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Every year, 16,000 children face the daunting diagnosis of cancer, and what might surprise you is that almost 90% of them receive treatment at institutions affiliated with the Children's Oncology Group (COG). Renown Children’s Hospital, a member of COG since 2020, plays a vital role in this transformative journey. Just half a century ago, childhood cancer was a near-incurable challenge, but today, thanks to the groundbreaking research led by COG, the survival rate over a five-year period has soared to an inspiring 80%. “The standard of care continues to advance, particularly with cancer, as more research is conducted and additional treatment options become available,” said Kristen Gurnea, Manager of Clinical Research at Renown Health. “Our community can contribute to these advancements through COG for the benefit of both individual patients and the entire population joined together in the fight against pediatric cancer. We are proud to contribute to that mission.” As a member of the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood cancer research, Renown recognizes the joint efforts from researchers and patients alike and is proud to aid in reaching this goal in partnership with COG and our very own northern Nevada community.

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There are nearly 1 million adults living with MS in the United States alone. For comparison, that is roughly the entire population of the Reno/Sparks and Las Vegas areas combined. MS is a neurological autoimmune condition which means that the immune system of patients with MS attacks the body’s myelin, a protective substance that covers your nerves. When this happens, the unprotected nerves can be damaged. Patients with MS may experience many different symptoms ranging from mild to severe, such as mobility and vision problems, fatigue and difficulty thinking. MS is usually diagnosed between the ages of 20-50, but late onset MS can occur in patients over 50 years old. While there is no cure for MS, there are effective treatments that can help reduce the burden of patients’ symptoms and create a positive quality of life. At Renown Health, we have joined the fight against MS through a partnership between advanced neurology programs and providers and our research office. We are proud to offer newly diagnosed MS patients the opportunity to choose between standard care treatment options or participating in an open label clinical trial, the AGNOS study. This study is assessing the impact of a new medication, ofatumumab, as the first disease modifying therapy participants receive for managing relapsing remitting MS, the most common form of MS.

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Vanessa Slots, MD, of Renown Medical Group – Pediatrics, explains why getting a flu shot each season can save lives—especially true for the very young and elderly. Why Kids Need Flu Shots The flu is not a passing cold. It is a serious illness that takes lives every year. And this year, flu activity is increasing late in the season.  And it happens like clockwork — the onset of an influenza epidemic as fall transitions into winter, and lasts into the spring months. This acute respiratory illness is caused by influenza A or B viruses with yearly outbreaks occurring worldwide. No one is immune, and everyone is susceptible to the flu. Flu Signs and Symptoms: Abrupt onset of fever Headache Body aches and fatigue along with respiratory-tract symptoms including cough Sore throat and an irritated nose Who’s at Risk? Once again: Everyone is susceptible, but children and the elderly are at greater risk of complication from influenza, specifically toddlers less than 2 years. At this age, immunities are underdeveloped. Seniors over 65 are also at increased risk because their immune systems have weakened with age. The severity of a child’s symptoms depend on age and prior exposure to the virus. And with young children, flu is more problematic, since they cannot verbalize certain symptoms like body aches and headaches. As a result, children often experience higher fevers, which can lead to seizures or convulsions. Coupled with gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and poor appetite, children are at risk of dehydration and other complications from the virus that can require hospitalization. In fact, an average of 20,000 children are hospitalized from flu each year. Pre-Existing Health Issues Health conditions, including but not limited to asthma, cystic fibrosis, heart conditions, cerebral palsy, epilepsy or diabetes, can intensify flu symptoms. Still, a substantial number of children with none of these risk factors experience severe complications from the flu. How to Protect Your Child from the Flu The best way to guard against influenza is with a flu shot. Children and adults should get the flu vaccine before flu season kicks in — usually by the end of October. Shots are provided as long as flu viruses are circulating and the vaccine is in supply.

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What is Physiatry? Physiatry (fuh·zee·a·tree) encompasses the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of all disabilities related to the brain, nerves, bones and muscles.  The goal is to maximize physical functioning, significantly decrease or eliminate pain, foster independence and improve the quality of life for those with a disability, chronic pain and physical impairments.

