer Program and is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 24, 2023
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Patient Care    Pancreatic Cancer    Surgical Oncology    Multidisciplinary Clinic   

Enjoying the Gift of Time After a Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis

Before receiving a pancreatic cancer diagnosis eight years ago – a diagnosis that resulted from persistent self-advocacy – Carolyn Degrafinried spent one awful weekend wondering if she was losing her mind.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 23, 2023
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Research    Blood Cancer    Clinical Trials    lymphoma   

Clinical Trials Show Promise for ‘Jurassic Park’ Actor Sam Neill’s Rare Lymphoma

In a forthcoming memoir, actor Sam Neill of “Jurassic Park” fame reveals that he’s been battling angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, also known as AITL.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date March 22, 2023
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Research    Head and Neck Cancer

Studying the Oral Cancer Immune Landscape in Dogs 

Squamous cell head and neck cancers — cancers that develop in the outer layers of tissue in the oral cavity, throat, larynx, and sinonasal cavity — are the sixth most prevalent cancer worldwide. The five-year survival rate for this type of cancer is 40% to 50%, with a worse prognosis for patients with advanced disease. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 21, 2023
Full Story

Cancer    Clinical Trials    cancer screening   

Can One Blood Test Transform Cancer Screening?

Because early detection offers the best chance of surviving cancer, screening tests that involve one quick blood draw are generating excitement. If approved, rather than scheduling downtime and facing intimidating procedures, patients could undergo screening for multiple cancers at once, just by rolling up their sleeves during routine doctor exams.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date March 20, 2023
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Research    Pediatric Cancer    Bone Cancer    Data analysis

Socioeconomic Status and Ethnicity Shown to Impact Pediatric Bone Cancer Outcomes

Pediatric osteosarcoma patients who are Hispanic or live in areas of high language isolation are more likely to have metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, recently publish research shows.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 17, 2023
Full Story

Community    Colorectal Cancer   

Two CU Cancer Center Members Attend Biden’s Moonshot Event on Colorectal Cancer 

Earlier this month, medical professionals, patient advocates, industry innovators, federal policymakers, and public health officials, including two members of the University of Colorado Cancer Center, gathered at the White House for the Cancer Moonshot Colorectal Cancer Forum.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 16, 2023
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Community    Breast Cancer    Surgical Oncology

FDA Issues New Mammography Guidelines for Women With Dense Breasts 

For women with dense breasts, getting a mammogram to screen for breast cancer can be something of a double whammy. Not only is cancer more difficult to detect in dense breasts, but dense breasts also are a risk factor for developing breast cancer in the first place. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 15, 2023
Full Story

Education    Pancreatic Cancer    Surgical Oncology

Dutch Surgeons Visit University of Colorado to Learn Pancreatic Cancer Procedure

When surgeons from the Netherlands needed help establishing a national program for patients with hard-to-treat pancreatic cancer, they knew just whom to turn to: Marco Del Chiaro, MD, PhD, professor and division chief of surgical oncology in the University of Colorado Department of Surgery.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 09, 2023
Full Story

Community    Colorectal Cancer

Colonoscopy vs. Stool-Based Tests: What is the Best Way to Detect Colorectal Cancer? 

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and with the recent news that the disease is on the rise among people under 55, it’s more important than ever for people to understand the screening options for colorectal cancer.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 08, 2023
Full Story

Research    Awards

Sojourns Scholar Award Will Support Hospice Research in Communities of Color

Channing E. Tate, PhD, MPH, University of Colorado Cancer Center Rising Star, has seen through her personal and professional experiences how aging populations and communities of color often fall through the cracks of health care, especially at the end of life.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 07, 2023
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Research    Philanthropy    Esophageal Cancer

Gift From Patient’s Family Funds Exploration of New Treatment for Esophageal Cancer 

Funding from the Paul R. O’Hara Seed Grant Fund at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus will allow CU Cancer Center member Akshay Chauhan, MD, to explore new methods of detecting and treating esophageal cancer


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date March 06, 2023
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Research    Head and Neck Cancer    Clinical Trials

Innovative Technology Shows Great Promise Against Certain Head and Neck Cancers

Over the past decade, human papillomavirus (HPV) has increasingly been identified as a significant cause of certain head and neck cancers – for example, evidence suggests it causes 70% of oropharyngeal cancers in the United States.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date March 03, 2023
Full Story

Research    Blood Cancer   

Eric Kohler, MD, PhD, Receives Award to Improve CAR T-Cell Therapy 

Already regarded as one of the country’s leaders in CAR T-cell therapy, University of Colorado Cancer Center member M. Eric Kohler, MD, PhD, has received a $150,000 Scholar Award from the American Society of Hematology (ASH) to investigate a method to make CAR T cells function even better. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date February 24, 2023
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Research    Bone Cancer

V Foundation Funds CU Cancer Center Research on Pediatric Osteosarcoma That Spreads to the Lungs 

University of Colorado Cancer Center members Michael Leibowitz, MD, PhD, and Dan Regan, DVM, PhD, have received an $800,000 grant from the V Foundation for Cancer Research, co-founded by ESPN and legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano, to study a new potential treatment for pediatric osteosarcoma that spreads to the lungs. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date February 23, 2023
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Research   

Junior Faculty at CU Cancer Center Selected for 2023 American Cancer Society Grants 

Four early career researchers from the University of Colorado Cancer Center have received Institutional Research Grants (IRGs) from the American Cancer Society (ACS) for 2023 through the parent grant awarded to the CU Cancer Center. IRGs are intended to support junior faculty members to obtain preliminary results that will enable them to compete successfully for federal research grants.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date February 17, 2023
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Research    Cancer    Surgical Oncology

Most People Diagnosed with Cancer Seek Information Even Before Their Appointments

For many people who receive a cancer diagnosis, one of the first things they want is information – about the cancer itself, about treatment options, about side effects they may experience, about what it all means.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date February 13, 2023
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Research    Cancer    Genetics

Research Illuminates a Therapeutic Strategy to Induce Cancer Cell Death

Cancer is a disease driven by gene mutations. These mutated genes in cancer fall into two major categories: tumor suppressors and oncogenes. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes can allow tumors to grow unchecked – a case of no brakes – while mutations in oncogenes can activate cell proliferation, pushing the gas pedal all the way to the floor.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date February 10, 2023
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Community    Equity Diversity and Inclusion

CU Cancer Center Part of Global Effort to Close the Care Gap

About one in five people worldwide will develop cancer in their lifetimes and in 2020, the most recent year for which data are available, cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths worldwide.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date February 04, 2023
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer   

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Funds Efforts to Increase Lung Cancer Screening 

A project co-created by University of Colorado Cancer Center leader Jamie Studts, PhD, to boost lung cancer screening rates in Kentucky has proven so successful that Studts has received a grant from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation (BMSF) to create an enhanced version of the program that will roll out in two more states in the coming years.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 23, 2023
Full Story

Press Releases   

Voting for U.S. News & World Report Hospitals Ranking

The University of Colorado School of Medicine is proud of our faculty's work that contributes to UCHealth's annual rankings on the U.S. News & World Report's Best Hospitals. These rankings are important as many students, residents, faculty, and patients consider these rankings when deciding where to train, practice and receive care.


