DeCeMber 2011 S 4 M 5 T 6 W 7 T 1 8 F 2 S 3 S 1 8 M 2

9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 May 2012 S 6 M 7 T 1 8 W 2 T 3 F 4 S 5

9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 OCTOber 2012 S 7 M 1 8 T 2 W 3 T 4 F 5 S 6

9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Featuring the 20102011 ELMC Comprehensive Cancer Center Annual Report

Comprehensive Cancer CareSimplified.

JaNuary 2012 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 5 6 7 S February 2012 M T W T F 1 8 2 3 MarCH 2012 S 4 4 5 6 7 S M T W T 1 8 F 2 S 3 S 1 8 M 2 april 2012 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 9 10 11 9 10 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 JuNe 2012 S 3 M 4 T 5 W 6 T 7 F 1 8 S 2 9 S 1 8 M 2 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 July 2012 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 5 6 7 S M 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 auGuST 2012 T W 1 8 T 2 F 3 S 4 2 3 4 5 6 7 S 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 SepTeMber 2012 M T W T F S 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 NOVeMber 2012 S 4 M 5 T 6 W 7 T 1 8 F 2 S 3

9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

2012
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 DeCeMber 2012 S 2 9 M 3 T 4 W 5 T 6 F 7 S 1 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

S 6

M 7

JaNuary 2013 T W T F 1 8 2 3 4

S 5

9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Dear Patients, Friends, and Colleagues:

in October 2011, we celebrated the opening of the exempla Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran Medical Center an outstanding achievement because we can continue providing our patients with exceptional care while now offering a setting specifically designed to increase their convenience and address their needs. This space reflects the kind of care we believe in: comprehensive, multi-disciplinary care, given by a team of medical experts devoted to working for and with our patients. but, this facility is only the latest milestone in a series of landmark events for our Cancer Team. The dedicated staff is steadfast in their delivery of superior care to all our patients. This facility simply supplements their compassionate approach with the convenience of our pharmacy services located in the basement and the increased flexibility in scheduling time at our infusion Center with capacity growing from 12 to 30 treatment areas. Our patients can use our services with confidence knowing that the exempla Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran is accredited by the american College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer program. in addition, the exempla breast Care Center at lutheran is accredited by the National accreditation program for breast Centers. personally, i hold the Cancer Team here at lutheran in the highest regard as their dedication to quality, compassionate care transcends the simple words i have to offer. i look forward to another year of fostering healing and health for the communities we serve. Sincerely,

Cancer Registry
To stop cancer, we need to understand which treatments work best for each type of cancer. The Colorado Central Cancer Registry and the National Cancer Database are very important tools that the Exempla Lutheran Cancer Registry uses to track patient outcomes, and to ensure were choosing your best course of treatment. That means the cancer care you receive at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran is based on literally thousands of cancer cases from across the country. These anonymous databases allow us and other caregivers to observe treatment methods and track survival rates, without compromising patient privacy. While we share information about your health, we never share information about you. your identity and personal information remains confidential, and all Hipaa and state privacy laws are obeyed in the process. accredited by the american College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer for more than 25 years, the Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran is classified as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Center. Our accreditation is partially based on our Cancer registry. established 42 years ago, the registry collects data, conducts lifetime follow-up, and disseminates cancer information. at the exempla Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran, you can be assured that your care is founded on the latest research available. For more information, call the Cancer registry at 303-425-2291.

