2015 Annual Report - CaroMont Health...management and patient survivorship services. We focus on a...

I Cancer Center Annual Report

2015 Annual ReportBased on 2014 Data

Cancer Center Annual ReportII

Table of ContentsOverview 1Treatment 2Services 4Accreditations 7Key Accomplishments 8Clinical Trials 10Cancer Conferences 10Cancer Committee 11Registry Data and Study 13Survivor Story 16Partnerships 17Photographic Year in Review 18Resource Directory 19

III Cancer Center Annual Report

WelcomeWe are pleased to share CaroMont Health’s 2015 Cancer Program Annual Report highlighting the exceptional cancer care provided to our patients and their families. At CaroMont Health, we strive for more than just the highest ratings, we hope to provide the best possible cancer care in our community.

Cancer can happen to anyone. Regardless of where patients are in their cancer journey, CaroMont Health is ready to assist in making the best decisions about their diagnosis and treatment. The CaroMont Cancer Center is fully accredited by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer as a Comprehensive Cancer Program and is

also accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, one of only a few in North Carolina.

This report is intended to provide an overview of the comprehensive cancer prevention, genetic counseling and screening, early detection, education, treatment and follow-up, symptom management and survivorship services provided by our multidisciplinary team of experts. We are proud to highlight our accomplishments and strategic initiative implementations from the past year.

In 2015, CaroMont Health launched palliative care services, in collaboration with Gaston Hospice, for patients in the Cancer Center. This program is designed to help cancer patients manage symptoms, decrease treatment-related emergency department visits, and improve care coordination and overall quality of life.

This past year has also seen growth of the patient navigation program, with the addition of two additional nurse navigators and a financial navigator, who will help patients understand the payment options and funding sources available. The cancer program also welcomed a Clinical Medical Dosimetrist and Radiation Physicist, and Jerome Butler, MD to the CaroMont Health Radiation Oncology program.

On behalf of our team of caring and compassionate healthcare professionals, it is with pleasure we present the 2015 Cancer Program Annual Report.

In Good Health!

Steven Yates, MD, Chairman, CaroMont Cancer Committee

Steven Yates, MD

1Cancer Center Annual Report1

OverviewMissionIt is our mission to improve the health of the people and communities we serve by providing high-quality, timely, compassionate oncology services that are nationally-recognized and accredited.

PromiseOur promise is to provide excellent care. The physicians and professional staff of the CaroMont Cancer Center take pride in providing the very best care for you and consider it a privilege to provide your treatments.

HistoryThe CaroMont Cancer Center was established in 1989 on the campus of CaroMont Regional Medical Center to address the need for comprehensive cancer services in Gaston County. Since then, the program has grown significantly in staff and technology, and recently expanded into neighboring Lincoln County.

Founded on the principle of providing high-quality, convenient care to our community, CaroMont Cancer Center continues to work to improve the health of the people and communities we serve.

About CaroMont Cancer ProgramThe CaroMont Cancer Center provides an overall system-of-care approach to the treatment of cancer. This includes prevention, early detection, education, treatment, follow up, symptom management and patient survivorship services. We focus on a patient-centric approach to cancer care, which places the patient and their family at the heart of decision making and treatment planning.

Our highly-responsive team of physicians and staff members initiate care in a coordinated manner with other necessary support services provided in the community. Our patients benefit from sophisticated technology and expertise, as well as a unique healing environment designed for wellness and hope.

We understand that patients prefer to stay close to home when receiving cancer treatment. That’s why we offer nationally-accredited cancer care…in your community.

2 Cancer Center Annual Report

TreatmentRadiation TherapyRadiation therapy is one of the most effective weapons in the war against cancer. It is given as part of an initial treatment plan if necessary or as a means to lessen or control symptoms, such as cancer-related pain. This rapidly changing field, with several evolving technologies, offers the most advanced, precise and sophisticated cancer treatments available.

