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About our Cancer Center of Excellence
At Iredell Memorial, we understand how difficult it is to cope with cancer. That is why we offer the latest in imaging technology enabling us to diagnose cancer at the earliest stage. After a diagnosis, our cancer specialists work with you from day one to help you understand your disease and treatment options.
Our Women's Health Center provides self-requested screening mammograms for women 40 and older, based on American Cancer Society guidelines.
Reviewed 5/24/2023
Cancer: Myth or fact?
There are more than 100 types of cancer, but many of them are treatable—even curable. Some are even preventable. Nearly 4 in 10 adults will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in their lifetimes, so it's important to get the facts. Test your cancer knowledge with this quiz.
Myth or fact: Cancer survival rates have not improved since the 1990s.
Myth. Advances in prevention, screening and treatment have increased survival rates for the most common types of cancer. More than half of those living with cancer today were diagnosed 5 or more years ago.
Myth or fact: If no one in your family has had cancer, you won't get it either.
Myth. Only about 5% to 10% of cancers are passed down from parents to their children. Instead, most cancers are caused by genetic mutations that occur over a person's lifetime. For example, smoking can cause these mutations. Still, if cancer is in your family history, your doctor may recommend screening or other prevention options.
Myth or fact: You can become too old to be treated for cancer.
Myth. Decisions about cancer treatment shouldn't be based on age alone. In the U.S., more than half of all cancers occur in people who are 65 and older.
Myth or fact: Chemotherapy is the only option for cancer treatment.
Myth. Chemotherapy, or using drugs to kill cancer cells, is just one option for cancer treatment. Depending on the type of cancer, another type of treatment may be available—such as radiation therapy, surgery or immunotherapy.
Myth or fact: As soon as cancer is detected it must be treated.
Myth. In some cases, cancer may be detected early or appear to be slow-growing. If treatment poses more risk than the cancer itself, a doctor may instead closely monitor the cancer and suggest treatment when signs of growth occur.
In general, cancer that is caught in its earliest stages is easier to treat. Screening tests can help spot cancer early. And there are some things you can look for.
Common signs and symptoms of cancer
Sources: American Cancer Society; American Society of Clinical Oncology; National Cancer Institute
A customized treatment and recovery plan
Your customized treatment and recovery plan may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgery or transplants. Whatever plan is right for you, we will help you and your family prepare, answering questions and providing the resources you need. Our state-of-the-art treatment options represent the best medical care available for our patients facing cancer.
We even offer targeted cancer treatments using advanced technology to limit radiation exposure. At the J. Allen Knox Radiation Therapy Center, oncologists can spot cancerous growths while they are small and monitor recovery to ensure you remain cancer-free after treatment.
But we do more. We have compassionate nurses and physicians who understand the emotional and psychological impact of fighting cancer. They know how to help ease the anxiety, fear, helplessness and provide hope to our patients. From diagnosis to recovery, our cancer patients can rest assured they're receiving the best medical care delivered with understanding, warmth and compassion.
Psycho-oncology and survivorship services: during and after treatment
Living with Cancer Support Group - Virtual
This monthly group offer support to patients who are living with cancers of any type. The group is facilitated by our chaplain and is held on a monthly basis. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and concerns. For more information or to register contact Allison Simmons, Chaplain at 704.873.5661.
Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy (MCP) - Virtual
This group is designed by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to help patients suffering with loss of meaning around cancer. MCP is a structured intervention that can help reduces feelings of despair and establish a sense of meaning in the face of cancer. Groups are facilitated by a licensed therapist and limited to 6 participates. Registration is required. For more information or to register contact Dr. Latasha Ellis at 704.380.3620.
Our accreditations
Iredell Health System has been accredited as a Community Hospital Cancer Program by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. The Women's Health Center is accredited by the American College of Radiology.
If you would like to learn more about cancer diagnosis, prevention and treatment at Iredell Health System, contact us today.