Conditions & Treatment

Dec 10, 2021

Cancer Clinical Trials: Debunking Common Misconceptions

Clinical trials, particularly those designed to fight cancer, are vital to the development of solutions when working to find better ways to treat this disease. Unfortunately, there are many common misconceptions around cancer trials that prevent patients from benefiting from therapies that can be life-saving.

By Marc Matrana, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Dec 7, 2021

How Does a Bone Marrow Transplant Work?

A bone marrow transplant is a treatment for certain types of cancer and blood disorders that replaces your bone marrow with healthy cells.

By Laura Finn

Women's Health

Nov 1, 2021

Fertility Preservation Options for Women

Prolonging the ability to have children is becoming an increasingly popular option for many people. Whatever the reason may be, there are fertility preservations options available.

By O'Neil "Jay'' Parenton III, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 14, 2021

A Rare Diagnosis and a Father's Legacy

Gerald Hymel battled 13 types of cancer. Being diagnosed with a rare condition of Lynch syndrome may help prevent his daughters from having to do the same.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 8, 2021

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer symptoms can be tricky to catch, as they’re often associated with other health conditions. It is curable if caught early.

By Jennifer Paruch, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 6, 2021

Prostate Cancer: Can Lowering Cholesterol Slow the Spread?

A fascinating new study shows the positive effect that lowering cholesterol might have on slowing the progression of prostate cancer.

By Li Li, MD, PhD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 4, 2021

Understanding Gynecological Cancer Risk and Prevention

Did you know that almost half of gynecologic cancers could be prevented?

By Chad A. Hamilton, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 29, 2021

Cancer of the Pancreas: What to Know

Pancreatic cancer is not usually detected at an early stage, making management difficult.

By Ryan Griffin, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 28, 2021

Breast Cancer Screenings During COVID-19

Early detection is key when dealing with breast cancer, but what does that look like during the COVID-19 pandemic?

By Lindsey Fauveau, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jul 20, 2021

Cancerous Moles on Skin

Melanoma is made up of cells called melanocytes (the same cells that make-up benign moles). When these cells become abnormal and cancerous, they are referred to as melanoma.

By Nicholas Frank, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jun 9, 2021

Teen and Young Adult Cancer Patients Have Different Needs

Learn about the special needs of teens and young adults being treated for cancer and the innovative programs being developed to help address their concerns.

By Robert Vasquez, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jun 9, 2021

Prostate Cancer: A New Treatment Option

Focal One Robotic HIFU gives urologists the ability to use focal therapy to remove only the diseased portion of the prostate. This is similar to performing a lumpectomy to remove only the diseased tissue of the breast in a patient with breast cancer.

By Stephen Bardot, MD

Prevention & Wellness

May 24, 2021

Young Mother Triumphs Over Triple Negative Breast Cancer

At 29 years old, Rachel was a dietitian, a wife and a mom to a 15-month-old little boy. She was also diagnosed with breast cancer.

Conditions & Treatment

May 20, 2021

Colon Cancer Preventive Screenings Better Than Treatment

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and it’s an important time to raise awareness about this preventable disease.

By Lingling Du, MD

Conditions & Treatment

May 20, 2021

Are Younger People Getting Colorectal Cancers?

Over the past couple of years, there has been a rise in colorectal cancer in people younger than 40.

By William Forrest Johnston, MD

Conditions & Treatment

May 19, 2021

Why Are Black People at Greater Risk of Colon Cancer?

The recent tragic news of the passing of actor Chadwick Boseman has left many people asking questions about colon cancer. “How could he have had colon cancer at such a young age?” “Wasn’t he in great physical shape?”

By Jonathan Mizrahi, MD

Conditions & Treatment

May 19, 2021

Initial Colon Cancer Screening Age Lowered to 45

This update is a welcome one to oncologists like me who have witnessed a continued rise in the rates of colorectal cancers being diagnosed in young patients. Over 10% of all colon cancers are diagnosed in patients under the age of 50.