CaroMont Cancer Center uses a targeted therapy approach that utilizes specific treatment to limit side effects. CaroMont Cancer Center therapies include TrueBeam™ Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Stereotactic Body Radiosurgery (SBRT), Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), Breast MammoSite® and Brachytherapy.

This advanced technology is available at our two locations: CaroMont Regional Medical Center and Lincoln Cancer Center. The treatment is highly technical and requires special personnel such as Radiation Oncologists, Dosimetrists, Radiation Therapists and Medical Physicists.

The Radiation Oncology program is nationally accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR).

SurgeryCaroMont Health has highly-trained, board-certified surgeons on staff to address the surgical needs associated with cancer treatment plans. These surgeons work closely with care teams to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Depending on the type of cancer, a patient could see one of the following: Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) Surgeon, General Surgeon, Colorectal Surgeon, Fellowship-Trained Breast Surgeon, Neurosurgeon, Plastic Surgeon, Thoracic Surgeon or Urologist.

Medical Oncology and HematologyTreatment may also involve medical oncology, and CaroMont Cancer Center’s accredited program offers compassionate care from board-certified medical oncologists.

CaroMont Cancer Center offers convenient on-site access to inpatient and outpatient infusion services. A specially-trained team of nurses provide chemotherapy and other systemic treatments in local physician offices and the CaroMont Cancer Center.


Treatment (continued)

Medical Oncology Unit CaroMont Regional Medical Center’s Medical Oncology Unit is focused on meeting the special needs of cancer patients. The nursing staff is comprised of Registered Nurses who have been specifically trained through the Oncology Nursing Society to administer chemotherapy and manage the care of patients receiving cancer therapies. Many have achieved national nursing certification in Oncology (OCN).

Infusion CenterAs with the Medical Oncology Unit, our Registered Nurses have extensive experience in infusion therapy and have received certification in chemotherapy and biotherapy administration through the Oncology Nursing Society. These nurses work collaboratively with physicians to address patient emotional and physical needs during treatment. Treatment is provided in private areas with reclining chairs, televisions and easy access from the parking deck.

A sample of the services offered in the Infusion Center include: � Administration of intravenous medications and chemotherapy � Administration of blood and blood component therapy � Administration of hydration and antiemetics


ServicesCaroMont Cancer Center recognizes that cancer can affect every aspect of a person’s life and the journey can be very challenging for the patient and their loved ones. CaroMont Cancer Center offers a number of support services to assist patients physically, psychologically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

CaroMont Comprehensive Breast CenterWithout leaving the community, breast cancer patients benefit from a personalized plan of treatment recommendations from a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists and surgeons.

In ONE visit, newly-diagnosed breast cancer patients receive: � A comprehensive evaluation � A discussion of the diagnostic and/or treatment options � A personalized plan of treatment recommendations � An assessment for clinical trial eligibility � A meeting with a nurse navigator and oncology dietitian � An assessment for Genetic Counseling

Genetic Services ProgramThe Genetic Services Program at CaroMont Health identifies patients and family members who are at increased risk for hereditary cancer. Meeting with a board-certified genetic counselor to discuss the options for genetic testing, screening and medical management can aid in early detection and cancer prevention. A genetic consultation includes:

� Detailed review of an individual’s medical and family history � A risk assessment of the likelihood that the cancer in the family is hereditary � Discussion of the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing � Resources and support surrounding hereditary cancer susceptibility

Counseling Services Oncology Counseling is available to assist patients and their family in coping with the emotional and psychosocial effects of the cancer experience. In 2015, the Cancer Center was pleased to welcome Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Hannah Smith, to the team.

Palliative Care Many people with chronic illness suffer symptom burden that impacts their quality of life. In an effort to improve the care of patients, CaroMont Regional Medical Center provides outpatient palliative care services to help with the elimination or lessening of their symptoms. The team works to create a plan of care that is individualized for the patient and incorporates cultural and spiritual needs.