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date January 19, 2023
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Pediatric Cancer    Brain and Spinal Cancer    Cancer    Pediatrics

New Drug Combination Might Better Treat Often Fatal Childhood Brain Tumor

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered a drug combination that might offer a better prognosis for children diagnosed with MYC amplified Medulloblastoma, an often deadly form of brain cancer. The research was conducted in collaboration with the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) University Hospital Dusseldorf.


Author Laura Kelley | Publish Date January 19, 2023
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Innovation    Patient Care    Pancreatic Cancer   

World Traveler Books CU Anschutz for Pancreatic Cancer Journey

Bonnie Dahl knows chance and circumstance played key roles in halting her pancreatic cancer, one of the most deadly and insidious forms of the disease.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date January 17, 2023
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Research    Community   

CU Cancer Center Member Leads Conference on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancers 

In addition to the research and clinical work she performs as a member of the University of Colorado Cancer CenterSwati Patel, MD, also just completed a one-year term as president of the Collaborative Group of the Americas on Inherited Gastrointestinal Cancer (CGA-IGC), an international professional medical organization dedicated to taking care of patients who may be at increased risk of GI cancer based on family history and genetics.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 17, 2023
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Research    Faculty    Lung Cancer   

Balancing Science and Medicine to Benefit Lung Cancer Patient Care

When his mom fell off a ladder on New Year’s Eve a number of years ago, after deciding that was as good a night as any to clean the leaves from her gutters, one of the first things Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, did after she got home from the hospital was take her pulse.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date January 12, 2023
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Research    Community    Immunotherapy   

What is Immunotherapy? 

When it comes to treating cancer, doctors have many tools in their arsenal. For decades, cancer was treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation — broad tools that affect healthy cells along with the cancer cells they are meant to eradicate. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 11, 2023
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Press Releases    Cancer   

Study Finds New Feature Indicative of Gastrointestinal Tumor Recurrence

Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have identified a new feature indicative of the chance of recurrence of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs).


Author Kelsea Pieters | Publish Date January 09, 2023
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Research    Prostate Cancer    Cancer   

Using Big Data to Help Understand when a Treatment is Right for Prostate Cancer Patients

As growing numbers of people diagnosed with cancer receive testing to have their cancer genetically sequenced, researchers and clinicians are learning volumes more about specific mutations and genetic alterations that can occur in each type of cancer.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date January 09, 2023
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Research    Blood Cancer    Funding   

New Grant Funding Supports Researcher in Understanding Early Factors in Blood Cancer

A necessary part of the scientific process is sometimes being wrong, and Eric Pietras, PhD, was wrong. He’s the first to admit it.

When Pietras, a University of Colorado Cancer Center member and associate professor of hematology, joined the CU School of Medicine in 2015, a significant body of research suggested that inflammation activated blood-forming stem cells, which normally are dormant in bone marrow.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date January 06, 2023
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Community    Head and Neck Cancer   

Here’s What to Know About Martina Navratilova’s Double Cancer Diagnosis

On January 2, tennis great Martina Navratilova revealed that she has been diagnosed with two unrelated cancers: stage 1 throat cancer and early-stage breast cancer


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 04, 2023
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Community    Lung Cancer   

What Are Pack-Years?

For many people, receiving a cancer diagnosis may require learning a new vocabulary ­– terms that can be useful guideposts for defining the disease and its treatment.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date January 03, 2023
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Kidney Cancer    Urology

Ronnie Hillman’s Death Highlights Rare Cancer that Disproportionately Affects Young Black Men

Former Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman, 31, died Wednesday of a rare type of kidney cancer that disproportionately impacts young people who are Black with sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date December 22, 2022
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Research    Cancer

CU Cancer Center Top Stories of 2022

2022 was an impressive year for the University of Colorado Cancer Center, and we were able to share more than 125 stories highlighting our research, patient care, education, and community partnerships.


Author Cancer Center | Publish Date December 19, 2022
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Research    Patient Care    Head and Neck Cancer    Clinical Trials    Immunotherapy

Clinical Trial Participation Helps Woman Diagnosed with Laryngeal Cancer Enjoy Every Day Without the Disease

Jane Hart is a lot of things: extremely proud mom of Shelby, daughter extraordinaire and apple of Jane’s eye. Dog mom to (deservedly spoiled) Maizy, Taco, Winnie, and Walter. Collector of Talavera pottery. Unabashed “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City” fan. A surprising 71, because she looks at least 10 years younger.

Cancer survivor – stage 4 laryngeal cancer that necessitated a tracheostomy and laryngectomy, that forced her to relearn how to breathe and talk.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date December 16, 2022
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Research    Melanoma

Drug Combination for Stage 4 Melanoma Shows Success in CU Cancer Center Trial

A new multidrug treatment for patients with stage 4 melanoma has proven effective after a three-year clinical trial at the University of Colorado Cancer Center.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date December 15, 2022
Full Story

Community    Support    Colorectal Cancer

Community Partnerships Support New Endoscopy Suite at Longmont Salud Family Health

A newly opened endoscopy suite at Salud Family Health in Longmont highlights the importance of longstanding partnerships between the University of Colorado Cancer Center and community stakeholders in supporting underserved populations who otherwise might not receive vital cancer screening services.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date December 14, 2022
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Research    Press Releases    Pancreatic Cancer   

Largest Study of its Kind Reveals Adjuvant Chemotherapy Improves Overall Survival for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

Today, the University of Colorado Cancer Center released new research that showcases chemotherapy treatment before and after surgery for pancreatic cancer as the most effective combination for patients.