By Jonathan Mizrahi, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Apr 29, 2021

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon).

By Kevin Cowley, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 18, 2021

Does a Polyp Mean Colon Cancer?

Clarifying some of the most common myths about colorectal cancer, including whether the presence of a polyp in your colon means you definitely have colon cancer.

By Matthew Giglia, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 17, 2021

What is the Best Way to Prepare for a Colonoscopy?

Before a colonoscopy, purchase adult wet wipes and barrier ointment to prevent irritation and stock up on plenty of clear liquids.

By Charles Whitlow, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 1, 2021

What Is Multiple Myeloma?

Multiple myeloma is cancer of white blood cells called plasma cells. There is no clear cause of myeloma but treatment options are available.

By Daniel Ezekwudo

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 26, 2021

Strategies for Caregivers of Patients with Cancer

Small steps to decrease stress and increase positivity when caring for a loved one with cancer.

By Nicholas Tworek, PsyD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 18, 2020

Should You Have a Yearly Lung Cancer Screening?

It’s important to keep your lungs healthy by avoiding pollutants and cigarettes. These toxins increase your chances of developing lung cancer.

By Susan Gunn, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 13, 2020

3 Things To Know About Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States. Learn the facts about this medical condition.

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Health Trends

Nov 10, 2020

How Mandala Art Can Help Cancer Patients

Mandala art, coloring and origami creation can play a role in the care of patients going through cancer treatment.

By Aruna Moudgil

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 21, 2020

Clinical Trials Offer New Hope to Cancer Patients

Most treatments in use today are the result of past clinical trials.

By Paul Zhang, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 20, 2020

5 Cancer Screenings All Women Should Know About

Although you may not be experiencing any symptoms, it is still important to get screened regularly for certain forms of cancer.

By John T Cole, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 20, 2020

Top 4 Cancer Screenings for Men

Routine screenings for colorectal, lung, skin and prostate cancer give doctors the opportunity to catch cancer early when cancer is easier to treat.

By John T Cole, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 15, 2020

Obesity and Cancer Risk

Research has revealed one major finding you may not know which is that obesity can raise some cancer risks.

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 14, 2020

Cancer: Lifestyle, Genes or Just Bad Luck

At least half of all cancers are lifestyle-related between smoking, obesity and lack of exercise.

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Food & Fitness

Oct 11, 2020

Keto Diet and Cancer: What's the Latest Research?

The theory behind the keto diet as a treatment for cancer starts is that since cells metabolize sugar for energy, restricting sugar, or glucose, in theory, may help to starve cancer cells.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 10, 2020

A Day in the Life of a Hematologist/Oncologist Physician

Ryan Griffin, MD, is a hematologist and oncologist at Ochsner Health and has a personal connection with cancer care, as he is also a cancer survivor.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 8, 2020

Artist with Brain Cancer Finds Care Close to Home

Plaisance chose to stay close to home and undergo treatment at Ochsner’s Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center. She said she believes staying close to home and continuing to paint played a big role in her healing.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2020

A Day in the Life of an Oncology Operations RN

The newly expanded Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center continues to bring innovations to the fight against cancer, close to home.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2020

A Day in the Life of a Chemotherapy Infusion Nurse

Big things are going on at the newly expanded Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center. The addition doubles the size of the Cancer Center, increasing capacity to offer more high-quality cancer services and advanced clinical research making it one of the leading comprehensive destinations for cancer care across a multi-state region.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2020

A Day in the Life of a Cancer Center Receptionist

Zyiesha Carter is a patient access representative at the Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center. She views her job as more than a receptionist; she greets people as if they were family.

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 25, 2020

Patient with Aggressive Brain Cancer Shares Story of Hope

A glioblastoma patient shares the advice and practical wisdom he has gained through his two years battling the disease.