Services (continued)

Navigation Services The goal of navigation is to make sure that services offered through the CaroMont Cancer Center and the community are available to all patients. Navigators eliminate barriers that could interfere with or delay treatment. They educate patients and families and provide access to local and national resources. Navigation services are offered through the CaroMont Cancer Center by a team of nurses, social workers, financial counselors and lay navigators. These services are provided from diagnosis into survivorship.

Pastoral CareChaplains are available to support cancer patients, families and friends in making use of faith or spiritual values to work through the challenges of cancer. Pastoral Care may include conversation, prayer, liturgy, worship, sacraments, scripture reading, reflection and program referral. The pastoral care service is interfaith, personal and specific for the individual and family in need. The William McKinley Roberts Memorial Chapel is located on the second floor of CaroMont Regional Medical Center and is open for personal meditation 24 hours a day.

Gaston Hospice CaroMont’s Gaston Hospice cares for people who have a life-limiting illness that is no longer responding to curative treatment. Hospice care helps to allow these patients to live at home as fully as possible. Since 1981, the highly experienced staff and volunteers have dedicated themselves to providing the most compassionate and highest quality hospice care for your loved one and you. Hospice also provides services at CaroMont Regional Medical Center, Robin Johnson Hospice House and local long-term care facilities.

To learn more, please visit www.gastonhospice.org.


Services (continued)

Nutritional Counseling Nutrition services, specific to cancer patients and survivors, are offered by a registered dietitian with special training in oncology.

P.R.I.D.E. Program - Oncology Wellness ProgramPower to Recover through Individualized Development and Exercise

P.R.I.D.E. is a wellness program designed to assist cancer survivors in managing the physical, social, psychological and spiritual side effects of cancer treatment.

The program, developed by the CaroMont Health and Fitness Center and the Cancer Center, provides both physical exercise and lecture-style educational presentations during and post-treatment.

The goals of P.R.I.D.E. include: � Reducing fatigue � Maintaining or improving strength and endurance � Decreasing risk of depression � Increasing Independence for normal activities � Improving quality of life � Educating and informing patients

P.R.I.D.E.C A N C E R W E L L N E S S P R O G R A M

Power to Recover through Individualized Development and Exercise


AccreditationsCaroMont Health and CaroMont Cancer Center are proud to be recognized and accredited by a number of renowned professional healthcare organizations, including:

American College of Surgeons (ACOS) - Commission on Cancer

National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC)

The American College of Radiology (ACR) Radiation Oncology Program

The Joint Commission (TJC)

College of American Pathologists

Nuclear Regulatory Commission

American College of Radiology’s CT Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Mammography Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s MRI Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Nuclear Medicine Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s PET/CT Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Ultrasound Accreditation Program

American College of Radiology’s Breast Center of Excellence

Member of the Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC). The ACCC is a recognized leader and premier provider of resources for the cancer centers. ACCC serves as an education and advocacy organization for the entire cancer team.


2015 Key AccomplishmentsOncology Palliative Care Clinic

A collaborative initiative with Gaston Hospice opened its doors this year in the CaroMont Cancer Center. With the combined leadership of Michael Case, MD, Gaston Hospice Medical Director, and Steven Yates, MD, Oncology Service Line Administrator, this new service is designed to meet the symptom management needs of cancer patients.

Clinic participants have access to palliative care throughout their experience with cancer, with the goal of preventing or treating the symptoms and side effects of the disease and its treatment as well as addressing related psychological, social and spiritual needs.

Under the guidance of Leanne King, NP, palliative care services offered through the CaroMont Cancer Center can address a broad range of issues, integrating an individual’s specific needs into the plan of care.

Patient and Family Advisory CouncilThe CaroMont Cancer Center established a Patient and Family Advisory Council this year, containing a mix of past and present oncology patients, family members and staff to help guide improvement in the quality and overall oncology patient experience.

Including patients and their families offers a unique perspective to cancer care, as they are an important part of the care team and can offer valuable feedback about the care they’ve received. The Advisory Council provides insights across a number of disciplines during monthly meetings, including:

� Identifying patient and family needs and concerns. � Providing feedback on current systems and processes. � Generating ideas to improve care. � Act as catalysts and advocates for expanding the patient-centered care model.