Tumor Board and Patient Conferences

if two heads are better than one, imagine the power of an entire team of top cancer doctors and nurses brainstorming ways to better treat your illness. Thats what happens every week when physicians and health professionals from the Comprehensive Cancer Center at lutheran meet at the Tumor Board Conferences. incorporated into the general Tumor board is a Lung and GI conference. These weekly meetings allow our team to present and learn about individual anonymous cancer cases, current treatments, clinical trial availability, patient outcomes, case management strategies and other topics. Health professionals go beyond the illness to take into account the whole patient in ensuring the most appropriate treatment plan is undertaken. in 2010, 147 patient cases from exempla lutheran Medical Center were presented and reviewed at Tumor board Conferences. We will continue this collaboration to provide you the highest quality care possible while protecting your privacy. The weekly Breast Cancer Conference is where all patients who have had a breast cancer diagnosis or breast cancer surgery at exempla lutheran Medical Center during the previous week are presented for discussion of current treatments, clinical trial availability, patient outcomes, and case management. in 2010, 540 breast cancer patients were presented, with 220 of those cases presented at least two times. We know the best ideas are easier to discover when you share information. Our participation in these conferences ensures you access to the best in consultative services and a customized treatment plan most effective for each individual. Breast Conference hospital learning Center every Thursday at 7:00 a.m. To schedule a case, call the breast Conference Coordinator at 303-425-2541. Tumor Board hospital learning Center on the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month at 7:00 a.m.

Grant Wicklund President and CEO Exempla Lutheran Medical Center

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

exempla lutheran Medical Centers radiation Oncology department provides care for gynecological malignancies with external beam radiotherapy and internal radiotherapy; also known as brachytherapy or high dose radiation (HDr). HDr is an important part of the treatment course for cervical and endometrial cancer. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and has improved the efficiency of care over the years. brachytherapy can be used to treat inoperable tumors or in conjunction with external beam radiation, and with or without chemotherapy. The treatment course is dependent on the patients specific staging. Women should begin having a pap smear 3 years after becoming sexually active. Starting at age 21, regardless of sexual activity, a woman should have a pap smear and pelvic exam every year. after the age of 30, women who have had three normal pap exams may get screened every two to three years. The human papilloma virus (HpV) test should be done in conjunction with a pap smear.

January
2012
Sunday Monday

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1
New years Day

2 9 16
Martin luther King, Jr. Day

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26
S

6 13 20 27
DeCeMber 2011 M 5 T 6 W 7 T 1 4 8 F 2 S 3 S 9 10

7 14 21 28
February 2012 M 6 T 7 W 1 5 8 T 2 F 3 S 4 9 10 11

8 15 22 29

23 30

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 26 27 28 29

National Cancer Prevention Month

at exempla lutheran Medical Center more than 30% of all of our cancers are diagnosed at an early stage. early discovery and treatment of cancer before it has spread, improves outcomes. Some of the recommended cancer screenings include: breast, cervical, colorectal, skin, oral, prostate and testicular. Talk to your primary care physician about which screenings are best for you and when you should be tested based on your history and other risk factors. if you do not have a physician, call us at 303-425-8391 and we will help you find one.

Clinical Trials
active research has proven vital in the fight against cancer. as a participant in the Colorado Cancer research program, we offer direct access to cutting-edge research, including participation in clinical trials. Clinical trials have the potential to help participants, propel advancements in treatment, lead to the discovery of more effective medicines and improve standards of care. at exempla lutheran, we currently have over 60 cancer treatment trials. in 2010, 32 patients were enrolled in clinical trials and 70 additional patients were screened. in addition, we are screening all breast cancer patients and lung cancer patients for available trials. To learn more, contact our clinical trials nurse at 303-403-3727. Remember, todays cancer treatments were yesterdays clinical trials.

Genetic Counseling
your family cancer history is an important tool in cancer prevention. Knowledge of your family history allows us to tailor recommendations for cancer screenings according to your specific needs and provides you with personalized care. additionally, a family history allows us to identify potential hereditary cancers. Genetic testing can provide important information to families and is used to identify hereditary cancers. Knowing that the cancer in your family is hereditary allows us to be proactive in the fight against cancer and customize a cancer surveillance or prevention plan to reduce the chance of developing cancer. To learn more, contact our genetic counselor at 303-425-8191.

February
2012
Sunday Monday

National Cancer Prevention Month

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 5 12 19 26 6 13 20
presidents Day

2
Groundhog Day

3 10 17 24
JaNuary 2012 S 1 8 M 2 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 S 9 10 11 12 13 14

4 11 18 25
MarCH 2012 M 5 T 6 W 7 T 1 4 8 F 2 S 3 9 10

7 14
Valentines Day

8 15 22
ash Wednesday

9 16 23

21 28

27

29

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Colorectal cancer screening is essential for early detection. it is recommended that all patients age 50 or older should have one of the following: n Colonoscopy every 10 years (preferred) n Double-contrast barium enema every five years n Computed Tomographic Colonography every five years n Fecal Occult blood Test (FObT) or FiT test annually or stool DNa test with flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years For persons with increased risk factors, screening should be done earlier or more often depending on the risk. you should check with your primary care provider for those guidelines.

