Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center

A large, retrospective study of the children of childhood cancer survivors who were treated with radiation therapy and/or some forms of chemotherapy found that the offspring do not have an increased risk for birth defects compared to children of cancer survivors who did not receive these treatments. The findings provide reassurance that increased risks of [...]

In the 40 years since President Nixon “declared war” on cancer, much progress has been made. We are screening more, catching cancers sooner, using DNA information to tailor treatment to the individual. Still, cancer is responsible for one in four deaths in the United States.

Jadranko “Yadi” Franjic describes lymphedema symptoms and what is done during therapy to help control the swelling in the lymphatic system. Lymphedema is most common among patients who experience trauma to their lymphatic system. Examples include cancer patients undergoing lymphatic node dissection or radiation therapy and those who suffer a traumatic injury. Swelling of the [...]

Many times those going through cancer treatment and even those who have finished have questions about eating a healthy diet. Melissa Brown, a nutrition coach at the Vanderbilt Center for Integrative Health, describes different foods that have cancer-fighting agents in them as well as easy meal techniques. If you are interested in learning more about [...]

The RENEW: Gentle Movement Classes is part of the Vanderbilt Cancer Wellness Program and are for adults going through cancer treatment as well as those who have finished. Karen Dyer-Klein, an exercise specialist at the Vanderbilt Dayani Center, describes the types of workouts available, which include Ai Chi (aquatic exercise) on Mondays at 3:15 p.m., [...]

Are you currently going through lung cancer or pancreatic cancer treatment or have completed therapy? Jay Groves, administrative director at Vanderbilt Dayani Center, describes the new Vanderbilt Cancer Wellness Program. This program promotes the health and wellbeing of those touched by cancer through interactive, individualized and comprehensive services that complement your standard of care. Learn [...]

Have you ever tried to quit smoking and been unsuccessful? As a former smoker, Barbara Forbes, a clinical nurse specialist and nurse practitioner, knows what you’re going through. She directs the Dayani Institute for Smoking Cessation and Prevention at Vanderbilt, and she can help you kick the habit for good. Learn more about the Smoking [...]

November is a special month for us to be thankful for our neighbors, family and friends. It is also a time to raise awareness for lung and pancreatic cancers. These cancer types rank in the top five for causing the most cancer-related deaths. Lung cancer being number one and pancreatic cancer ranking number 4 according [...]

As a 15-year breast cancer survivor, Lynne Cargen continues her fight against cancer as a research advocate at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. She works with Carlos Arteaga, M.D. and his team of researchers in the Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE) in Breast Cancer. Cargen said that she has been committed to raising awareness and becoming [...]

Anne Washburn, M.P.H., associate director of Patient and Community Education for Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, will receive an award for her support of the Sisters Network Inc. The group is a national survivorship organization committed to increasing local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the African-American community. Washburn will be honored [...]