Members:

Patricia Adelekun Reba JacobsDavid Bradshaw Barry LinebergerGeraldine Chismar Susan MurphyAmy Crisp Diane RobertsRichard Forde Wayne SetzerClaudia Frazier

Leanne King, NP


2015 Key AccomplishmentsExpanding Support

The CaroMont Cancer Center strives to treat the whole patient, not just cancer. This is achieved through multiple support services and programs, including patient navigation. In 2015, we were pleased to welcome Hannah Smith, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to the Cancer Center team.

Hannah helps patients, families and caregivers deal with the total experience of a cancer diagnosis, from treatment into survivorship. She is trained as an oncology social worker and helps counsel patients with the psychological, social, emotional and spiritual issues that arise.

We welcome Hannah to the team. Her enthusiasm and passion will continue to enhance our full-range of services offered to cancer patients.

Dental Care GrantSome cancer patients require extensive dental work prior to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. It is important to treat and repair any oral infections and complications before beginning treatment to avoid delays in treatment, especially with cancers of the head and neck.

The Cancer Center staff works with hospital eligibility specialists, community agencies and area dentists to assist with resources for patients in need. Despite these efforts, many lack the means to pay for dental services. Thanks to a generous grant from the CaroMont Health Foundation, patients in the CaroMont Cancer Center who are uninsured, under-insured or are Medicare beneficiaries now have access to proper dental care prior to treatment.

As a result of the grant, the Cancer Center has been able to assist ten patients with medically-necessary, pre-treatment dental expenses.

Hannah Smith, LCSW


Clinical TrialsClinical trials are strictly controlled studies of new and emerging therapies. These studies test whether a new drug, prevention strategy or screening option is safe and effective for patients.CaroMont Cancer Center is part of a consortium of North Carolina cancer centers with access to a wide variety of clinical trials sponsored by government organizations such as the National Cancer Institute. This includes pharmaceutical trials and physician-initiated studies developed by our own physicians and research team.

In 2015, 8.5% of the new cancer patients as CaroMont Health were enrolled in clinical trials related to cancer prevention, diagnosis, screening, treatment, quality of life or tissue studies/registries. Many of the patients enrolled in clinical trials in previous years also continue to be followed. This contributes greatly to science and the most up-to-date cancer care.

In 2015, the Oncology Research Department, in conjunction with CaroMont’s Wellness Center, opened a new in-house study focusing on balance in cancer patients.

CaroMont Cancer Conferences

Cancer Conferences bring physicians of multiple disciplines into one room to discuss recently diagnosed cases, difficult cases and cases of interest in a prospective manner. This approach enables the treating physician to discuss patient care with a broad spectrum of specialties. Discussions include patient medical history, diagnostic testing, surgical procedures, stage of disease at diagnosis, treatment options including palliative care, pain management and survival outcomes. In 2015, CaroMont Health held both General Cancer Conference and a Breast Cancer-specific conference.

Physicians and healthcare professionals are welcome to attend these meetings that enhance patient care. All CaroMont Health medical staff are encouraged to submit cases to the cancer registry for presentation.


Cancer CommitteeThe Cancer Committee is the designated multidisciplinary body for the administrative oversight, development and review of cancer care services at CaroMont Health. The group meets quarterly and is charged with assessing and evaluating the quality of the cancer program and making recommendations.