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 24, 2020

The HPV Vaccine: Fact vs. Fiction

The HPV vaccine is recommended for both girls and boys between ages 11-12. It provides protection against HPV infections that may occur later in life.

By Daniel Bronfin, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 11, 2020

Ovarian Cancer: Risks and Symptoms

Ovarian cancer is best treated when discovered at the earliest possible stage. Here are the common symptoms and risks associated with this deadly cancer.

By Julie Price, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 30, 2020

Advice for Making Cancer Appointments

The Ochsner Cancer Institute is dedicated to ensuring our patients, their families and our communities receive the best care and remain safe.

By Srikanth Tamma, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 29, 2020

Cancer Screenings are More Important Now than Ever

We’ve all heard that early detection is key when dealing with cancer, but what does that look like in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak?

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 11, 2020

Screen Out Cancer

New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a drop in cancer death rates during the 20-year period from 1999 to 2018. Each year, the death rate continued to decrease, resulting in a 26% drop overall.

By Ryan Griffin, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Apr 14, 2020

Mental Health Tips for Cancer Patients during Coronavirus

For some patients, the virus can seem like another setback toward focusing on your health and mental well-being.

By Tracey N. Murry

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 26, 2020

How Pediatric Therapy Can Benefit Your Child with Cancer

Rehab services – including physical, occupational and speech therapy – can be a beneficial part of their care from diagnosis, to treatment and into survivorship.

By Cailidh Booth, DPT

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 23, 2020

Coronavirus Advice for Cancer Patients

With the concerns about transmission of COVID-19, we aim to deliver the best cancer care while asking you to physically be at one of our facilities only when it is necessary: procedures/surgeries to diagnose or fight your cancer, radiation treatments, imaging studies or lab tests that will help plan or determine response to treatments.

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 11, 2020

The Best Way to Talk to Loved Ones with Cancer

For caregivers, friends and family of cancer patients, Dr. Michele Larzelere, an oncology psychologist at Ochsner’s Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center, suggests to focus on coping instead of just emotional positivity and offer to be there for the patient “through happy moments, sad moments, scary moments and boring moments."

By Christy Lorio

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 6, 2020

How Immunotherapy Helped a Stage 4 Lung Cancer Patient

After being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer, Michael Leboeuf tried a new treatment called immunotherapy in his battle with cancer.

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 17, 2020

Can Hair Dye Increase Your Risk for Breast Cancer?

A new study suggests permanent hair dyes and chemical straighteners may increase the risk of breast cancer in women.

By Zoe L. Larned, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 26, 2019

Will Talcum Powder Increase My Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Recent studies have demonstrated that talcum powder might increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Learn what gynecologists have to say about using baby powder as a feminine hygiene product.

By Diogo Torres, MD

Health Trends

Nov 18, 2019

Exercise Might Help You Avoid Cancer

Exercise is important when it comes to lowering your risk for cancer. Exercise helps control weight, reduce sex hormones or insulin, strengthens your immune system, and it can boost your quality of life during cancer treatment.

By Brian Moore, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 7, 2019

Living with Neuroendocrine Cancer

Breast cancer survivor Catherine Pittman was living in Mobile, Ala. when she was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumors in 2013.

Food & Fitness

Oct 29, 2019

Adventure Activities Lift Cancer Patients' Spirits

I was initially attracted to both programs because I’ve always been active and enjoyed activities such as kayaking and hiking prior to my cancer diagnosis.

By Christy Lorio

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 28, 2019

Will a Lung Cancer Screening Prevent Death?

Screening for high risk individuals dramatically improves lung cancer survival rates.

By Susan Gunn, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 24, 2019

Can Breastfeeding Prevent Breast Cancer?

Breastfeeding lowers the rate of postpartum depression, helps to achieve faster weight loss and may even lower your risk for developing breast cancer.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 24, 2019

What Are Symptoms of Skin Cancer?

New cases of melanoma have continued to increase, especially among non-Hispanic, white, older adults. Here's what to look for.

