Educational Archives - HHO Hunterdon Hematology Oncology

The Role of Hospice in Oncology Treatment: Compassion, Support, and Personalized Care

When facing a cancer diagnosis, patients and their families often experience an overwhelming range of emotions and decisions. While advancements in oncology continue to improve treatment options, hospice care remains an essential component of comprehensive cancer care—ensuring comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients with advanced illness.

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice care is a specialized form of healthcare designed for individuals with life-limiting illnesses, including advanced-stage cancer. The focus shifts from curative treatments to enhancing comfort, managing symptoms, and providing emotional and spiritual support. Hospice care allows patients to spend their remaining time with dignity, surrounded by loved ones, in a setting where they feel most comfortable—whether at home, in a hospice facility, or a hospital.

Personalized Treatment Plans for Quality of Life

Every patient’s journey is unique, and hospice care prioritizes personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs. A dedicated care team—including physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and trained volunteers—works closely with patients and their families to provide:

Pain and symptom management to ensure comfort
Emotional and psychological support to help patients and families navigate this challenging time
Guidance on end-of-life decisions to honor the patient’s wishes
Respite care for caregivers, allowing loved ones to rest while ensuring continued quality care

At Hunterdon Hospice, the mission is to provide compassionate, knowledgeable care that focuses on holistic well-being—physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Hospice and Community Support: A Network of Care

Hospice care extends beyond the patient, offering essential resources to caregivers, family members, and the broader community. Bereavement counseling, grief support groups, and educational workshops help families process loss and find comfort in shared experiences. Hospice care is not about giving up—it’s about ensuring comfort, dignity, and support when it matters most.

Events like ‘Sapphires & Sequins’ and ‘Splash of Sparkle – Women Supporting Wellness’ highlight the importance of community-driven support for hospice care. By coming together, we can ensure that organizations like Hunterdon Hospice continue their invaluable work—helping patients and families through life’s most difficult moments with compassion and dignity.

A New Tradition with a Powerful Purpose

While we have cherished our time supporting the annual ‘Sapphires & Sequins’ benefit since 2022, we are excited to embrace this fresh and vibrant celebration. Splash of Sparkle, coming up on April 6th at the stunning Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, NJ, is a festive Sunday brunch that promises an elegant yet fun-filled gathering, complete with exciting surprises—all in the spirit of community and giving.

Though the event has a new name and format, the mission remains the same: to support Hunterdon Hospice, a vital organization that provides compassionate, knowledgeable, and dignified care for patients and their families facing difficult times.

The funds raised during Splash of Sparkle, hosted by the Hunterdon Health Auxiliary, will directly benefit Hunterdon Hospice, ensuring they can continue their essential work in our community. Many of us have personally witnessed the impact of hospice care, and we are honored to stand behind this cause.

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology’s Commitment to Community Care

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, we believe in supporting the health and wellness of our community beyond the walls of our practice. That’s why we are proud to sponsor and actively participate in Splash of Sparkle. Our team understands firsthand the importance of comprehensive, compassionate care, and we are dedicated to uplifting organizations like Hunterdon Hospice that make a difference in the lives of so many.

Join Us!

We invite you to bring your sparkle and be part of this exciting new tradition! Whether you’re attending to support a loved one, honor a cause close to your heart, or simply enjoy a meaningful and fun-filled day, Splash of Sparkle is sure to be an unforgettable event.

Event Details
Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Location: Fiddler’s Elbow Country Club, Bedminster, NJ

For more information:

Contact Hunterdon Health Auxiliary at [email protected]
Visit the Event Page
Purchase Event Tickets Here

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology is proud to be part of this journey, and we look forward to seeing you there!

To learn more about Hunterdon Hospice or how you can help, visit Hunterdon Health.

Power in Meditation: A Path to Healing for Patients and Their Loved Ones

Why Mindfulness Matters in the Cancer Journey

A cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience—not just for the patient but also for caregivers, family members, and loved ones who provide unwavering support. While medical treatments focus on targeting the disease, emotional and mental well-being play a critical role in the overall healing process.

One effective, science-backed approach to managing the emotional and physical challenges of cancer is meditation for cancer patients and their support networks. Mindfulness and meditation techniques have been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, alleviate anxiety, and enhance overall quality of life during cancer treatment and survivorship.