Author Julia Milzer | Publish Date December 08, 2022
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Colorectal Cancer    cancer screening

What Kirstie Alley’s Death Tells Us About Colorectal Cancer Screening 

Actress Kirstie Alley, best known for her role as Rebecca Howe on the 1980s sitcom “Cheers,” died Monday at age 71. According to a representative for the actress quoted in People magazine, Alley died from colon cancer after a short battle with the disease.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date December 06, 2022
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Research    Patient Care    Esophageal Cancer    cancer screening

Compassionate Care Fuels Family’s Desire to Change Esophageal Cancer Paradigm

Paul O’Hara grew up in a large Midwestern family where loyalty and toughness run deep. About nine years ago, Paulie, as he was called by his siblings, leaned into his family’s caring and stout nature when he was diagnosed with advanced esophageal cancer, which has a five-year survival rate of under 20%.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date December 06, 2022
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Press Releases    Advancement   

CU Cancer Center Receives $20 Million Gift to Advance Esophageal Cancer Research and Care

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus today announced the creation of the Katy O. and Paul M. Rady Esophageal and Gastric Center of Excellence, made possible by a $20 million philanthropic investment from Katy O. and Paul M. Rady.


Author Julia Milzer | Publish Date December 06, 2022
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Research    Lung Cancer    Women's Health   

New Research from the University of Colorado Cancer Center Explores Options for Motherhood in Lung Cancer Patients

New research from the University of Colorado (CU) Cancer Center highlights the need for additional data collection for women hoping to have successful pregnancies while undergoing treatment for lung cancer. Specifically, they focus on the diagnosis of advanced oncogene-driven non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that disproportionately affects women of reproductive age.


Author Laura Kelley | Publish Date December 02, 2022
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Community    Cancer    Magazine    Leadership

Women Are Gaining Increasing Seats at the Table in Cancer Leadership

Two important numbers to keep in mind are that 50.5% of the U.S. population is female, and that cancer will account for more than 606,000 deaths in the United States this year, making it the second-leading cause of death.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date November 28, 2022
Full Story

Press Releases    Head and Neck Cancer    Cancer   

CU Anschutz Researchers Find Less Invasive Treatment for Certain Head and Neck Cancers

A new study from researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus has identified a less invasive way to treat a subset of head and neck cancers that could potentially change the standard of care for patients.


Author Kelsea Pieters | Publish Date November 28, 2022
Full Story

Head and Neck Cancer    Cancer    Oncology    Immunotherapy

Selective Nodal Radiation May Be a More Effective Approach in Cancer Treatment

A promising new study released by the University of Colorado Cancer Center suggests that recurrence of certain cancers can be significantly decreased by irradiating only a select set of lymph nodes near a tumor rather than all of them.


Author Laura Kelley | Publish Date November 16, 2022
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Research    Community    Cancer

Focusing on Cancer, Work, and Employment

In the course of her research studying employment and cancer, Cathy J. Bradley, PhD, MPA, deputy director of the University of Colorado Cancer Center, has heard from people diagnosed with cancer who would skip a chemotherapy treatment rather than skip work and risk losing their job.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date November 16, 2022
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Research    Education    Community    Equity Diversity and Inclusion

PIKE-PREP Supports Scholars from Underrepresented Backgrounds in Pursuing Top-Tier Education

Xander Bradeen began his undergraduate studies at the University of Colorado Boulder planning to major in neuroscience as a pre-med student, the first in his family to pursue a college education. Then he learned about prairie voles.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date November 14, 2022
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Research    Leukemia

CU Cancer Center Research Finds the Pathway AML Cells Use to Avoid Therapeutic Elimination

New research conducted in the lab of University of Colorado Cancer Center co-deputy director James DeGregori, PhD, may explain why acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells that reside in the bone marrow are more resistant to medication than AML cells found in the blood and elsewhere in the body.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date November 11, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Awareness    Pancreatic Cancer    Surgical Oncology

Pancreatic Cancer Survivor is Eternally Grateful for her Surgery With Schulick

Laura Foote is now three years out from her pancreatic cancer diagnosis, thanks to a surgery performed by Richard Schulick, MD, MBA, director of the University of Colorado Cancer Center and chair of the Department of Surgery


Author Cancer Center | Publish Date November 08, 2022
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer    Funding   

Translational Research Scholar Grant Supports Further Study of Immune Cell Changes During Lung Cancer Treatment

University of Colorado Cancer Center member Erin Schenk, MD, PhD, has been named one of the CU School of Medicine 2022 Translational Research Scholars and received four-year grant support to facilitate exploration and new lines of research.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date November 07, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Community    Faculty    Bladder Cancer   

Sculpture Crafted in Honor of Cancer Doctor’s Impact on Patient’s Life

Gifts of significance don’t always have to be large monetary contributions. Sometimes, the most impactful gifts don’t involve money at all.


Author Kiley Carroll | Publish Date November 07, 2022
Full Story

Research    Community   

Michaela Montour Celebrated as Research Administrator of the Year 

Corralling four research programs, 12 shared resources, a 28-member leadership team, and a $23 million grant is a huge job — but it’s one that Michaela Montour has performed at the University of Colorado Center with ease for more than 20 years.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 31, 2022
Full Story

Breast Cancer    Women's Health    cancer screening

What to Expect from a Screening Mammogram

Mammograms are a vital tool for breast cancer screening. They can detect tumors even before a woman experiences signs or symptoms of cancer, and are sensitive enough to register changes to breast tissue as small as a grain of sand.

A significant body of research has shown that having regular mammograms can lower a woman’s risk of dying from breast cancer.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date October 28, 2022
Full Story

Thyroid Cancer    Awards

Bryan Haugen, MD, Receives Outstanding Scholarly Physician Award from the Endocrine Society

University of Colorado Cancer Center member Bryan Haugen, MD, always knew he was a science person. His question was if he wanted to be a MD or a PhD. After completing his bachelor’s degree at Saint Olaf College in Minnesota, he did a few years of research at the Mayo Clinic before starting medical school there.


Author Jessica Cordova | Publish Date October 27, 2022
Full Story

Community    Breast Cancer    Metastasis

What Happens When Breast Cancer Metastasizes to the Brain? 