By Brian Moore, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 18, 2019

How Yoga Can Help Cancer Survivors

Yoga is not a cure for cancer, but it is part of a holistic approach that emphasizes the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well-being of an individual.

By Louanne Cho, 500 E-RYT, AWC

Food & Fitness

Oct 15, 2019

Try These 'Salternatives' and Lower Your Cancer Risk

Research shows salt damages stomach lining and causes lesions, which can become stomach cancer. Here are some easy ways to cut down on sodium or salt intake.

By Mckenzie Ellis

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 2, 2019

Cancer Screenings Can Save Lives

Although we don’t know the causes and risk factors for every kind of cancer, certain types have increased risk, making screenings very important.

By Ryan Griffin, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2019

'I Have Cancer': How to Tell Family and Friends

Ochsner cancer patient Christy Lorio explains how she managed telling family and friends about her diagnosis.

By Christy Lorio

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 25, 2019

How Cervical Cancer Screenings Can Save Your Life

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common type of cancer in women worldwide, but because it develops over time, it is also one of the most preventable.

By Jacob Estes, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 3, 2019

What is a Cooling Cap?

Discover how cooling the scalp during chemotherapy could help minimize hair loss.

Conditions & Treatment

Dec 4, 2018

Coping with Cancer During the Holidays

The holidays can be a challenging time to have cancer, but these tips can help make coping easier.

By Shaune Farve-Williams

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 7, 2018

Neuroendocrine Tumors: Treatment and Management

Recent research shows combining aggressive surgical cytoreduction with other therapies improves survival in patients with NETs.

By Eugene Woltering, MD, FACS

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 29, 2018

Mindful Meditation for Cancer Patients

When patients receive a cancer diagnosis they are often confronted with their own mortality for the first time, but there is growing evidence of the benefits Meditation can provide them throughout this journey.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 17, 2018

A Stage 1 Diagnosis Abroad - Tod Thedy's Story

When U.S. Foreign Service officer Tod Thedy was about to retire, a routine test showed a spot on his lung.

Health Trends

Oct 10, 2018

8 Ways to Mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Here's how to help raise breast cancer awareness throughout October -- and the entire year.

By Shaune Farve-Williams

Women's Health

Oct 8, 2018

Ochsner Patient Story: Sue Cloninger - Breast Cancer Story (Video)

After battling kidney cancer, Sue thought she was in the clear, but her battle wasn't over.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2018

Skin Cancer in People of Color: Prevent and Detect It Early

For people of color, skin cancer is less common but often more serious. Learn how to detect it.

By Suneeta Walia, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 24, 2018

What It's Like to Be Radioactive

Learn how to prep for radioactive iodine therapy and what to do afterwards.

By Allison Gouaux

Food & Fitness

May 30, 2018

Can Cardiorespiratory Fitness Lower Your Cancer Death Risk?

Cardiorespiratory fitness (also known as aerobic fitness) contributes to your overall heart heath. But what about reducing your risk of dying from cancer?

By Carl (Chip) Lavie, MD, FACC, FACP, FCCP

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 25, 2018

Breast Cancer Patient Surprised With Trip to Super Bowl

Allison is an inspiration to her caregivers at Ochsner, who surprised her and her family with a trip to Super Bowl LII.

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 22, 2018

What Would You Do If Cancer Were Preventable?

With the appropriate precautions, cervical cancer is both preventable and curable if detected early.

By April D. Green, PharmD

Health Trends

Nov 22, 2017

Pastor with Prostate Cancer Benefits from New Treatment

After having his prostate removed, musician and pastor, Gibson Sewell, tried an innovative new treatment at Ochsner to reduce the PSA level in his blood.

Food & Fitness

Nov 2, 2017

Yoga Poses for Cancer Survivors

Yoga may benefit cancer survivors and help them heal and learn to cope.

By Louanne Cho, 500 E-RYT, AWC

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 26, 2017

Understanding Your Cancer Diagnosis

Tips to keep in mind during what can be a challenging time.