Cancer Committee Membership:

Steven Yates, MD Chairman/Medical Oncologist/Cancer Conference CoordinatorAlec Akbarov, MD Cardiothoracic SurgeonKathleen Besson Chief Operating OfficerJanet Brightman Director, Outpatient RehabilitationJerome Butler, MD Radiation OncologistMichael Case, MD Medical Director, Gaston HospiceMark Chaparro Interim Director, PharmacyWilliam Charles, MD Medical OncologistAshley Cloninger, RN Oncology Nurse NavigatorTammy Cozad Clinical ResearchTodd Davis, MD Chief Medical OfficerRobert Doline, MD Radiation OncologistLisa Ganem, CTR Certified Tumor Registrar (Cancer Registry Quality Coordinator)James Greelish, MD Cardiothoracic SurgeonKaye Grubaugh, RN Palliative CareJanice Hill, RN 5 South, Clinical Nurse ManagerKim Hughes, RN Oncology Nurse NavigatorDoug Johnson, DO Diagnostic RadiologistGayla Jones Cancer RegistryCarrie Klamut American Cancer SocietyRichard Lahm Executive Director, Gaston HospiceRenee Lawing, RN Social Worker/Case ManagerSteve Lemons Pastoral CareAshley Long, RN Director, Medical Surgical ServicesPaula Lundgren, MD Breast SurgeonAshley Marshall Oncology Quality CoordinatorJames McGrath, MD Medical OncologistCharles Meakin, MD Radiation Oncologist


Ashley Migliaro Genetic CounselorMargie Owenby Oncology Program Coordinator (Community Outreach Coordinator)Stephanie Roberts Executive Director, Cancer Services of Gaston CountyDeanna Roe Director, Medical ImagingSandy Schultz, MD General SurgeonHannah Smith Oncology Social Worker (Psychosocial Services Coordinator)Robin Smith, NP Manager, OncologyLia Spina, MD Cancer Liaison Physician/Physician Quality CoordinatorBrian Sutton, MD PathologySteve Tracy, MD Pathology Rick Varterasian Director, Oncology Service Line Robert Waterhouse, MD UrologistAmy Whisnant, RN Director, Perioperative ServicesBevery Wood Oncology Nutritionist


CaroMont Cancer Registry DataThe Cancer Registry is an essential component of the CaroMont Health Cancer Program. The Cancer Registry staff works closely with the Cancer Committee to maintain accreditation as a Community Hospital Comprehensive Cancer Program by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.

Responsibilities of the registry include the accurate and timely collection of information on cancer diagnosed and/or treated at CaroMont Health, as well as the management and analysis of this data. The information collected, such as demographics, anatomic site, tests, treatment and extent of disease, has multiple uses which include outcome reporting, patient care reviews, physician education, clinical research and hospital planning.

The data collected by the Cancer Registry is electronically submitted to the State of North Carolina and the National Cancer Database (NCDB). This allows comparative analysis with other hospitals or databases. Data analysis for specific sites can be done to compare elements to other published state, regional or national data. This information provides the cancer program benchmarking opportunities to patterns of patient care and survival.

CaroMont Health 2014 Cancer Cases

Top Four Tumor Sites

All Other39.91%

Colon/Rectum7.80%

Prostate8.79%

Lung19.91%

Breast23.59%


CaroMont Cancer Registry DataPrimary Site Table - 2014

Primary Site Total Gender AJCC Stage Group

Male Female 0 I II III IV NA UNK % Total

Breast 263 3 260 43 119 68 18 10 0 5 23.59

Lung 222 108 114 1 53 15 45 101 0 7 19.91

Prostate 98 98 0 0 10 65 11 9 0 3 8.79

Colon/Rectum 87 44 43 2 15 22 24 14 0 10 7.80

Urinary Bladder 46 36 10 22 7 11 4 0 0 2 4.13

Lip Oral Cavity Pharynx

43 33 10 0 2 7 5 26 0 3 3.86

Kidney 39 23 16 0 21 2 2 6 0 8 3.50

Brain/Spinal Cord/Nervous System

34 14 20 0 0 0 0 0 34 0 3.04

Lymphoma 32 15 17 0 7 5 12 6 0 2 2.87

Melanoma skin 31 21 10 6 9 3 4 3 0 6 2.78

Larynx 23 15 8 1 1 2 5 14 0 0 2.06

Liver 20 17 3 0 2 4 1 6 2 5 1.79

Pancreas 20 11 9 0 0 2 0 16 0 2 1.79

Thyroid 18 5 13 0 5 4 0 1 0 8 1.61

Corpus Uteri 18 0 18 0 8 2 2 2 0 4 1.61

Esophagus 13 11 2 1 1 3 5 0 0 3 1.17

Stomach 11 9 2 0 1 1 2 4 0 3 0.99

Multiple Myeloma 10 7 3 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0.90