How Meditation Supports Patients

Meditation, particularly mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), guided imagery, and breathwork, has been studied extensively for its positive effects on cancer patients. Many top cancer centers in the U.S., including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and MD Anderson Cancer Center, offer mindfulness and meditation programs as part of integrative cancer care.

Here’s how a regular meditation practice can benefit patients:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy can cause physical and emotional stress. Meditation helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, leading to a greater sense of calm. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, mindfulness meditation has been associated with significant reductions in anxiety and depression in cancer patients.

2. Improves Sleep Quality

Cancer-related fatigue and insomnia are common struggles during treatment. Research from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggests that mindfulness meditation can help regulate sleep patterns, allowing patients to rest more effectively, which is essential for recovery.

3. Helps with Pain Management

Pain from cancer treatments can be debilitating, but meditation activates regions in the brain associated with pain control. A study from Harvard Medical School found that meditation can help patients develop a greater tolerance for discomfort by shifting their focus away from pain.

4. Strengthens Emotional Resilience

Mindfulness practices help patients cultivate emotional resilience by encouraging acceptance and self-compassion. This can be especially beneficial for individuals undergoing long-term treatment, as it provides them with coping mechanisms to navigate uncertainty and fear.

Meditation for Caregivers and Family Members

Cancer doesn’t only impact the patient; it also affects those providing care and support. Caregivers, family members, and friends often experience emotional exhaustion, stress, and even burnout. Practicing meditation can help them find balance while ensuring they are mentally and emotionally available for their loved one.

1. Prevents Caregiver Burnout

According to the American Cancer Society, caregivers often experience high levels of emotional and physical fatigue. Engaging in short meditation sessions—such as mindful breathing or guided relaxation—can help reduce chronic stress and overwhelm, improving the caregiver’s ability to provide support.

2. Enhances Emotional Connection

When loved ones practice mindfulness, they become more present and engaged in the patient’s journey. This fosters deeper connections, better communication, and a greater sense of understanding between patients and caregivers.

3. Encourages Self-Care and Inner Peace

Caregivers frequently put their own needs last. However, prioritizing self-care through meditation allows them to recharge and regain clarity, ensuring they are in the best possible state to help their loved one.

Simple Meditation Techniques for Patients and Caregivers

Starting a meditation practice doesn’t require hours of dedication. Here are a few easy mindfulness techniques that patients and caregivers can incorporate into their daily routine:

1. Guided Meditation

Listening to a meditation app like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer can provide structured guidance for relaxation and stress relief. Many cancer centers also offer recorded meditations tailored for oncology patients or referrals to local organizations that hold sessions.

2. Deep Breathing Exercises

Practicing diaphragmatic breathing (deep belly breathing) for just 5-10 minutes a day can help regulate the nervous system and lower stress. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8) to promote relaxation.

3. Body Scan Meditation

This technique involves focusing on different areas of the body, releasing tension, and noticing physical sensations. Studies from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggest that body scan meditation can help with pain perception and relaxation in cancer patients.

4. Jin Shin Jyutsu Energy Healing

Jin Shin Jyutsu, a simple yet powerful energy healing technique, involves placing the hands on specific points of the body to restore balance. It can be used alongside meditation to help relieve stress and promote well-being.

Incorporating Meditation into Care

Many hospitals and cancer treatment centers now recognize mindfulness-based interventions as valuable complementary therapies. Patients and caregivers interested in incorporating meditation into their cancer care plan should speak with their oncology team, social workers, or integrative medicine specialists to explore available programs and resources.

Organizations such as The Elixir Fund offer meditation workshops designed specifically for cancer patients and caregivers.

Join HHO for a Guided Meditation

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, we believe in providing holistic support for our patients and their families. If you’d like to experience the benefits of meditation firsthand, we invite you to join us on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the Hunterdon Medical Center Auditorium (2100 Wescott Drive, Flemington, NJ 08822) for a special guided meditation session led by Meg McQuarrie, Executive Director of The Elixir Fund.

This in-person event will introduce attendees to breath work, guided meditation, and a simple Jin Shin Jyutsu exercise to help relieve stress and promote healing.

Reserve your spot today at: www.hhocancer.com/event-registration/

Final Thoughts

A daily meditation practice can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and stress reduction during cancer treatment. Whether you are a patient, a survivor, or a caregiver, taking time for mindfulness can significantly improve your overall well-being. By incorporating meditation into your routine, you can foster resilience, inner peace, and a sense of control throughout your journey.

