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Palliative Care Call 775-982-5098 Palliative and Supportive Care provides specialized medical care for serious illnesses and diseases, including advanced cancer, kidney failure or heart disease.

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Cancer Treatment Cancer treatment at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute includes advanced options ranging from chemotherapy and radiation to surgery and clinical trials.

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Planning Your Care at Renown Your care is a team effort, combining the skill and expertise of doctors, nurses, and other support staff who specialize in cancer diagnosis and treatment. This collaboration happens on multiple levels so that you receive the best possible care and treatment specific to your needs. Multidisciplinary Care “Multidisciplinary” refers to the collaboration between providers from different backgrounds or disciplines and can include doctors, advanced practice nurses, registered nurses, therapists, dietitians and social workers. These teams meet regularly to discuss patient care so that each patient benefits from the professional opinion of a wide range of experts.   Multispecialty Treatment Depending on your diagnosis, several different specialists may be involved in your treatment. Pathologists study tissue samples in the lab to confirm the diagnosis. Radiologists diagnose and track cancer with various imaging techniques. Medical oncologists treat cancer with chemotherapy and other medications. Radiation oncologists treat cancer with radiation therapy. Surgical oncologists treat cancer through surgery. Medical Geneticists diagnose cancer through genetic counseling. Gynecologic Oncologists treat cancers of the female reproductive system. These specialists meet to discuss your care plan and coordinate to make sure you’re receiving proven evidence-based care.   Center of Excellence A Center of Excellence is recognized for having a multidisciplinary, multispecialty team that provides leadership in research, training and best practices. Renown has three Centers of Excellence that focus on site-specific cancers. These include: Breast Cancer Gastrointestinal Cancer (colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and stomach) Thoracic Cancer (lung and esophagus) These teams regularly meet to develop and update clinical guidelines, identify quality initiatives, evaluate clinical trials, and assess new technology and processes.   Cancer Conferences (Tumor Boards) Multidisciplinary, multispecialty cancer conferences (also called tumor boards) allow cancer specialists, genetic specialists, nurse navigators, nurses, social workers, dietitians, physical therapy specialists, and other providers the opportunity to review new and open cancer cases together and provide expertise from several different viewpoints. This collaboration allows them to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient early in diagnosis or changes to a patient’s clinical status.   Who is my point of contact? Having multiple doctors who are working with even more doctors can become confusing for patients. Your Nurse Navigator will guide you through your care, provide you with the resources you need and answer your questions. Nurse Navigators

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Early detection plays a crucial role in effectively managing cancer. By undergoing regular cancer screening tests, you can identify the presence of cancerous cells or tumors even before symptoms manifest. It provides an opportunity for timely intervention and increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery. At the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, your care team is essential in determining which screenings are most appropriate for you and your family based on your medical history, age, and risk factors. They can guide you through the various screening options available and address any concerns or questions you may have. Cancer screening tests encompass a range of examinations, including imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, as well as specific tests like mammograms, Pap smears, colonoscopies, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests. These screenings aim to detect breast, lung, prostate, colorectal, cervical, and other types of cancers. By prioritizing cancer screenings and preventive measures, you take an active role in safeguarding your health. Detecting cancer early significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and improves overall outcomes. Prevention Cancer prevention is a vital aspect of maintaining overall health and well-being. One significant preventive measure is the administration of HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can lead to several types of cancers, including cervical, vaginal, vulvar, anal, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers. HPV vaccines are designed to protect against high-risk HPV strains responsible for the majority of these infections. By getting vaccinated, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing HPV-related cancers. These vaccines are most effective when administered before exposure to the virus through sexual activity. Therefore, early vaccination, ideally during adolescence or early adulthood, is crucial for long-term protection. By prioritizing HPV vaccination as part of comprehensive cancer prevention strategies, individuals can take proactive steps towards reducing the risk of these preventable cancers.

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The William N. Pennington Cancer Institute is dedicated to find the causes of cancer and develop better treatments. We research a wide variety of areas. We perform traditional research in the laboratory and translational research with patients, and we look at how we provide counseling and support and clinical trials, in which patients have the option to try new therapies. We partner with research institutions, including local researchers at the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) and the Desert Research Institute (DRI), national and international researchers, non-profit organizations, and industry to help drive discoveries forward quickly. Cancer Clinical Trials & Research Participating in cancer clinical trials and research allows you to receive the most effective therapy available. These treatments investigate promising new drugs, drug combinations, advances in personalized care, and new approaches to surgery or radiation therapy otherwise unavailable. To join a clinical trial, talk to a member of your cancer care team. They will know about any current trials for your type of cancer, explain your role in the preparation, and provide information about your protection. Trial participants usually receive the therapy at little or no cost. If you are considering a trial, consult with your primary care doctor. At William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, we want to provide our patients with the opportunity to access novel treatments through participation in clinical trials. For adult patients, we offer clinical trials through the National Cancer Institute Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP). Dr. Garrett Green, Renown Health department of Radiation Oncology, serves as the Principal Investigator and Liaison for the adult oncology team. For specific information on which trials are currently available at our institution, please call us at 775-982-5050. For children, we offer clinical trials including phase 2 and phase 3 studies through the Children's Oncology Group. Dr. J. Martin Johnston, Chief of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Renown Children's Hospital and Senior Investigator, Renown Institute for Cancer, is the Principal Investigator. The Cancer Research Team As the most extensive healthcare system in northern Nevada and eastern California, and in partnership with clinical trial sponsors, the National Cancer Institute, and the Nevada Cancer Research Foundation, we can access dozens of open clinical trials. We are here to provide education and guidance in making decisions about your care and treatment. Our specially trained research teams will help you understand the process and explain what to expect with each visit. We are committed to bringing the highest quality of cancer care to you and your loved ones. To learn more about open clinical trials, please reach out to us with this form.