GI Disease Site Team

at lutheran, a dedicated multi-disciplinary team works with patients and families to create a comforting and healing environment which fosters their education, diagnosis, and disease treatment. Nurse navigators, physicians and support staff all play a critical role in the patients progression from diagnosis through survivorship with colorectal cancer. To contact the Gi Nurse Navigator, call 303-403-3611. Our program offers the latest in technology available in the treatment of Gi cancer. We have endoscopic ultrasonography (euS), which is a state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tool. euS is used in the first step for evaluation before treatment of digestive system cancers, tumors and disorders involving pancreas, bile duct, gallbladder, esophagus, stomach, duodenum, colon or rectum. in 2010, the Gi cases reviewed by elMC found the colon as the number one site for cancer. Colon followed by pancreas, rectum, stomach and esophagus being the top five Gi sites.

Risks Include:
african-american History of inflammatory bowel disease, adenomas or colorectal cancer n Strong family history or genetic disposition
n n

Fast Fact
One out of every 20 men and women will be diagnosed with cancer of the colon and rectum during their lifetime.

March
2012
S 5 M 6 T 7

National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Tuesday
S 7

Sunday
February 2012 W 1 8 T 2 F 3 S 4 S 1 8

Monday
april 2012 M 2 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10 11

9 10 11 12 13 14

1 6
lymphedema D Day

2 9 16 23 30
National Doctors Day

3 10 17
St. patricks Day

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 26 27 28 29 29 30

4
patient Safety awareness Week

5 12 19 26

7 14 21 28

8 15 22 29

11
Daylight Savings Time begins

13 20
First Day of Spring

18 25

24 31

27

National Cancer Control Month

Cancer control efforts encourage healthy lifestyles, promote cancer screenings, increase access to quality cancer care, and improve the quality of life for cancer survivors. Talk with your doctor about cancer screenings that are appropriate for you. listed below are some strategies you might want to consider for improving your health.

Increase Your Activity:

physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of colon, breast, and other cancers. increasing your physical activity may help reduce your risk of developing these cancers. Keep your weight under control.

Immunizations
Get immunized. Some cancers associated with viral infections, such as hepatitis b, can be prevented.

Tobacco Cessation
research has found a strong link between tobacco use and many cancers. you can quit tobacco and greatly reduce your risk of developing cancer and other serious diseases.

Screening
Get screened. Many tests are available to men and women that can detect cancer in its early, curable stage. april is also oncology nurses month. We will acknowledge our wonderful nurses who deliver excellent care for our oncology patients and families throughout their journey with cancer.

Bridges Integrative Health & Wellness Services

Several studies have shown that 83% of cancer patients have used at least one complementary or alternative therapy during their cancer treatment. bridges services focuses on the patient as a whole person by bridging conventional medical treatments with a variety of rich healing traditions to enhance your health and well-being.

Oral Health Check: under a bright light use a mirror to check your gums, insides of your lips as well as under your tongue, and roof of your mouth. look for any dark areas or light areas. Check around your neck and chin for any lumps or sore areas. See a dentist on a routine schedule and report any abnormal findings to your dentist or physician.

Improve Your Diet

eating a healthy diet may reduce your risk of developing cancer and other serious illnesses. a healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat milk products, lean meats, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts and is also low in salt and added sugars.

Services include:
n n

acupuncture Chiropractic n Counseling n Healing touch n Holistic surgery path n integrative Health Nurse Consultation n Massage n Nutrition Consultation n prescriptive exercise n Tai Chi, yoga, and Mindfulness-based Stress reduction To schedule an appointment call 303-425-2262.