Cancer becomes especially dangerous when it metastasizes — or spreads — to other parts of the body, including the brain. Breast cancer is more likely than many other cancers to spread to the brain, due in part to the large amounts of estrogen present in areas including the hippocampus, hypothalamus, and amygdala. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 26, 2022
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Breast Cancer    Plastic Surgery

Multi-Faceted Treatment Helps Young Breast Cancer Patient Through Her Cancer Journey

Amanda Vegter did not have time for whatever it was that she felt on the side of her left breast.

She was six weeks into her fourth year of veterinary school, she had backpacking trips to go on with her boyfriend, walks to go on with her two dogs, plus plans for a summer externship in South Africa. She was busy and happy and it was probably nothing.

But that firm spot she first felt on her breast in January 2021 while working out at her boyfriend’s house didn’t just go away. Now she can look back and shake her head – of course it was breast cancer.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date October 21, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Awareness    Breast Cancer    Surgical Oncology

Breast Cancer Survivor Emphasizes Self Exams and Self-Advocacy

Scarlet Doyle was 29 when she was diagnosed with angiosarcoma, a rare type of breast cancer. She had found a lump and had to advocate for herself to get her breast cancer diagnosis. After having her care transferred to the University of Colorado Cancer Center, she was seen by Breelyn Wilky, MD, associate professor of medical oncology and deputy associate director of clinical research at the CU Cancer Center, and Gretchen Ahrendt, MD, professor of surgical oncology. 


Author Cancer Center | Publish Date October 20, 2022
Full Story

Press Releases    Community

Jan Lowery Named Assistant Director for Dissemination and Implementation at CU Cancer Center 

Jan Lowery, PhD, MPH, who started her career as a researcher at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, returned September 1 as assistant director for dissemination and implementation for the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement at the CU Cancer Center. In her new role, Lowery will lead efforts to develop, conduct, and disseminate implementation-focused projects in cancer prevention, early detection, and survivorship.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 18, 2022
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer    Funding

CU ASPIRE Grant Supports Multi-Investigator Research Focusing on Lung Cancer Pre-Malignancy

A team of scientists and University of Colorado Cancer Center members are collaborating to understand pre-malignancy in lung cancer and decrease the risk of developing the disease, supported by a grant to promote such multi-investigator research.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date October 14, 2022
Full Story

Colorectal Cancer    Cancer    cancer screening

The Message Hasn’t Changed: Get Colorectal Cancer Screening

The best screening test for colorectal cancer is the screening that gets done, because it decreases a person’s chances of getting colorectal cancer and significantly reduces their risk of dying from colorectal cancer.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date October 13, 2022
Full Story

Diversity    Clinical Research    Inclusion   

McDermott Named Deputy AD for Diversity and Inclusion in Clinical Research at CU Cancer Center

As lead investigator or sub-investigator on numerous clinical trials at the University of Colorado Cancer Center — many of them investigating new treatments for head and neck cancerJessica McDermott, MD, has been instrumental in improving access to cancer clinical trials for patients from medically underserved communities.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 11, 2022
Full Story

Research

Colorado Researchers Gather in Aurora for Genome Regulation Symposium 

More than 85 researchers from five different institutions around Colorado, including the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Colorado State University, and CU Boulder, gathered in the newly opened Anschutz Health Sciences Building on the CU Anschutz Medical Campus on August 19 for the 2022 Genome Regulation Summer Symposium.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 07, 2022
Full Story

Breast Cancer

What Katie Couric’s Diagnosis Teaches Us About Breast Cancer 

Former “TODAY” show anchor Katie Couric revealed last week that she was diagnosed with breast cancer in summer 2022. Couric appeared on “TODAY” on October 3 to talk about her diagnosis, saying she was lucky her cancer was detected during a routine mammogram and urging other women to keep up with their mammograms. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 05, 2022
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer   

American Lung Association Award Funds CU Research on Epithelial Progenitor Cells 

University of Colorado Cancer Center members Moumita Ghosh, PhD, and Eric Clambey, PhD, have received a grant from the American Lung Association (ALA) to study how epithelial progenitor cells and immune cells may impact each other to shape the outcome of lung cancer


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date October 03, 2022
Full Story

Research    Colorectal Cancer    Cancer    Funding

R01 Grant Supports Deep Dive into Protein Associated with Cachexia in Late-Stage Colorectal Cancer

When a person has lived with colorectal cancer for a long time, and gotten to the point of not responding to therapies as much or at all, it’s common to develop cachexia. This debilitating condition is a multi-systemic wasting syndrome that can cause weight loss, a loss of muscle and bone mass, fatigue, and frailty.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 30, 2022
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer   

CU Anschutz Researchers Create New Method to More Accurately Measure Cancer Lesions’ Response to Treatment

Researchers from the University of Colorado Cancer Center on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have created a new way of measuring cancer lesions’ response to treatment that could better inform the development of new cancer drugs.


Author Kelsea Pieters | Publish Date September 29, 2022
Full Story

Research    Prostate Cancer    Cancer   

Ongoing Research Studying Effect of High-Dose Testosterone in Treating Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and, when caught and treated early, is considered curable. But when prostate cancer becomes metastatic, meaning it spreads to distant organs, it is no longer considered curable and novel treatment strategies are needed.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 28, 2022
Full Story

Prostate Cancer

Latest Prostate Cancer Imaging Technique Transforms Our Ability to Locate Cancer Cells Hidden with Standard Imaging

Prostate cancer is the second most common and deadly cancer in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 8 men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Treatment techniques range from aggressive therapies such as radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy to targeted therapies that treat only the affected cancer cells.