Anus 8 2 6 0 1 3 2 1 0 1 0.72

Leukemia 7 5 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 0.63

Cervix 5 0 5 0 0 2 3 0 0 0 0.45

Small Intestine 5 2 3 0 0 0 3 2 0 4 0.45

Ovary 4 0 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0.36

Other Female Genital 3 0 3 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0.27

Soft Tissue 3 0 3 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0.27

Other Skin 2 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0.18

Other Urinary 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0.18

Other Male Genital 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0.18

Bones and Joints 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0.09

Unknown Sites 27 17 10 0 0 0 0 0 27 0 2.42

Other 18 8 10 0 1 0 3 1 10 3 1.62

Totals 1115 509 606 78 264 224 152 226 92 79 100.00


2015 Quality StudyChemotherapy Returns Lia M. Spina, MDGaston Hematology & Oncology Associates

Objective:The study objective is to assess how we can decrease the amount of future unplanned chemotherapy returns to the Emergency Department (ED).

Study Population:Patients who were diagnosed with cancer who returned to the ED with preventable symptoms or had an Inpatient Admission within 30 days of their last chemotherapy treatment.

Methodology:The criteria used to assess the evaluation and treatment was based on patients receiving chemotherapy between October 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014. Of this population, 81 patients, categorized by the primary cancer sites of Breast, Colon, Lung and Other, who presented symptoms including constipation, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, neutropenic fever and Pancytopenia/Anemia/Thrombocytopenia/Leukocytopenia were assessed. It was also noted if they had received education on symptom management and prevention prior to their ED visit or readmission.

Conclusions:Pancytopenia/Anemia/Thrombocytopenia/Leukocytopenia accounted for the highest return rate, 35.80% and nausea/vomiting had the second-highest return rate of 13.58%. The majority of the population with the most unplanned returns was between the ages of 61 and 80, and a higher frequency of ED returns averaged six to eight days after chemotherapy treatment.

Recommendations:To decrease future chemotherapy returns, in-office symptom management and prevention education will be conducted with all chemotherapy patients to remind them of potential side effects and management techniques. A second implementation improves communication between the ED and medical oncologists. ED physicians can alert the oncologists when a cancer patient is seen via fax or phone. This ensures the oncologists are kept current on the patient’s status and can arrange for follow-up appointments and treatments more quickly.

# of Encounters per Diagnosis 8 7 11 3 28

# of All Return Encounters 81 81 81 81 81

Rate of Returns with Diagnosis 9.88% 8.64% 13.58% 3.70% 35.80%

Constipation Diarrhea Nausea/Vomiting Neutro Fever Pan/Ane/Thro/Leuko

81 81 81 81 81

8 8 311 28


Patient Survivor StoryFaith, Love and Medicine Saved His Life Jerry Davis, 69, is healthy and full of life. The father of two children, four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and the Associate Pastor at his home church, AME Zion in York, SC, Mr. Davis knows the true meaning of serving others and living life to the fullest. So, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer, it came as a huge shock to him and his wife, Bonita.

Like many others, Mr. Davis didn’t have any symptoms. He felt great and exercised regularly. He and his wife like to walk during the week at the local mall in Gastonia, and he also enjoys a tennis match from time to time.

Mr. Davis had been receiving annual prostate screens for a number of years, but his last screen revealed a high Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), which can be indicative of prostate cancer. A biopsy and further test results later confirmed this diagnosis.