April
2012
Sunday Monday

Cancer Control Month Oncology Nurses Month

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

palm Sunday

Testicular Cancer awareness Week

2 9
Natl Oral, Head and Neck Cancer awareness Week

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5
Cancer Fatigue awareness Day

6
Good Friday

7 14 21 28
May 2012 F 2 S 3 6 7 S M T 1 8 W 2 T 3 F 4 S 5 T 1 8 7 9 10 9 10 11 12

National young adult Cancer awareness Week april Fools Day

8
easter patient Safety awareness Week

12 19 26
Oncology Nurses Day S 4

13 20 27
MarCH 2012 M 5 T 6 W

15 22
earth Day

16 23 30

29

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 27 28 29 30 31

Skin Cancer Fast Facts

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, with over one million people diagnosed each year! n Skin cancer and melanoma account for about 50% of all types of cancers diagnosed combined. n Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. n More than 90% of skin cancer is caused by excessive exposure to the sun. n Melanoma Monday is the first Monday of May and the kick-off of May Melanoma/ Skin Cancer Month. This is also known as National Skin Self-examination Day. people are encouraged to examine their skin for skin cancer. early detection is the key. The abCD, es of checking for melanoma include:
n

each month, examine your skin to become familiar with the location, size, and color of moles, freckles, and other marks. any abnormal areas should be reported to your physician. ask your physician to do a skin check as part of your annual physical. in the Skin Health population Study, researchers found that those using tanning beds often were three times more likely to develop melanoma than a person who never tanned indoors. each year elMC holds a free skin cancer screening in the spring. Check with answer line at 303-689-4595 for a date for this annual event.

A: Asymmetry The mole is not completely even in appearance. B: Border The margins should be even and smooth, without irregular or projecting edges. C: Circumference The mole should be nice and round, without jagged or sharp edges D: Diameter The size of a mole should not be more than 6mm measured across the mole. This is the standard size of a pencil eraser. E: Evolving (changes) any changes over time in size, shape, symptoms (itching, tenderness), surface (bleeding, scaling, inflammation), and shades of color.

May
2012
Sunday Monday

Skin Cancer/Melanoma Awareness Month

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1
brain Tumor action Week

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31
World No Tobacco Day
S 1 8

4 11 18
blood Cancer advocacy Days

5 12 19
blood Cancer advocacy Days

6
National Nurses Week

7
Melanoma Monday

8 15 22 29

13
Mothers Day

14 21 28
Memorial Day

20 27

25
april 2012 M 2 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 S 9 10 11 12 13 14

26
JuNe 2012 M 4 T 5 W 6 T 7 F 1 3 8 S 2 9

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Leaves of Hope and National Cancer Survivors Day Were A Great Success Last Year
This annual event met its goal with over 500 runners and walkers, a 31% increase in participation from 2010. race participants, 225 registered cancer survivors, their families and over 100 volunteers enjoyed a day of fun, fitness, remembrance and celebration. Our deepest appreciation goes out to our corporate sponsors and the exempla lutheran Medical Center Foundation board of Directors. by participating, donating or volunteering their time for leaves of Hope and National Cancer Survivors Day, they have made a lasting impact on our patients and the community. Watch for news about our leaves of Hope this year and our National Cancer Survivors Day Celebration, a day to celebrate the gift of life with families, friends, and oncology staff, on Sunday, June 3. We hope you can join us for this great day! for breast cancer survivors. The Newly Diagnosed Group is for patients in their first two years of diagnosis and treatment. The ongoing STarS group supports those who are more than two years out from a diagnosis. n Look GoodFeel Better is a fun, interactive session for women undergoing cancer treatment. Held in conjunction with the american Cancer Society, this workshop includes a 12-step makeup guide, skin and nail care, and demonstrations on how to use wigs, scarves, and accessories to look your best while traveling your path to health. This class is held monthly and appointments are required. Call for the 2012 schedule and reserve your place. n Lymphedema Education Class meets monthly for education and symptom management. n Grief Support offers a safe place for those who experience the loss of a loved one to share feelings and fears including a special program for grieving children. n Survivorship program: We believe in focusing on the patient in all phases of their journey from early diagnosis to treatment to survivorship throughout life. n Unleash Your Strength Breast Cancer Survivorship program will help women find a new balance and outlook through discovery of personal self. by utilizing fresh energy techniques with health and wellness, stress management and spirituality, an overall improved health status is achieved. Monthly meetings are held. a listing of all exempla lutheran support groups, as well as contact information and meeting times, is available on our website at www.exempla.org (search for Cancer Support Groups).