Author Noelle Musgrave | Publish Date September 26, 2022
Full Story

Cancer    Rehabilitation

Cancer Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation an Important Aspect of Patient-Centered Care

Every person who receives a cancer diagnosis experiences the symptoms of the disease and treatments differently. However, a common thread is that the disease can influence every aspect of life, even after a person reaches no evidence of disease (NED) status.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 23, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Ovarian Cancer    Immunotherapy    Genetics

Innovative Immunotherapy Treatment Helps Ovarian Cancer Patient See Amazing Results

People often tell Winona Williams that she’s brave, and she is. Ovarian cancer could easily become a dark cloud over her, shadowing every minute of every day.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 20, 2022
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Brain and Spinal Cancer

A Wearable Device to Treat Brain Tumors

Thanks in part to clinical trials overseen by researchers at the University of Colorado Cancer Center, a wearable, portable electrical device called Optune is proving successful at treating a type of brain tumor called a glioblastoma.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date September 19, 2022
Full Story

Community    Blood Cancer    Leukemia    Multiple Myeloma

The Latest on CAR T-Cell Therapy

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month, a time for bringing attention to leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, Hodgkin’s disease, and other blood cancers.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date September 16, 2022
Full Story

Research    Pediatric Cancer    Blood Cancer    Leukemia    Clinical Trials

St. Baldrick’s Funds CU Study of New Pediatric Leukemia Drug 

As part of its ongoing efforts to eradicate childhood cancers, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has awarded University of Colorado Cancer Center member Kelly Faulk, MD, a St. Baldrick’s Scholar grant to investigate a new method for treating infant leukemia


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date September 08, 2022
Full Story

Research    Colorectal Cancer    Clinical Trials    DOM Newsletter

CU Cancer Center Leading Clinical Trial of New Drug to Treat Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

A new phase 2 clinical trial led by University of Colorado Cancer Center member Robert Lentz, MD, may offer hope for patients with metastatic colon cancer for whom standard therapy is no longer effective. Lentz is mentored by Wells Messersmith, MD, associate director of clinical services at the CU Cancer Center.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date September 07, 2022
Full Story

Genetics   

New Co-Director of Hereditary Cancers Focused on Improving Access to Genetic Counseling and Testing

As genetic counseling and genetic testing continue gaining importance in the world of cancer, the new co-director of hereditary cancers in the University of Colorado Cancer Center is aiming to increase awareness of these important resources for patients.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 06, 2022
Full Story

Community    Prostate Cancer

Explaining PSA Numbers 

The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein produced by the prostate gland. The PSA test is a blood test used to measure the amount of this protein found in the blood. Results are reported (ng/mL), which means nanograms of PSA per milliliter of blood. High levels of PSA have been found in men with advanced prostate cancer


Author Noelle Musgrave | Publish Date September 02, 2022
Full Story

Research    Pediatric Cancer    Brain and Spinal Cancer

CU Cancer Center Is Home to One of the Largest Groups of Pediatric Brain Tumor Researchers in the Country

Initially, the big picture looks severe: Pediatric brain tumors are now the number one cause of death for children diagnosed with cancer.

Though leukemia is four times more common in pediatric patients than brain tumors, about 90% of children diagnosed with leukemia will experience a cure “because we’ve done such a good job of researching leukemia, and treatments have come so far that cure rates have improved significantly,” says Rajeev Vibhakar, MD, PhD, MPH, a professor of pediatric hematology and oncology in the University of Colorado School of Medicine. “We need to see that same level of support and advancement in finding cures for pediatric brain tumors.”


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date September 01, 2022
Full Story

Research    Blood Cancer    Leukemia

New Research Grant Underscores the CU Cancer Center’s Long Relationship With the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society 

In research that reinforces the University of Colorado Cancer Center’s longstanding relationship with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS), CU Cancer Center member Lauren Nicholas, PhD, MPP, is co-principal investigator on a new LLS-funded study to examine the role of Medicare plan selection in dealing with a blood cancer diagnosis.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date August 30, 2022
Full Story

Community    Awareness    Breast Cancer

U.S. Supreme Court Dobbs Decision Will Harm Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer During Pregnancy

Each year, about 27,000 women age 45 or younger are diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States. Of those, about 4% are pregnant at the time of their diagnosis.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 27, 2022
Full Story

Research    Breast Cancer    DNA   

Researchers Find Less Risky Way to Monitor Breast Cancer Progression

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus have discovered how to extract critical information about breast cancer tumors and disease progression by analyzing blood plasma rather than using more invasive tissue biopsies.

“This is simply a blood draw,” said the study’s senior co-author Peter Kabos, MD, associate professor of medicine in the medical oncology division at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and CU Cancer Center member. “This allows us to look under the surface to see the defining characteristics of the disease. The advantage is that we don’t need to do repeated tissue biopsies.”


Author David Kelly | Publish Date August 25, 2022
Full Story

Community    Breast Cancer    Lung Cancer

Cancer is A Leading Cause of Death in Colorado 

Deaths from COVID-19 and drug overdoses grabbed a lot of the headlines in 2021, but recently released numbers from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment show that cancer was still a leading cause of death in the state, and the number-one cause of death for the 45–84 age range.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date August 22, 2022
Full Story

Research    Education    Students    Diversity   

Diversity in Cancer Research Program Hosts Undergraduate Students for Hands-On Experience at CU Cancer Center

For Isaiah Richardson, conducting research as an American Cancer Society Diversity in Cancer Research Intern this summer was an important academic and professional experience, but it was also personal.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 18, 2022
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Awareness    Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer Patient Thriving and Optimistic after Multidisciplinary Care

Less than a year ago, Ken Herfert got a puppy and named her Bailey after the Colorado town where she was born.

This was a big deal for several reasons, including the responsibility of adopting a new family member, but perhaps the biggest was this: About six months after receiving a diagnosis of esophageal cancer in early 2018, Herfert’s oncologist in California told him he had maybe a year to live, maybe less.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 16, 2022
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Cancer    CU Anschutz 360 Podcast    lymphoma

Why Is CAR T-Cell Therapy ‘One of the Most Phenomenal Advances in Science’?