Symptoms can go undetected and various factors can cause a man’s PSA level to fluctuate with age or certain medications. If a doctor detects an elevated PSA level, they may recommend a second test to confirm the original finding. If the PSA level is still high, continuing PSA tests and DREs (digital rectal exams) at regular intervals may be recommended to watch for changes over time. In general, the higher a man’s PSA level, the more likely it is that he has prostate cancer, and a continuous rise in a man’s PSA level over time may also be a sign of prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men affecting one in seven American men, and the prevalence in African American men is 1.6 times greater than Caucasian men. Although experts do not yet understand why prostate cancer incidence is higher among African American men, it is widely believed that a combination of genetic differences, lifestyle and nutrition habits, and medical care may all play a role in the statistics.

“If detected in its early stages, prostate cancer is highly treatable and most men go on to live normal, healthy lives after treatment and recovery,” said Jerome Butler, MD. “Being aware of risk factors is critical to prevention and long-term health.”

Prostate cancer is a serious health concern as men age. It occurs when some prostate cells abnormally reproduce rapidly, resulting in a tumor. A serious risk is that most prostate cancers develop in men without any symptoms in its early stages and if left untreated, can spread to other parts of the body and produce secondary tumors. Though no test is perfect, routine annual screenings can help to detect prostate cancer early on before the disease progresses.

(continued on next page)


Patient Survivor Story (continued)

“To prevent undetected prostate cancer, it is recommended that men should receive an annual prostate screen beginning at age 50,” said Dr. Butler. “For men at a higher risk, such as African American men, those who have poor lifestyle habits and those with a family history of prostate cancer, screening should start as early as age 40.”

“I asked my pastor if I could share my story to the church congregation so that they can understand the importance of getting screened and taking care of their health,” said Mr. Davis. “We’re all going to get sick at some time or another, but if I can save another person through my story, I feel good about that.”

CaroMont Cancer Center provides advanced treatment therapies, as well as a multidisciplinary team, to determine the most effective analysis and treatment methods for each person. Following surgery, Mr. Davis received hormone therapy treatment and external beam radiation.

When asked what he would tell others who might be reluctant to get screened, Mr. Davis said, “I would tell them first of all, cancer is not a death sentence, but it’s important to get screened so doctors can catch it early.”

Through his surgery and treatment, Mr. Davis says he has felt great and credits this to the excellent care from his doctors, his wife and his strong faith. After radiation therapy, he and his wife plan to vacation in Hawaii, a place they have always wanted to visit.

PartnershipsCaroMont Cancer Center partners with the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen Foundation, Cancer Services of Gaston County, and many other local, regional and national organizations to further enhance and support our mission.

We actively seek local and national cancer care partners to bolster our strengths and better enable us to carry out the vision of CaroMont Health. Continuous improvement is not a solo performance. It requires an orchestrated effort, and we are eager to team up with organizations that can boost quality, help control costs and provide opportunities to promote community wellness.

We are proud of our cancer care partnerships in the community and the outreach programs in which we participate. Our dedicated medical professionals and volunteers contribute many hours to the community and participate in many different health events.

From our support and involvement in CaroMont Health free screenings, to volunteering in our community, wellness events and educational classes, the Cancer Program is proud to participate in these activities because of their value to our community.


Resource DirectoryCancer Center 704.834.2944Cancer Registry 704.834.4375CaroMont Comprehensive Breast Clinic 704.834.3540 CaroMont Health 704.834.2000CaroMont Heart 704.834.3278Clinical Research 704.834.2810Gaston Hospice 704.861.8405 Genetic Counseling 704.834.3671Infusion Center 704.834.3545Inpatient Oncology Unit 704.834.5200Inpatient Palliative Care 704.834.3403Lincoln Cancer Center 704.735.6637 Medical Imaging (Radiology) 704.671.5300Oncology Nutritional Services 704.834.3966Pastoral Care 704.834.2888Patient Navigation 704.834.4375P.R.I.D.E. Program 704.671.7930Radiation Oncology 704.834.2944Social Worker 704.671.7784 Volunteer Services 704.834.2256

704.834.2944 | caromonthealth.org

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