Leaves of Hope 2011

Support Groups
We offer many support groups to educate and help you cope with diagnosis, illness, treatment and emotional issues so you can find hope and continue the healing process. n General Cancer Support Group is held for patients with any type of cancer as well as their families and friends. n Circle of Support brings together caregivers for the chronically or seriously ill. n Survivors Knitting Circle is a fun support group for anyone affected by cancer. all skill levels welcome. n STaRS (Sharing, Touching, and reaching Survivors of breast Cancer) is a support group

June
2012
S 6 M 7 T 1 8

Sunday
May 2012 W 2 T 3 F 4 S 5 S 1 8

Monday
July 2012 M 2 T 3 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10 11 12

9 10 11 12 13 14

1 5 12 19 26 6 13 20
First Day of Summer

2 9 16 23 30

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31

National Cancer Survivors Day leaves of Hope

4 11 18 25

7 14
Flag Day

8 15 22 29

10
Sarcoma awareness Week

17
Fathers Day

21 28

24

27

Cochran Award
lutherans Comprehensive Neuroscience program and the radiation Oncology department are teaming up to help with the treatment of brain malignancies, using brainlab Stereotactic radiosurgery (SrS) equipment. SrS is a type of radiation therapy that treats various kinds of brain tumors and brain abnormalities. This is a non-invasive procedure. No incisions are necessary. Stereotactic radiosurgery works by delivering several beams of radiation that are precisely targeted to a specific area of the brain. The SrS radiation dose is a concentrated, increased amount. The treatment course consists of one to five treatments. The patient is immobilized using a mask to ensure exact positioning. each mask is customized to the patient prior to treatment. This customized mask is used for each treatment to verify accurate reproducibility during each session.

The Cochran award is the living legacy of John and lois Cochran, both of whom passed away on the exempla lutheran Medical Center oncology unit. in recognition of the excellent care their parents received at exempla lutheran Medical Center, the Cochran family provides an annual educational scholarship to an exempla lutheran Medical Center oncology team member, nominated by their peers for providing exemplary care. This year marked the 22nd year the Cochran family has been giving back to lutheran oncology team members. as a special thank you to the Cochran family for their generosity, exempla lutheran Medical Center placed gazing globes in the infusion Care Center Garden, a private outdoor patio for patients to enjoy with their families while receiving treatment. Congratulations to Sheila Foster, rN, for receiving the 2011 Cochran award.

July
2012
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4
independence Day

5 12 19 26
S 3

6 13 20 27
JuNe 2012 M 4 T 5 W 6 T 7 F 1 8 S 2 9 5 S

7 14 21 28
auGuST 2012 M 6 T 7 W 1 8 T 2 F 3 S 4 9 10 11

11 18 25

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31

Palliative Care
Whether a patient has a suspected lifespan of 10 days or 10 years, palliative Care can be involved in your care. palliative Care supports people in the hospital and home when they have a life-limiting illness that requires intensive treatment for the different aspects of pain. Many of our patients in the palliative Care Service are seeking active curative measures for their diseases. Palliative Care Services include: n Help with decision-making related to goals-ofcare and treatment options n emotional, spiritual, social and psychological support n pain and symptom management n rN, MD and social work support at home or in the patients care facility For more information, call 303-403-7281.

Spiritual Care
Spiritual Care Services at elMC offers cancer patients and their families a compassionate presence by helping them to discover the inner and outer resources necessary to deal with the challenges they are facing. as chaplains, we encourage patients to connect with what is most important and meaningful to them as a way to access hope, courage, and strength in times of fear and loss. We provide patients with a compassionate environment in which they can explore potential sources of spiritual sustenance and support. We sit with them as they ask the deeper questions and in some cases, face their anxieties around death and leaving their loved ones behind. Similarly, we work with the families who are searching for ways to come to terms with anticipatory grief over the loss of a beloved family member. Our exempla Healthcare chaplains and caregivers provide a variety of resources for patients, families and staff. if a chaplain visit or contact would be helpful, please call the Spiritual Care Services Office at 303-425-2393. The Spiritual Care staff is available 24/7 and can also be reached on the chaplain pager at 303-897-4257 if there is an emergent need.