This episode of CU Anschutz 360 focuses on a promising breakthrough therapy for patients with large B-cell lymphoma, an aggressive subtype of the disease. The clinical trial was led by Manali Kamdar, MD, clinical director of the lymphoma program in the Division of Hematology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date August 16, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Blood Cancer    Clinical Research    lymphoma

Rolling the Dice: Gamble Pays Off For Cancer Patient in CAR T-Cell Clinical Trial

Family, friends and positive attitudes helped Katherine Haug through months of failed attempts at ridding her body of cancer. Then a passionate doctor with an experimental treatment gave the wife, mother and grandmother a big reason to smile.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date August 15, 2022
Full Story

Research    Cancer    Clinical Trials

Studying Psychedelics to Treat Psychiatric Distress in Late-Stage Cancer

The effects of cancer are not just physical, especially in advanced stages of the disease. People living with a cancer diagnosis may experience depression, anxiety, and fear, or feel demoralized by the weight of new and unanticipated burdens.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 15, 2022
Full Story

Research    Community    Faculty   

First In-Person Nuclear Receptors IMPACT Meeting Focuses on Support and Collaboration

For many researchers, the end of a post-doctoral fellowship and entry into a junior faculty position can be a time without a map.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 12, 2022
Full Story

Research    Brain and Spinal Cancer   

Lipid Nanoparticles Show Significant Promise in Carrying Cancer Drugs to Tumors

Among the biggest obstacles in studying and treating brain tumors are the blood-brain and blood-tumor barriers (BBTB). Generally, just a small amount of drug that is injected into the blood to treat brain tumors is able to penetrate blood vessel walls and accumulate in the brain.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 10, 2022
Full Story

Community    Breast Cancer

Olivia Newton-John Dies After 30-Year Breast Cancer Battle 

After a 30-year, off-and-on battle with metastatic breast cancer, Australian-born actress and singer Olivia Newton-John died on August 8 at age 73. Best known for her role as Sandy in the 1978 movie musical “Grease,” Newton-John also hit the music charts with singles like “Physical” and “Magic.” 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date August 09, 2022
Full Story

Research    Community   

Emphasizing The Importance of Patient Navigation 

A cancer diagnosis can be difficult to work through in the best of circumstances, but factor in barriers related to language, insurance status, educational achievement, geographic location, income level, and more, and the cancer journey — everything from prevention and screening to diagnosis and treatment — can become nearly impossible to traverse. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date August 05, 2022
Full Story

Research    Breast Cancer

Research Shows Low Patient Comprehension of Terms Commonly Found in Electronic Health Information

When the 21st Century Cures Act went into effect in April 2021, health care organizations began releasing electronic health information (EHI) to patients immediately.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 04, 2022
Full Story

Research    Brain and Spinal Cancer    Cancer

A Bait-and-Fish Approach to Netting Deadly Brain Tumor Trigger?

All cells in the human body secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs), tiny membrane-enclosed sacs that deliver important cargo – including RNA, proteins, lipids and DNA – to other cells. Cancer cells, notorious for rapid growth, are prolific EV creators.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date August 02, 2022
Full Story

Research    Breast Cancer   

Study Could Lead to Better Education and Treatment of Sexual Health for Breast Cancer Patients

A new study released by the University of Colorado Cancer Center shows that more than 70 percent of breast cancer patients have reported changes that affect their sexual health during and beyond treatment.


Author Laura Kelley | Publish Date August 02, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Community   

193 CU Faculty Recognized as 5280 Magazine Top Doctors for 2022

Denver-area magazine 5280 recently published its list of top doctors for 2022. On this year’s list, CU School of Medicine faculty members continue to be ranked among the best. We're proud to congratulate the 193 CU School of Medicine faculty members honored with the title "Top Doctor."


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date August 02, 2022
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Research    Community    Lung Cancer

ALK Positive Summit Focuses on Community and Survivorship

Until 2007, about 1 in 20 lung cancer patients all had the same thing in common but did not know it.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date August 01, 2022
Full Story

Research    Community    Cancer

Newly Developed Reference Chart Helps Monitor Cancer-Related Fatigue Improvements Through Exercise Program

For people living with and beyond cancer, one of the most common and limiting side effects is cancer-related fatigue (CRF).


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date July 29, 2022
Full Story

Research    Press Releases    Lung Cancer   

CU Cancer Center Study Aims to Predict Critical Markers for Lung Cancer Treatments

A new study from the University of Colorado Cancer Center explores which lung cancer patients are the best candidates for novel therapies that directly target a gene identified as driving certain cancers.


Author Julia Milzer | Publish Date July 27, 2022
Full Story

Research    Sarcoma

CU Cancer Center Hosts Conference on Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus 

Some 100 researchers from around the world were in Aurora last week to discuss the latest findings and news around Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), the virus that causes a type of cancer known as Kaposi sarcoma.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date July 21, 2022
Full Story

Research    Endometrial Cancer   

Access to National Patient Data Aids CU Cancer Research  

The bad news about endometrial cancer — cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus — is that it is one of the few cancers that is increasing in incidence even as most other cancers are on the decline, thanks to advances in treatment and prevention.  


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date July 18, 2022
Full Story

Research    Immunotherapy    lymphoma

Research Shows CAR T Cell Therapy Is Effective Second-Line Treatment for Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Large B-cell lymphoma (LBCL) is one of the most aggressive lymphomas and accounts for about 30% of all lymphoma diagnoses.


Author Rachel Sauer | Publish Date July 14, 2022
Full Story

Community    Radiation

What is Radiation Therapy?

Oncologists have many tools they use to treat cancer, and one of the most commonly used is radiation therapy. In use since the early 1900s, radiation therapy uses high-energy particles or waves — including x-rays, gamma rays, electron beams, and protons — to destroy or damage cancer cells. The machine that delivers radiation therapy has a head that rotates 360 degrees, and patients lie on a special bench that swivels, allowing the radiation to be delivered from any angle.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date July 13, 2022
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Sarcoma    Clinical Trials   

Beating a Deadly Sarcoma 

Ward McNeilly thought he was a goner.  

It was summer 2021, and the sarcoma that had started in the Denver resident’s left thigh seemed to be under control, subdued by radiation and chemotherapy following a surgery in 2018 to remove the initial tumor and another surgery in 2019 to remove cancerous tumors in his groin. McNeilly was doing so well, in fact, that his doctors at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital authorized a “chemo vacation” to give his body a break from some of the side effects of the treatment.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date July 11, 2022
Full Story

Research    Thyroid Cancer   

AI Can Recognize Thyroid Nodules That Are Very Unlikely To Be Cancerous 

Artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to reduce the number of biopsies of benign thyroid nodules, according to new research from University of Colorado Cancer Center member Nikita Pozdeyev, MD. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date July 08, 2022
Full Story

Patient Care    Community   

U.S. News Ranks Children’s Hospital Colorado Among Top 10 in the Country

Children’s Hospital Colorado is once again ranked among the top 10 children’s hospitals in the country by U.S. News and World Report. The magazine released its 2022–23 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings this week, and Children’s Colorado is ranked number 7 nationally and number 1 in the Rocky Mountain region and state of Colorado.


