We understand that a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming. The emotions that come with the word "cancer" range from disbelief to unwavering hope and we are here to support you through every step, and feeling, of the process. At Astera Cancer Care, we have built a team to support you from your first appointment forward. It all starts with a Patient Navigator, a Licensed Practical Nurse, who acts … [Read more...] about Astera Cancer Care Patient Navigators: An Advocate for Your Cancer Journey
What Is a Hematologist?
A hematologist is a type of doctor who specializes in studying, diagnosing, treating and preventing blood disorders and disorders of the lymphatic system (e.g., lymph nodes and vessels), including several types of cancer. Why am I being referred to a hematologist? If your primary care physician is referring you to a hematologist, it may be because you are at risk for a condition involving your red … [Read more...] about What Is a Hematologist?
Reducing the Financial Burden for Patients
Over the years, our team of four Financial Counselors have seen their department grow and their jobs evolve. Kimberly Paxson, Zoraida Seda, Jenna Riccitello and Natasha Scutro are more than precertification coordinators and financial counselors. They are financial advocates who handle financial needs for our patients, helping people offset the costs of their medical care. We spoke with Kim and … [Read more...] about Reducing the Financial Burden for Patients
Need-to-Know Signs of Colon Cancer in Men
More than 50,000 new cases of colon cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States. It typically begins in the large intestine as small, noncancerous clumps of cells or polyps. Over time (if left undiagnosed and untreated), these polyps can become cancerous. Though the exact cause of colon cancer is unknown, those with a family history of the disease or who smoke or drink heavily have a high … [Read more...] about Need-to-Know Signs of Colon Cancer in Men
Teaching Personalized Cancer Care to PharmD Students in Central Jersey
Eileen R. Peng, PharmD is a skilled doctor of pharmacy dedicated to integrated, personalized care. Through her work with PharmD students at Rutgers University, she is bringing tomorrow's oncology pharmacists into the forefront of individualized cancer care. Dr. Peng is an Adjunct Clinical Professor at the Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy-Rutgers University, leading the ambulatory care pharmacy … [Read more...] about Teaching Personalized Cancer Care to PharmD Students in Central Jersey
How Do Oncologists in New Jersey Use Targeted Therapy for Prostate Cancer?
The male prostate is a small, walnut-shaped gland that produces the fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer, affecting one in nine American men each year. Thankfully, more than 90 percent of prostate cancer cases are discovered in the early stages, when tumors most likely to respond to treatment. How do I know if I have … [Read more...] about How Do Oncologists in New Jersey Use Targeted Therapy for Prostate Cancer?
Bringing Community Involvement in Cancer Care to a Whole New Level
At Astera Cancer Care, we're dedicated to community-based cancer care. This means that we pursue the highest standards of care specifically in the service of the communities in which we practice medicine, live, shop and send our kids to school. In other words, we are not merely in the community but of it, and committed to it. As a large and leading medical practice providing top-quality care for … [Read more...] about Bringing Community Involvement in Cancer Care to a Whole New Level
Treating Breast Cancer Early: Five Myths About Early Detection
Treating Breast Cancer Early: Five Myths About Early Detection For many women, breast cancer does not come with early warning signs or symptoms. That's why regular mammograms and other health screens are crucial. Finding breast cancer early through preventive health screening gives you a better chance of successful treatment. Common symptoms of breast cancer Possible symptoms of breast cancer … [Read more...] about Treating Breast Cancer Early: Five Myths About Early Detection
Ten Ways Oncology Social Workers Improve Cancer Therapy
The role of the oncology social worker is to help patients, families and their caregivers deal with the reality of cancer. They are specially trained and skilled to assist with the psychological, social, emotional and spiritual needs of everyone involved. Ten ways oncology social workers improve cancer therapy Oncology social workers play an important role in cancer care. Here are ten things they … [Read more...] about Ten Ways Oncology Social Workers Improve Cancer Therapy
Mohs Surgery or Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer
Mohs Surgery or Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer If you've been diagnosed with basal cell and squamous cell skin cancer and are looking for the best treatment option, it's important to understand what's available. Mohs surgery and radiation are two common treatment options. What is Mohs Surgery? You've probably heard about Mohs surgery, but might not know exactly what it is. Mohs surgery, also … [Read more...] about Mohs Surgery or Radiation Therapy for Skin Cancer
