Medical Services • Cancer Services

Early detection, prevention and education are keys to beating cancer

There are no early warning symptoms for many types of cancer, so it is very important to have regular screening tests. A simple annual cancer screening can detect many types of cancer early, and give you more treatment options.

• Prostate cancer screening. We offer prostate cancer screenings for a nominal cost twice a year including a blood test for PSA (prostate specific antigen) and a digital rectal exam or DRE.
• Skin cancer screening. Free skin cancer screening offered annually.
• Colorectal cancer screenings. Ask your general practitioner about this critical test to check for colon cancer during your annual physical.
• Digital Mammography. Allows mammography data to be stored on a computer and enhanced or manipulated for thorough evaluation of breast cancer warning signs.
• Upper GI Endoscopy. For people with chronic heartburn, this procedure checks the lining of the esophagus for pre-cancerous tissue damage.

Imaging tests for more precise cancer diagnosis

• PET/CT scanning. More precise image than CT or MRI alone in detecting cancer.
• R2 ImageChecker® Computer Aided Detection (CAD) System. Minimizes false negative readings during mammograms.
• Breast ultrasound. Helps the radiologist determine if an area contains a fluid-filled cyst or solid mass when diagnosing breast cancer.
• Magnetic resonance imaging. Provides additional information about abnormal tissue in the diagnosis of cancer.
• Computerized Tomographic Radiotherapy Simulator (CT-SIM). Uses computerized tomography to generate 3-D images of internal anatomy to make diagnosing cancer simpler.
• CT and Siemens SOMATOM Definition Dual Source CT System. Non-invasive screenings help detect cancer and provide higher resolution with less exposure to radiation.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Used to diagnose and sometimes treat gallstones and conditions of the bile ducts and pancreas, including pancreatic cancer.

Second Opinion Program for prostate cancer

Through the Second Opinion Program, our experienced prostate cancer team helps men weigh the pros and cons of the latest prostate cancer treatment options. The main goal of NCH's second opinion program is to ensure that prostate cancer patients get what they need, when they need it. To request a second opinion, call our prostate nurse navigator at 847.618.6572.

Three convenient mammogram locations and one-call scheduling—847.618.3700

Surgical Biopsies for further diagnosis

• Advanced breast biopsy options. Includes ultrasound-guided, MRI-guided and stereotactic breast biopsy, as well as intact breast excisional biopsies.

Get the cancer care you deserve. Use our online directory to find a physician or call 847.618.4YOU (4968) for a cancer specialist who is right for you.