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date June 15, 2022
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Research    Breast Cancer

First-Year Medical Student Receives Research Award From the Endocrine Society 

Michael Boysen didn’t know that a research award from the Endocrine Society was in his future when he started working in the lab of University of Colorado Cancer Center member Matthew Sikora, PhD, last fall. But earlier this month, Boysen — a first-year medical student in the CU School of Medicine — got word that he is one of the recipients of the Endocrine Society’s Research Experiences for Graduate and Medical Students Award for 2022. In addition to $2,500 in research funding, the award includes participation in a summer research project and seminars on career development. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 31, 2022
Full Story

Research    Students    Brain and Spinal Cancer    CU Medicine Today

Mentorship for the Win  

Sanjana Bukkapatnam, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, scored a victory in April when her paper on her glioblastoma research took first place in the National Poster Competition at the American College of Physicians Conference in Chicago. 


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 25, 2022
Full Story

Press Releases    Faculty   

Heide Ford Named Chair of Pharmacology at CU School of Medicine

Heide Ford, PhD, professor of pharmacology, has been named chair of the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, effective June 15.


Author Mark Couch | Publish Date May 17, 2022
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Patient Care    Clinical Trials    CU Medicine Today   

Treating Metastatic Uveal Melanoma

Brigette Douglass lives by the 10% rule: To avoid losing sight of the big picture of her life, she never lets anything consume more than 10% of her focus.

This approach has allowed a full embrace of family, career, and world travel adventures while also becoming one of the longest-participating patients in a clinical trial for metastatic uveal melanoma.


Author Rachel Wittel | Publish Date April 27, 2022
Full Story

Research    Lung Cancer    Cancer

CU Lung Cancer Experts Provide a Global Foundation for Change

In recognition of World Cancer Day, we talk with Ross Camidge, MD, PhD, professor and director of thoracic oncology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and member of the CU Cancer Center.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date February 04, 2022
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Education    Community   

State of the School 2022

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Colorado School of Medicine still had many accomplishments to celebrate in 2021.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 13, 2022
Full Story

Research    Education    Students   

Medical Student Receives Grant to Help With Cannabis Study

Emma Lamping, a second-year student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, has received a $5,000 “Emerging Scientist Award” from the Institute of Cannabis Research in Pueblo, Colorado, for her work on a research study comparing postoperative pain medication requirements and surgical outcomes after major abdominal surgery for the treatment of cancer between daily cannabis users and nonusers of cannabis.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date January 06, 2022
Full Story

Innovation    Patient Care    Cancer

Virtual Reality Opens Patients’ Eyes to Their Own Cancerous Tumors

Thomas Delong, PhD, remembers the first time he saw the walnut-sized tumor growing on the base of his tongue.


Author Chris Casey and Russell Stone | Publish Date December 06, 2021
Full Story

Pharmacy    Oncology

Fulbright Sends O'Bryant to Nigeria

Dr. Cindy O’Bryant, PharmD, Professor in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy, received a Fulbright Specialist Program Scholar Award. A program of the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright Specialist Program is a unique opportunity for U.S. academics and established professionals to engage in two to six-week, project-based exchanges at host institutions across the globe. On November 27, Dr. O’Bryant left the U.S. for Nigeria with other oncology pharmacists to share her knowledge and experience in cancer care to advance pharmacy oncology practice. She made time to answer questions before her trip about her award, what she expects from the field, and what she hopes to share with medical professionals in Nigeria.


Author Jordan Kellerman | Publish Date December 01, 2021
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Patient Care    Cancer

Harnessing the Healing Power of a Doctor-Patient Relationship

With the quiet comfort of a caring partner, Sue Krummrei reaches over and pats her husband’s leg as he breaks down on camera.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date November 23, 2021
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Press Releases    Funding    Advancement   

CU School of Medicine Names New Endowed Chair in Retinal Diseases

Scott Oliver, MD, chief of the Retina Service and director of the Eye Cancer Program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, has been named the inaugural Vitale-Schlessman Endowed Chair in Retinal Diseases at the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, effective Nov. 1, 2021. 


Author Rachel Wittel | Publish Date November 16, 2021
Full Story

Lung Cancer

CU Experts: Extinguishing Smoking Stigma, Promoting Screening Can Save Lives

Comedian Kathy Griffin’s recently announced lung cancer diagnosis came early and arose from a non-related health screening. A lucky catch, and an understandable path to detection for a person who never smoked.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date August 13, 2021
Full Story

Innovation    Press Releases    Pancreatic Cancer    Magazine

University of Colorado Cancer Center Earns Distinguished Title from National Pancreas Foundation Academic Center of Excellence

The most important factor predicting the survival of pancreatic cancer patients is whether the cancer can be surgically removed (whether the cancer is “resectable”). The answer isn’t always clear.


Author Siyab Khan | Publish Date August 05, 2021
Full Story

Patient Care    Community   

138 CU Faculty Recognized as 5280 Magazine Top Doctors

Each year, Denver-area magazine 5280 publishes its list of top doctors. On this year’s list, which came out last week, CU School of Medicine faculty members continue to be ranked among the best. We are proud to congratulate the 138 CU School of Medicine faculty members honored with the title Top Doctor.


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date August 04, 2021
Full Story

Research    Cancer

Tricking Cellular Powerhouse to Circumvent Chemotherapy Resistance

Since a chance discovery by U.S. Army scientists studying mustard gas during World War II, chemotherapy has added countless years to cancer patients’ lives around the world.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date June 24, 2021
Full Story

Patient Care    Community   

U.S. News Ranks Children’s Hospital Colorado Among the Nation’s Best

U.S. News and World Report released its 2021–22 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings this week. Children’s Hospital Colorado ranked number 6 nationally and placed seven pediatric specialties in the top 10, including a number-one ranking for gastroenterology and gastrointestinal surgery. Children’s Colorado is affiliated with the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Together, the institutions are a national center for clinical care and medical research.


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date June 15, 2021
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Research    Patient Care    Community   

Patients Now Have Immediate Access to Their Medical Records. How Can Providers Help Them Make Sense of the Data?