Would you like to learn more about meditation and other wellness resources for cancer patients? Visit our blog regularly or follow us on social media for more upcoming events and support programs!

Exploring the Use of Medicinal Cannabis for Cancer Patients: Pain Relief, Symptom Management, and More

In recent years, medicinal marijuana has gained attention as a complementary therapy for integrated oncology treatment plans, offering potential benefits for symptom management and enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. Integrating cannabis into modern treatment plans requires a thorough understanding of its applications, administration methods, and the latest findings.

Understanding Medicinal Marijuana in Oncology

Medicinal marijuana, also known as medical cannabis, refers to the use of the Cannabis sativa plant and its cannabinoids—primarily tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD)—for therapeutic purposes. In the context of cancer care, cannabis has been explored for its potential to alleviate various cancer-related symptoms and treatment side effects.

Applications of Cannabis in Cancer Care

1. Pain Management

Chronic pain is a common issue among cancer patients. Cannabinoids have shown promise in providing analgesic effects, potentially offering relief when conventional pain medications are insufficient. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that cannabis-based medicines may be effective in managing cancer-related pain.

2. Nausea and Vomiting Control

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) significantly impact patients’ quality of life. Cannabis-based medications have been found effective in reducing these symptoms, especially in cases unresponsive to standard antiemetics. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) acknowledges that cannabinoids may help treat nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy.

3. Appetite Stimulation

Cancer and its treatments often lead to anorexia and weight loss. Cannabis has been associated with appetite stimulation, which can help counteract weight loss in cancer patients. The American Cancer Society notes that cannabinoids may help improve appetite in patients undergoing cancer treatment.

4. Mood and Sleep Improvement

Anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances are prevalent among cancer patients. Some studies suggest that cannabinoids may have anxiolytic and sedative properties, potentially improving mood and sleep quality. However, more research is needed to fully understand these effects.

Administration Methods

Medicinal cannabis can be administered through various methods, each with its own onset time and duration of effects:

Oral Ingestion: Cannabis-infused edibles, capsules, or oils are ingested orally, leading to slower onset but longer-lasting effects. However, dosing can be challenging due to variability in absorption and metabolism.
Inhalation: Vaporizing cannabis allows for rapid onset of effects. However, smoking is generally not recommended due to potential respiratory risks.
Sublingual Administration: Tinctures or sprays applied under the tongue offer relatively quick absorption and onset of effects, providing an alternative to inhalation.
Topical Application: Cannabis-infused creams or balms can be applied directly to the skin to target localized pain or inflammation, though systemic effects are minimal.

Considerations and Precautions

While medicinal marijuana presents potential benefits, it is essential to consider possible side effects and interactions:

Psychoactive Effects: THC, the primary psychoactive component, can cause euphoria, dizziness, or anxiety in some individuals. Starting with low doses and titrating slowly can help mitigate these effects.
Cognitive Impairment: Long-term use of cannabis has been associated with cognitive impairments, including memory and attention deficits. Patients should be monitored regularly to assess cognitive function.
Drug Interactions: Cannabinoids may interact with other medications metabolized by the liver. It is crucial to consult with healthcare providers to evaluate potential interactions.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations: The legal status of medicinal marijuana varies by region. Patients and providers must be aware of local regulations to ensure compliance.

Integrating medicinal marijuana into oncology treatment plans offers a promising avenue for enhancing patient care. However, it requires careful consideration of individual patient needs, potential benefits, and risks. Collaboration between patients and healthcare providers is essential to develop personalized, safe, and effective treatment strategies.

Hunterdon Hematology Oncology remains committed to providing our patients and community with the latest information on innovative cancer care options. Working closely with Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, we offer educational support events to empower patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with valuable knowledge. A recent example is our Medicinal Cannabis session, led by Nancy Scanlon, Pharm D., our Pharmacy Manager and a certified expert in Cannabis Healthcare & Medicine (view the recording here). Events like these ensure that our community has access to evidence-based discussions on emerging therapies, helping patients make informed decisions about their care. Stay connected with us for future events and resources designed to support you and your loved ones on your journey.

Colon Cancer on the Rise in Young Adults: What You Need to Know

In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged in the world of cancer care: an increasing number of young adults are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Traditionally viewed as a disease affecting older adults, recent data shows that individuals born after 1990 are at a significantly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer compared to previous generations. This unsettling trend calls for greater awareness and proactive steps to address the issue.