August
2012
S 1 8 M 2 T 3

Sunday
July 2012 W 4 T 5 F 6 S 7 2 S

Monday
SepTeMber 2012 M 3 T 4 W 5 T 6 F 7 S 1 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10 11 12 13 14

1 7 14 21 28 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

15 16 17 18 19 20 21 29 30 31

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month

as the month of September brings leukemia and lymphoma into focus, its time to increase public understanding of these diseases, including their prevalence, approaches to screening and prevention, treatment options, and resources that offer updated leukemia and lymphoma information throughout the year. Nurse navigators play a critical role in the coordination of your care. Throughout screening, diagnosis and treatment, our nurse navigators are available to assist and answer any questions you or your family may have about your care. They can also provide assistance with any physical and emotional needs that may arise. exempla lutheran Medical Center offers four nurse navigators specific to breast health. These specially-trained nurse navigators can assist you or your family with any breast health needs regardless of diagnosis type. Most common questions asked of our breast-health nurse navigators: n When and where is my next appointment? n Where do i get more information about my diagnosis? n How long will it take for my results? n What will be the process if i do have cancer? To contact a nurse navigator call 303-403-3001. leukemia and lymphoma are both hematologic malignancies, meaning that they involve the blood or bone marrow. The american Cancer Society (aCS) estimates that there will be 44,790 new cases of leukemia and 21,870 deaths in 2009. For lymphoma, the aCS estimates that 74,490 new cases and 20,790 deaths will occur in the united States in 2009. Staying informed with the latest news on prevention, screening, and treatment is an important step in reducing your risk of developing leukemia or lymphoma or achieving the best possible outcome from treatment. access to current, in-depth treatment information can help you choose optimal care.

annually, elMC offers a free mens screening including many opportunities for men to obtain a prostate cancer screening with a pSa, cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, smoking cessation information, nutrition, fitness evaluation, sleep apnea info with pulse oximetery, and heel scan. in 2011, elMC screened 90 patients.

Get the Facts. Recognize the Signs. Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is one of the most deadly cancers for women. each year, approximately 21,880 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Many women dont seek help until the disease has begun to spread. recent research suggests that together the four symptoms of: bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly and urinary urgency or frequency may be associated with ovarian cancer. early detection is key to a positive outcome. Check with your physician if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Prostate Cancer
prostate cancer is the most common cancer in american males. early stage prostate cancer often has no warning signs. its important for men 45 and older to talk to their physician about the pros and cons of screening. if you are younger than 45 and are Hispanic, african american, or have a family history, talk to your physician about when to be tested. The test usually involves a digital rectal exam in addition to a pSa blood test.

September
2012
S 5 M 6 T 7

National Leukemia and Lymphoma Awareness Month n Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
n

Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month n Prostate Cancer Awareness Month n Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
n

Sunday
auGuST 2012 W 1 8 T 2 F 3 S 4 7 S

Monday
OCTOber 2012 M 1 8 T 2 W 3 T 4 F 5 S 6

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10 11

9 10 11 12 13

1 4 11 18 25 5 12 19 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 21 28 8 15 22
First Day of autumn

12 13 14 15 16 17 18 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 26 27 28 29 30 31 28 29 30 31

2 9 16 23 30

3
labor Day

10 17 24

29

The exempla breast Care Center at lutheran Medical Center was the first breast center in Colorado to be accredited with the National accreditation program for breast Centers (NapbC). Our care team includes breast fellowship trained radiologists and experienced surgeons. The exempla breast Care Center has breast Health Nurse Navigators to assist patients and their families with any breast health needs. These navigators are specially trained nurses that are available at any time for any patient with breast health requests regarding imaging, health, or diagnosis. a breast Disease Site Team meets quarterly to discuss breast imaging and care, events to better serve the community, program improvement, and best practices for breast health. The multidisciplinary team includes breast surgeons, radiation oncologist, medical oncologists, radiologist, pathologist, genetic counselor, and other support staff associated with the delivery of care specific to breast health. elMC holds a weekly breast conference where these experts develop and ensure the best care program for diagnosed patients. October is a good opportunity to remind women to have their annual screening mammogram. it is important that women do breast self-exams monthly as well. Breast cancer survivors from the Pink Hat Tea 2011.