Patients’ rights advocates scored a major victory in April, when a provision went into effect that allows patients immediate access to all information in their medical records, including physician notes and test results. The change is part of the 21st Century Cures Act, which was passed by Congress in 2016 and continues to be updated.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date June 14, 2021
Full Story

Community    COVID-19   

CU School of Medicine Doctor Working to Get COVID-19 Supplies to India

After seeing the tragic COVID-19 crisis unfolding in India, Saketh Guntupalli, MD, associate professor of gynecologic oncology in the University of Colorado School of Medicine and member of the University of Colorado Cancer Center, decided to do something about it.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date May 19, 2021
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Research    Cancer    Surgical Oncology

Untangling Medical Cannabis

Medical cannabis was legalized in Colorado in 2000, but 20 years later, Camille Stewart, MD, isn’t able to prescribe it to her patients. Nor is she able to dictate the dosage or frequency with which patients take the drug.


Author Greg Glasgow | Publish Date December 07, 2020
Full Story

Research    Patient Care    Lung Cancer    Cancer    CU Anschutz 360 Podcast

Podcast: ‘You Have to Personalize the Miracles’

Melissa Turner had already survived two bouts of breast cancer, so the last thing she expected to hear in early 2018 after experiencing a series of mysterious symptoms was, “You’ve got lung cancer.”


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date November 02, 2020
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Skin Cancer    Melanoma    Surgical Oncology

Melanoma Care is a Priority for the CU School of Medicine and Cancer Center

If you live in or have visited Colorado, you most likely noticed that the state loves its outdoors. With 300 days of sunshine a year, many enjoy hiking, playing at a park or grabbing a craft brew on a patio. But with that love of sunshine comes an increased risk for skin cancer.


Author School of Medicine | Publish Date October 28, 2020
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Research    Head and Neck Cancer    Cancer

Rock Icon Eddie Van Halen Joins List of Musicians Gone Too Soon

In a 1983 concert video, guitar legend Eddie Van Halen abandons his pick as he sets the stage for his famous "Eruption" solo. After popping the pick into his mouth and tucking a cigarette into the top strings of his guitar, the well-loved musician’s fingers fly across his instrument’s neck, a trail of smoke rising from it with every wailing note.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date October 19, 2020
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Research    Patient Care    Community    Prostate Cancer    Urology

Improving Patient Outcomes in Prostate Cancer

Although prostate cancer is treatable when found early, there are common fears that men share concerning prostate cancer.

“I hear from patients all the time stating they do not want to get tested and they do not want to know if they have prostate cancer. Due to the possible side effects associated with treatment,” says Paul Maroni, MD, associate professor in the Department of Surgery, Urology Division, program director of the Urologic Cancer Care Center and University of Colorado (CU) Cancer Center member.


Author Department of Surgery | Publish Date October 01, 2020
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Research    Patient Care    Community    Prostate Cancer    Cancer    Urology

Former Broncos Punter Wants Men to Share Their Experience With Prostate Cancer

Growing up, Douglas “Bucky” Dilts was all too familiar with the dangers of cancer. “My mother ran a cancer tumor registry at St Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia for over 25 years. She was always telling us about different types of cancer, so cancer was always at the forefront.”  


Author Department of Surgery | Publish Date September 23, 2020
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Patient Care    Gynecologic Cancer    Blood Cancer    Cancer

Living to Live: Friends Face Off Cancer; Find Strength in Each Other

From “No Hair Don’t Care” to “Keep Calm and Colorado On,” four friends facing two grim diagnoses used humor and grit in their battles against cancer. All four contend that, without their outlook and a little fate, their crusade might have had a different ending.


Author Debra Melani | Publish Date September 15, 2020
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Community    Colorectal Cancer

Chadwick Boseman's Death Shines 'Unfortunate Light' on Young-adult Cancer

Chadwick Boseman’s all-too-early death has cast the spotlight on a trend University of Colorado School of Medicine doctors have been heralding for nearly two decades. Colorectal cancer, the disease that took the acclaimed actor of “Black Panther” fame, no longer falls in the old-person’s disease bucket.
Author Debra Melani | Publish Date September 04, 2020
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Patient Care    Pancreatic Cancer

This Is Breakthrough: Dr. Richard Schulick

“I hate cancer more than anyone,” says Richard Schulick, MD, director of the University of Colorado Cancer Center and chair of the Department of Surgery


Author Staff | Publish Date February 04, 2020
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Patient Care   

Veteran’s Pancreatic Cancer Caught ‘At Just the Right Time’

Steve Becker always looks forward to Veterans Day. He and his father, Don, both did hitches in the Navy, so it’s a special day they set aside to hang out and reflect on their service to the nation.


Author Chris Casey | Publish Date January 16, 2020
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Patient Care    Pancreatic Cancer    Cancer

The Power of a Second Opinion: Karen Possehl's Story

Karen Possehl was diagnosed with cancer in November 2016. At the Mayo Clinic in Arizona, her doctor told her that the type of cancer she had was inoperable and wouldn't respond to radiation or chemotherapy. He expected her to live only a few more months.


Author Department of Surgery | Publish Date November 30, 2018
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Research    Patient Care    Community    Sarcoma

Dr. Breelyn Wilky Joins Sarcoma Team

The CU Sarcoma Clinic is pleased to welcome Breelyn A. Wilky, MD, to our multidisciplinary team. Dr. Wilky joined the Medical Oncology faculty in the cancer clinic on November 1, 2018.


Author Department of Surgery | Publish Date November 01, 2018
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CU Cancer Center In the News

Medscape

Cannabis Use Improved Sleep and Pain in Cancer Patients

news outletMedscape
Publish DateMay 04, 2023

Cannabis use among patients with cancer helped relieve pain and improve sleep quality as well as subjective cognitive function, a new study suggests.

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Science News

Women Who’ve Had Breast Cancer Can Safely Pause Treatment for Pregnancy

news outletScience News
Publish DateMay 03, 2023

For women who’ve had breast cancer and want to have a child, taking a break from a common treatment to try for a pregnancy appears safe in the short term.

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The Colorado Sun

Colorado Clinics Could Soon Be Reimbursed for Linking Patients to Healthy Food, Housing Services

news outletThe Colorado Sun
Publish DateApril 27, 2023

Colorado lawmakers approved a plan that could lead to a program to fund community health work that bolsters traditional medical care. 

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CBS News

Cigarette Smoking Rate Hits All-Time Low Among American Adults

news outletCBS News
Publish DateApril 27, 2023

U.S. cigarette smoking dropped to another all-time low last year, with 1 in 9 adults saying they were current smokers.

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