Cancer Care

Cancer Program

Finding out that you or a loved one has cancer can be overwhelming. You may have many questions. Or you may not even know where to begin or what questions to ask. We want you to know that we are here to help you. Although your physicians are your greatest resource regarding your personalized care, there are also many other valuable sources of information, including but not limited to, the American Cancer Society, support groups, informational websites, and much more.

About Cancer

What is Cancer?

Cancer is a term used for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and are able to invade other tissues. It can also occur when cells forget how to die. There are more than 100 types of cancer and are usually named for the organ or type of cell in which they start. Metastasis or spreading of cancer, usually occurs through the blood stream or the lymphatic system.

What causes cancer?

Cancer can affect anyone at any age. The cause of cancer remains unknown and so research continues. However many risk factors have been identified. The following are some of those risk factors:

Genetic problems

Environmental toxins
Excessive sunlight exposure
Obesity
Radiation
Viruses

Cancer Prevention

You can reduce the risk of cancer by:
Staying away from tobacco (smoking and chewing)
Eating healthy
Getting active
Being safe in the sun
Limiting alcohol
Maintaining a healthy weight
Minimizing exposure to radiation and toxic chemicals

Cancer screenings may help catch cancer at early stages when they are most treatable, including:
Mammography and breast exams for breast cancer
Colonoscopy for colon cancer

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are currently being done in the area of cancer to improve treatment, screening, prevention, and quality of life. Clinical research is used to advance science and ensure that patient care approaches the highest possible level of quality. Patients who participate in clinical trials have the opportunity to advance evidence-based medicine. To find out if a clinical trial is right for you, speak to your physician.

Local offices offering clinical trials:
Pacific Cancer Medical Center
All clinical trials currently conducted at this office will be listed at http://clinicaltrials.gov
May also contact the office at 714-999-1465 and ask to speak to someone in the research department.
Patients will need a consultation before being considered for a trial.

The Oncology Institute of Hope & Innovation
For a current list of clinical trials being offered at this location please visit the website which is updated daily.
Patients have no financial obligations for costs associated with clinical trials.

Please contact the office at 714-399-0620 to find out if you are eligible for a current trial

Additional resources for finding clinical trials:

AHMC International Cancer Center (626) 571-6100
Comprehensive cancer center in Monterey Park.
Multi-lingual services provided.

American Cancer Society 1(800) 303-5691
A free and confidential program that helps patients and their families find cancer clinical trials most appropriate to a patient's medical and personal situation.

Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center (714) 456-8000
You will be able to search to find clinical trials currently being conducted at University of California, Irvine.

Clinical Trials.gov
A registry and result database of federally and privately run clinical trials being conducted throughout the United * States and around the world.

*Anaheim Regional Medical Center is not directly involved with clinical trials*

Services

Tumor Boards

A Tumor Board is held once a month and a Breast and Colon Conference is held twice a month. Cancer cases are presented at either conference for diagnosis review and treatment planning. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines are reviewed for treatment planning for each case.

Cancer Registry

The cancer registry is an integral part of the hospital-based ARMC Cancer Program. The Cancer Registry is a computerized data system designed for the collection, management and analysis of cancer data for patients who are diagnosed and/or treated at ARMC. It serves as a data source for clinical and administrative staff, and other healthcare providers, for special studies, audits, and research.

Pastoral Care

The Pastoral Care Services staff assesses and provides for the spiritual needs of patients and their families. The Pastoral Care mission affirms that spiritual health contributes to over all well-being, healing, and a successful hospitalization. Pastoral Care Services strives to maximize a patient's spiritual health while hospitalized, and through respect for all religions and cultures, the sacredness, dignity and privacy of each patient is recognized and honored.

Social Services

Oncology social workers provide the support needed for patients to manage the day-to-day challenges of living with cancer. Social workers also provide counseling, education, and information and/or referrals to community resources such as, support groups. They work with the medical team to ensure the patients have the information they need to make informed choices about their care.

Case management

Case management work with patients and the family to ensure a safe discharge. Will work with the patient and insurance to coordinate additional equipment if needed. Will also coordinate with home health or palliative care alternatives if requested.

Nutrition

Registered dietitians are available to provide a comprehensive evaluation of your nutritional status. They work with the medical staff to provide diet education. Can also work with your physician on determining if any dietary supplements or nutrition support will be needed.

Tobacco Cessation

Quitting Tobacco is the most important step you can take for a healthier life. The tobacco cessation program offers five week cessation classes, seminars, telephone counseling, and individual counseling. Information can be provided in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. More information can be given by contacting the Tobacco Cessation Department at 714-999-3991.