Key Takeaways:

Rising Incidence: Young adults are experiencing a sharp increase in colorectal cancer cases. Studies reveal that individuals born in 1990 are twice as likely to develop colon cancer and four times more likely to develop rectal cancer than those born in 1950.
Possible Causes: Factors such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and disruptions in gut health may contribute to this increase. Additionally, a lack of routine screening among younger individuals has delayed early detection in many cases.
Importance of Early Screening: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force now recommends colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45 for individuals at average risk. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.

What Can You Do?

Maintain a healthy lifestyle, stay informed about your family history, and be aware of symptoms like rectal bleeding or persistent abdominal pain. If you’re eligible, schedule a screening to detect potential issues early.

By raising awareness and making informed lifestyle choices, we can combat this troubling trend and protect the health of younger generations.

Read the full editorial feature in the 2025 NJ Top Docs issue of Healthy Living Magazine or here in this post on our website.

In recent years, a startling trend has emerged within the realm of oncology: a growing number of younger individuals are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Specifically, those born after 1990 are seeing an unprecedented rise in cases, which has become a cause for concern within the medical community. Once considered a disease primarily affecting older adults, colorectal cancer is now shifting demographics, and the reasons behind this shift are as complex as they are alarming.

An Unsettling Rise in Numbers

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer rates have been declining overall in the United States, primarily due to increased awareness, improved screening methods, and advancements in treatment. However, this decline is not universal. The incidence of colorectal cancer among individuals under the age of 50 has been steadily rising. In fact, for those born around 1990, the risk of developing colorectal cancer is twice as high as those born in 1950, and their risk of rectal cancer is quadruple.

This shift is especially concerning given that colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States, and it remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths. While older adults continue to be the most affected group, the sharp rise in diagnoses among younger adults suggests that new factors are at play.

Understanding the Causes

While there is no single definitive explanation for this uptick in cases, researchers have identified several possible contributing factors that may be fueling this trend:

Diet and Lifestyle Changes: Western diets, characterized by high consumption of processed meats, red meat, and refined grains, have long been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Over the past several decades, dietary habits have shifted, particularly with the increased availability of highly processed, low-fiber foods. Studies have shown that diets high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, while a lack of these foods may contribute to a higher risk.
Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyles: The rates of obesity have dramatically increased in younger populations, and obesity is a well-established risk factor for colorectal cancer. Excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, is thought to cause inflammation and hormonal changes that can promote cancer growth. Coupled with sedentary lifestyles, the lack of regular physical activity may further contribute to the rising incidence in younger adults.
Gut Microbiome and Inflammation: The gut microbiome— the trillions of bacteria and microorganisms living in the digestive tract—plays a critical role in overall health, including cancer prevention. Disruptions in the microbiome, often due to poor diet, antibiotic use, or other environmental factors, may lead to increased inflammation, which is a known precursor to cancer development. Research is still ongoing, but this connection could help explain why younger adults are increasingly affected by colorectal cancer.
Delayed Screening and Lack of Awareness: Traditionally, routine colorectal cancer screening is recommended starting at age 45 for those at average risk. However, because colon cancer has been viewed as a disease of older adults, many younger individuals and healthcare providers may not suspect or prioritize screening in this age group. As a result, symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits may be overlooked or attributed to other causes, leading to later-stage diagnoses.

Changing the Narrative Around Screening

Recognizing the increasing prevalence of colorectal cancer in younger individuals, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently updated their guidelines to lower the recommended screening age from 50 to 45 for individuals at average risk. This change is significant and aimed at identifying cases earlier when the cancer is more treatable. However, despite this shift, awareness remains a critical issue.

For younger people, especially those with no family history of colorectal cancer, the idea of screening may still seem distant or unnecessary. However, the rising incidence underscores the need for greater vigilance in recognizing symptoms and being proactive about screening, particularly for those who may be at higher risk.

What Can Be Done?

While more research is needed to fully understand why colorectal cancer is increasing in younger populations, there are clear steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk:

Maintain a healthy diet: Prioritize a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reducing the consumption of processed foods and red meat can also help lower cancer risk.
Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, as regular exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
Know your family history: If colorectal cancer runs in your family, you may need to start screening earlier than the general population. Speak with your healthcare provider about personalized screening recommendations.
Pay attention to symptoms: Rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits should never be ignored, regardless of age. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional.