Breast HealthTips
n

early detection is your most important weapon. perform monthly self-exams. yearly mammograms should begin at age 40. Clinical breast exams should be performed every three years for women 20-39 and every year for women 40 and older. if you are considered high risk for breast cancer, please talk with your physician about your screenings. it is also important for women and men to know their own breasts by doing routine breast exams and calling their physicians if they notice any changes.

October
2012
Sunday Monday

Breast Cancer Awareness Month Liver Cancer Awareness Month

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 7 14 21 28 8
Columbus Day Observed

2 9 16 23 30

3
National Mammography Day

4 11 18 25
S 2

5 12 19 26
SepTeMber 2012 M 3 T 4 W 5 T 6 F 7 S 1 8 S

6 13 20 27
NOVeMber 2012 M 5 T 6 W 7 T 1 4 8 F 2 S 3 9 10

10 17 24 31
Halloween

15 22 29

9 10 11 12 13 14 15 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 25 26 27 28 29 30 30

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Factors that increase your risk for lung cancer are smoking, exposure to second hand smoke, asbestos or radon. early diagnosis is the best! Screenings and annual physicals can increase your ability to survive an otherwise devastating disease. if you are at risk, elMC has the ability to screen with a low radiation dose chest CT scan. Through this diagnostic procedure, your primary care physician is notified of any abnormalities that could suggest lung cancer. elMC has all the required technologies and physicians in place to treat any lung abnormality, whether benign or malignant. Our goal is to detect lung cancer at a stage when it is most treatable. a nurse navigator is available to patients seeking guidance with their lung cancer treatment. To contact our nurse navigator, call 303-403-3611. in 2009 according to american Cancer Societys Cancer Facts and Figures, the united States had 219,449 diagnosed cases and 159,390 deaths. Colorado had 2,240 diagnosed and 1,679 deaths. at elMC, 10 percent of our cancer patients are diagnosed with lung cancer. prevention is better than early detection. if you use tobacco, try to cut back or stop completely. Have your home tested for radon; an odorless vapor emitted from some forms of rock and stone. National Cancer Survivors Day 2011

November
2012
S 7 M 1 8 T 2

Lung Cancer Awareness Month Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month n Family Caregivers Month n National Hospice Month
n n

National Marrow Awareness Month n Stomach Cancer Month n Carcinoid Cancer Month
n

Sunday
OCTOber 2012 W 3 T 4 F 5 S 6 2 9 S

Monday
DeCeMber 2012 M 3 T 4 W 5 T 6 F 7 S 1 8 10 11 12 13 14 15

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10 11 12 13

1 6
election Day

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 28 29 30 31

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

4
Daylight Savings Time ends

5 12 19 26

7 14 21 28

8 15 22
Thanksgiving Day

11
Veterans Day

13 20 27

18 25

29

Cancer Services Available For Your Use At ELMC Include:

Resource Center
The resource Center is sponsored by the american Cancer Society and exempla lutheran Medical Center. This center offers brochures, a book lending library, internet access, and volunteers to assist you, whether you or someone you care about has cancer. Our center has free wigs and other head coverings as well as hats and turbans. post mastectomy prostheses and bras for women who are uninsured or under-insured are also available. appointments are necessary. To reach the aCS patient navigator, call 303-403-3609. The New year is right around the corner, but it is never too early to get started on those resolutions and make some healthy lifestyle changes! head coverings, lymphemdema products, and inspirational items for those surviving, living with, going through treatment, or caring for individuals with cancer. Hopes Corner provides mastectomy prostheses, post mastectomy bras, and prosthetic fittings by appointment. Call 303-467-8925 to schedule an appointment. exempla lutheran Medical Center knows how hard it can be to be diagnosed with cancer. Our Comprehensive Cancer Center is a place to go for complete cancer care. We provide our patients and families with the best possible care we can, from diagnosis throughout survivorship. No one has to fight cancer alone; we are here for you!