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 25, 2017

Top Cancer Screenings for Adults (Video)

Early detection can save your life. As adults reach different milestones in life, there are important cancer screenings that you should know about.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 12, 2017

How to Live Your Best Life After Cancer

You did it! You beat it! Here’s how to live your best life after surviving cancer.

By Allison Gouaux

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 4, 2017

How Is Cancer Treated?

A brief overview of common cancer treatment options.

By John T Cole, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jul 14, 2017

Nooks and Crannies: Easy Skin Cancer Self-Check

Use this valuable information to learn how to give yourself a proper skin cancer exam and what to look for.

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 24, 2017

Chemotherapy and the Sun

Cancer patients' skin can be more prone to sun sensitivity if undergoing certain forms of chemo.

By Amanda Woolery, RN, BSN

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 12, 2017

Ochsner Doctor's Note: Precision Cancer Therapies Program

Doctor Marc Matrana discusses phase 1 cancer clinical trials with Ochsner's Precision Cancer Therapies Program.

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 30, 2016

Cancer During Pregnancy is Treatable

Although cancer in pregnant women is not common, it is not extraordinarily rare either. The good news is that treatments are possible

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 12, 2016

Are You at Risk for Cancer? (Infographic)

Over 1.6 million people will be diagnosed with cancer in 2016 and almost 600,000 will die from it.

By Suma Satti, MD

Health Trends

Oct 7, 2016

Thomas Morstead & Triumph Over Kid Cancer Team Up to Support Ochsner Hospital for Children

Ochsner Hospital for Children is teaming up with Thomas Morstead's What You Give Will Grow foundation and Triumph Over Kid Cancer (TOKC) to support the hospital’s Child Life program.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 4, 2016

Ochsner Patient Story: Katie Kelly, Cancer Survivor

At the young age of 30, Katie Kelly was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer.

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 28, 2016

Thyroid Cancer: Signs and Symptoms

Thyroid cancer is becoming increasingly common, rising to the 5th most common cancer in women.

Conditions & Treatment

Aug 18, 2016

What Is a Neuroendocrine Tumor (NET) and Why Choose Ochsner for your Care?

Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs) are rare tumors that are difficult to diagnose and can originate anywhere in the body. Learn more about NETs and your treatment options at Ochsner.

By J. Philip Boudreaux, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jul 15, 2016

Woman with Rare Neuroendocrine Tumor Finds Care and Hope at Ochsner

Six years ago, Jacqueline Shedrick was diagnosed with a cancerous neuroendocrine tumor. Although the diagnosis was scary, her physician and his team helped her stay positive.

Conditions & Treatment

Jul 7, 2016

6 Things to Know About Neuroendocrine Tumors

From symptoms to diagnosis to treatment, these six pieces of information will help you better understand neuroendocrine tumors, or NETs.

By Mary A. Maluccio, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 1, 2016

Ovarian Cancer Screenings: Myths vs. Facts

Because ovarian cancer is often caught in an advanced stage, and many symptoms resemble common conditions, there are a number of myths surrounding routine screening tests.

By Julie Price, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 3, 2016

Kidney Cancer: Facts and Figures

In 2016, there is estimated to be approximately 63,000 new cases of kidney cancer. Protect yourself by knowing the facts and symptoms.

Food & Fitness

Jul 17, 2015

7 Nutrition Tips to Reduce Cancer Risk

This article discusses seven evidence-based nutrition recommendations for cancer prevention from a report that took six years to produce by 21 scientists.

By Rebecca Colvin, LDN, MPH, RD

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 10, 2015

How Cancer Treatment Can Affect Heart Health

When dealing with cancer treatment, the last thing on your mind is likely the heart, but it is important to know that many cancer treatments can have immediate and long-term effects on the heart.

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 16, 2014

Understanding Cancer Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are designed to answer specific questions about biomedical or behavioral treatment.