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Why Choose Renown? Should breast cancer be detected from your screening, your radiologist will present your case at our Breast Cancer Tumor Boards. This meeting gives the radiologist, cancer specialists, genetic specialists, nurse navigators, nurses, social workers and other providers the opportunity to review your case and develop a comprehensive treatment plan early in diagnosis. A registered oncology breast nurse navigator is available to serve as your ongoing resource from diagnosis through treatment and during survivorship. The William N. Pennington Cancer Institute earned accreditation from National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). Alongside the Renown Breast Health Center, we have skilled medical professionals with a multidisciplinary approach to breast cancer treatment and care, and the latest early detection technology to save lives. Breast cancer begins when abnormal cells in the breast grow out of control forming tumors that can spread to surrounding tissue and move to other parts of the body. If initial screenings indicate that breast cancer may be present, your doctor will conduct further tests to confirm a diagnosis. Talk to your doctor if you notice changes in your breasts, such as: A lump or thickening in/near the breast, underarm or around the collarbone   A change in the size or shape of the breast  A change in the color or feel of the skin of the breast or nipple area (such as dimples, puckering, redness, swelling or scaliness)  Clear or bloody nipple discharge   Changes in the nipple, such as an open ulcer, a new inverting of the nipple or unusual tenderness

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Renown’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute is a comprehensive Cancer Care Center that understands the challenges patients face after a cancer diagnosis. It is important to offer patients and their caregivers the specialty services, treatments and cancer resources in one convenient location. Cancer treatment at Renown offers access to The Sally de Lipkau Cancer Resource Center which provides information and tailored support programs to patients. Additional resources include having a Certified Mastectomy Fitter for personalized care and partnering with Nutrition Services to customize dietary plans throughout treatment. Your care team also includes working with compassionate Social Workers who assist with emotional support and practical matters of your journey, as well as skilled nurse navigators who ensure seamless coordination of appointments.

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Family Member Resources A cancer diagnosis can be hard and stressful for everyone in the family. At Renown Health, our support services are designed to help you and your family receive personalized care and continuous guidance throughout your journey. You will be connected with counselors, dietitians and social workers, each of whom specialize in working with cancer patients. Cancer Counseling Emotional and mental health is a vital component of the healing and recovery process. Ask about a referral to Renown Behavioral Health to help you address the emotional aspects of cancer. Counseling services may include emotional and psychological support, treatment of depression and anxiety, as well as stress management and relaxation techniques. Counseling sessions are available by appointment. Financial Counseling Financial counselors can help determine how much of the bill will be covered by insurance. They can also find sources of financial aid that may be available to you.

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GO2 Foundation Screening Center of Excellence The William N. Pennington Cancer Institute has been named a Screening Center of Excellence by GO2 Foundation Screening Center of Excellence for our ongoing commitment to responsible lung cancer screening. Prevention Most lung cancer cases stem from a history of smoking tobacco, but there are other known causes. You can take steps to eliminate some of the causes from your lifestyle and environment, such as: Tobacco smoke: The most critical step you can take to prevent lung cancer is to avoid tobacco smoke altogether, including secondhand smoke. Radon: This chemical element occurs naturally in the environment. It’s odorless and colorless, which means testing is the only way to determine if it’s present in your home. Radon testing kits and radon mitigation systems are available at retailers. Radon test kits are available through the Nevada Radon Education Program.  Asbestos: This fibrous mineral causes cancer and other diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. If you suspect your home contains asbestos, contact a local asbestos testing and removal service. Diesel exhaust: Avoid exposure to diesel fumes. The World Health Organization found that diesel exhaust causes not only lung cancer but also other cancers. Chemical exposure: Always take the necessary steps to protect yourself from inhaling harmful particles, fumes, and gasses by wearing appropriately rated masks or respirators.

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JoAnne's Legacy Continues to Serve Others As a legacy to the late JoAnne Gould and the indelible mark she made in 44 years of helping cancer patients and their families in our community, we are pleased to offer the JoAnne Gould Educational Scholarship. JoAnne’s model of generosity and compassion continues to inspire those who worked with her. Help us keep her mission going by applying for a $690 scholarship to enhance your education and aspire to become an ambassador for cancer patients like JoAnne.

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Your Cancer Care Team Close to Home The William N. Pennington Cancer Institute team wants you to feel confident in the care we provide. Our dedicated doctors, nurses, therapists, dietitians, social workers, and other support staff work together to assure you receive the best care close to home. We serve our communities with the primary location in Reno, a satellite office at Carson Valley Health, and through Telehealth at Banner Churchill Community Hospital in Fallon, Nevada.

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At Renown's William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, we offer a comprehensive range of surgical oncology services aimed at diagnosing, treating, and managing various types of cancer.  Our experienced surgical oncologists specialize in a variety of procedures, including minimally invasive surgeries, robotic-assisted surgeries, and complex tumor resections. We utilize the latest surgical techniques and technologies to ensure precise, effective, and safe treatment outcomes for our patients. Our surgical oncology team collaborates closely with other specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists, to develop individualized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs and preferences. We believe in a multidisciplinary care approach that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and coordination to provide comprehensive care and support throughout the entire cancer journey. Surgical Procedures Can Include: Tumor resection Lumpectomy Mastectomy Lymph node dissection Prostatectomy Hysterectomy Nephrectomy Colectomy Gastrectomy Whipple procedure

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