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At the Renown Health Institute for Cancer, patients receive innovative, personalized treatment to fight cancer while our experienced team provides the support and technology to maintain a high quality of life. Our clinical expertise and advanced treatment options allow us to blend evidence-based care with cutting-edge research to improve cancer outcomes.

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Renown's William N. Pennington Cancer Institute offers comprehensive medical oncology services designed to provide compassionate care and personalized treatment for individuals battling cancer. We understand that a cancer diagnosis can be a challenging and life-changing experience. That's why our team of board-certified medical oncologists, nurses, and support staff provide you with the highest level of care and support throughout your cancer journey.  Our approach to medical oncology is patient-centered and multidisciplinary. We believe in treating the whole person, not just the disease, and work closely with other specialists, including surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care providers, to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.  Services Offered  Diagnosis and Treatment: Comprehensive Evaluation: Our team conducts thorough evaluations, including diagnostic imaging and laboratory tests, to accurately diagnose your condition and determine the most appropriate treatment plan.  Chemotherapy: We offer a wide range of chemotherapy options, including traditional intravenous infusions, oral medications, and targeted therapies, tailored to target your specific type of cancer.  Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy harnesses the power of the immune system to fight cancer and has shown promising results in treating various types of cancer. Our oncologists are experienced in administering and monitoring immunotherapy treatments.  Clinical Trials: As a leading cancer research institute, we offer access to cutting-edge clinical trials exploring new treatment approaches and investigational therapies.

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Renown Children’s Hospital proudly works with Reno Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists* to provide clinical and surgical care for the children of northern Nevada. We recognize the profound impact that conditions like hearing disorders and breathing difficulties can have on a child’s quality of life. That’s why we remain steadfast in our dedication to providing personalized, family-centered care that not only addresses the immediate medical needs of our young patients but also empowers them to thrive and reach their full potential. This partnership enables us to address a wide spectrum of pediatric conditions affecting the ear, nose and throat regions. From common ailments like ear and sinus infections to more complex challenges such as congenital malformations, the specialized team delivers compassionate care and innovative treatments, ensuring the best possible outcomes for every child entrusted to our care. * Reno Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists is not a member of Renown Medical Group

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Getting a shot can be scary for kids and anxiety-inducing for parents and caregivers. With flu shot season well underway and children's COVID-19 vaccine clinics in full swing, we wanted to share ways to reduce the stress for you and your child. Plan Ahead and Be Honest A few days before the scheduled appointment, casually mention to your child that you’re both going to the doctor’s office (or vaccine clinic, or pharmacy) soon for their vaccine. Explain to them that this will help protect them and will only take a second. Being honest is important, telling your child that it will hurt for a moment. If possible, try and schedule the vaccine at a kid-specific vaccine clinic, your pediatrician's office or a school-based site. Remember that words are powerful. Take notice if you are using a word that might make them more upset, such as prick, jab, needle or shot. You can interchange words such as vaccine, immunization or injection. Bring Toys Don’t be afraid to let your child bring one of their favorite toys or stuffed animals to the appointment. This can make them feel more comfortable and provide distraction. Ask for Pain Reliever/Numbing Agent If you know from past experience (or suspect) that your child has a needle phobia, talk to the vaccination location ahead of time and ask if they can use a pain reliever or numbing agent before administering the vaccine. Distract. Distract. Distract. Sing a song, tell them a joke, make a funny face. If you can pull your child’s attention away from the needle and make them laugh, they won’t focus all their energy on worrying about the shot. Lead By Example If you haven't gotten your flu shot, COVID shot or COVID-19 booster yet, ask the facility ahead of time if you can also get a shot before your child. Show them that the shot is no big deal and that they will have no problem getting it themselves. Celebrate Don’t be afraid to celebrate this victory with your child once it is over – bring them to the park, go out for an ice cream cone, let them pick what’s for dinner. This reward will show that you’re proud of them for being brave and may also make the next time your child is due for a shot easier.

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Renown Health's Institute for Neurosciences has expert physicians who provide compassionate diagnosis and care for chronic headaches & migraines and elevate the standard of care through clinical research and trials. Our physicians provide a pain-management plan tailored to your symptoms and provide follow-up pain management. If you don't have a primary care physician, we will provide one to help you along the way. To learn more about the Headache Program and Migraine Treatment at Renown Health, please call: 775-982-2970

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