Hopes Corner
Hopes Corner is a specialty store focused on gifts, cards, skin care items, clothing, jewelry,

Get Ready for 2013

remember to get your recommended screening and annual exams, and be proactive in your health: n exercise n Decrease stress n improve your diet n See your dentist once a year n Tobacco cessation

December
2012
S 4 M 5 T 6

Sunday
NOVeMber 2012 W 7 T 1 8 F 2 S 3 6 S

Monday
JaNuary 2013 M 7 T 1 8 W 2 T 3 F 4 S 5

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

9 10

9 10 11 12

1 4 11 18 5 12 19 26 6 13 20 27 7 14 21 28 8 15 22
First Day of Winter

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 25 26 27 28 29 30 27 28 29 30 31

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31
New years Day

25
Christmas Day

29

ELMC 2010 Primary Site Distribution

350 300 250
Cases
338

200 150 100 50

23 155 104 57 35 31 29 31 26

44

46 19

0 Oral Cavity

Digestive Respiratory Blood & Melanoma System System Bone Marrow

Breast

Female Genital

Male Genital

Urinary System

Brain & CNS

Endocrine

Lymphatic Unknown System Primary, Other

Patient rooms at the new Exempla Comprehensive Cancer Center at Lutheran.

First patient seen at the new Exempla Lutheran Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Quality of Care
100%
90.6%

Quality of care is reviewed and monitored to assure national treatment guidelines are followed. The charts below demonstrate that the elMC experience often exceeds the national and state experience.

ELMC Colon Cancer 2008

80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
81.7% 82.1% 82.6%

ELMC Rectum Cancer 2008

100% 80% 60% 40% 20%
100% 94.9% 91.2% 90.1%

Cancer Program (ELMC)

State (Colorado)

ACS Division (Great West)

National CoC Program Type (Comprehensive)

0%

Cancer Program (ELMC)

State (Colorado)

ACS Division (Great West)

National CoC Program Type (Comprehensive)

Measure: at least 12 regional lymph nodes are removed and pathologically examined for resected colon cancer.

Measure: radiation therapy is considered or administered within 6 months (180 days) of diagnosis for patients with clinically or pathological aJCC T4N0M0 or Stage iii receiving surgical resection for rectal cancer.

ELMC Colon Cancer 2008

100%
88.3% 87.6% 89.7%

80% 60% 40% 20% 0%

81.8%

Cancer Program (ELMC)

State (Colorado)

ACS Division (Great West)

National CoC Program Type (Comprehensive)

Measure: adjuvant chemotherapy is considered or administered within 4 months (120 days) of diagnosis for patients with aJCC Stage iii (lymph node positive) colon cancer Note: Chemotherapy is usually administrated in the outpatient setting, outside of the hospital which makes this information difficult to obtain.

Colorectal

review of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2003 show elMC survival rates are consistent with both Colorado and National rates. elMC Stage i cancers have a 90% survival rate at one year and 74% at five years. Stage iV cancers have a lower survival with a 52% at one year and 9.5% at five years. Colorado and National survival rates for Stage i and Stage iV disease show similar rates..

ELMC 5-Year Survival

100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%

Colorado 5-Year Survival

100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%

1 Year Stage 0

2 Year Stage I

3 Year Stage II

4 Year Stage III

5 Year Stage IV

1 Year Stage 0

2 Year Stage I

3 Year Stage II

4 Year Stage III

5 Year Stage IV

NCDB 5-Year Survival

100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0%

1 Year Stage 0

2 Year Stage I

3 Year Stage II

4 Year Stage III

5 Year Stage IV

Infusion Care 303-425-8264 Cancer Care Resource Coordinator 303-425-8391 Clinical Trials 303-403-3727

Genetic Counseling Hopes Corner Boutique Lymphedema Services

303-425-8191 303-467-8925 303-425-2314