The Road Ahead

As the medical community continues to grapple with the growing incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults, it’s crucial that both healthcare providers and patients remain aware of the changing dynamics of this disease. Early detection through timely screening, coupled with lifestyle modifications, offers the best hope for reducing the impact of this concerning trend.

By raising awareness and addressing risk factors head-on, we can work toward a future where colorectal cancer no longer claims the lives of so many young individuals. It’s a challenge that demands attention, but with the right strategies in place, it’s one we can meet head-on.

Editorial feature from the 2025 NJ Top Docs Issue of Healthy Living Magazine

10 Must-Know Facts About Cervical Cancer

This past year, an estimated 14,100 women in the United States were diagnosed with invasive cervical cancer, yet it is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer in women between the ages of 35 and 44 worldwide.

Cervical cancer affects the cervix, and the most common cause is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection. Cervical cancer can often be found early, and sometimes even prevented, by having regular screening tests. If detected early, cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable cancers.

As January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, here are the top 10 key facts and statistics you need to know about cervical cancer:

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with an estimated 570,000 new cases and 311,000 deaths in 2020.
HPV is mainly transmitted through sexual contact and most people are infected with HPV shortly after the onset of sexual activity. More than 90% of them clear the infection eventually.
Cervical cancer is more common in women who smoke, have multiple sexual partners, or have a weakened immune system.
Women living with HIV are 6 times more likely to develop cervical cancer compared to women without HIV.
Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccinations, practicing safe sex, quitting smoking, and getting regular cancer screenings, such as Pap tests or HPV tests.
Currently available vaccines are intended to produce immunity to HPV types that cause about 90% of cervical cancers. Two main HPV types are responsible for nearly 50% of high grade cervical pre-cancers.
Symptoms of cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during sex, and abnormal discharge.
Treatment options for cervical cancer may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
The 5-year survival rate for cervical cancer is 92% for cases detected at the earliest stage (stage 0 or stage 1). This drops to 57% for stage 2, 17% for stage 3, and 9% for stage 4.
Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women in many developing countries, but is much less common in developed countries due to widespread access to screening and vaccination. Cervical cancer disproportionately affects women of lower socio-economic status and those who lack access to healthcare.

At Hunterdon Hematology Oncology, we are a community oncology practice holding continuous education and information sharing as a top priority. WHO practices integrative oncology, using complementary techniques to improve quality of life and help our patients manage the journey through cancer treatment.

To find out more about cervical cancer, book a screening test, or arrange a consultation, call the HHO team in Flemington, New Jersey at 908-237-1201 or schedule an appointment online.

When you have cancer, immunotherapy is one of the cutting-edge treatment options you have. There are many different forms of immunotherapy, and each one works to find invasive cancer cells and destroy them. Each form of immunotherapy can help different types of cancer.

At Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology, our expert team of five oncologists and hematologists offers state-of-the-art treatments for just about every form of cancer. The team is proud to provide immunotherapy as an option for many of our cancer patients who are looking for hope during their fight with cancer.

What is immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a modern technology that uses your immune system to fight off certain types of cancer and cancer cells. It can either boost the overall health of your immune system or help it work more efficiently.

Immunotherapy has been used to treat various types of cancer. The team at Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology use this form of therapy to treat cancers such as:

Lymphoma
Liver cancer
Stomach cancer
Cervical cancer
Bladder cancer

It’s also used for head and neck cancers, along with colon cancer and prostate cancer. While immunotherapy is a very versatile treatment, it’s not for everyone. Our team helps you determine if this is a viable treatment option for your specific condition.

What are the different types of immunotherapy?

There are many forms of immunotherapy, each of which works differently to enhance your immune system’s ability to seek out and destroy cancer cells. The forms of immunotherapy our team offers include:

T-cell transfer therapy

This form of immunotherapy helps your T-cells find and kill cancer cells more easily. Our doctors extract powerful immune cells that are attached to your tumor or cancer cells. They then take them to the lab, and find the strongest T-cells. The team multiplies these cells in the lab, and injects them back into the tumor to destroy it.

Monoclonal antibodies

Antibodies are made by your immune system to find and destroy antigens, or invaders in your body. Monoclonal antibodies are made in a lab, specifically for the antigens that are attached to cancer cells. Once they attach to the cancer antigens, your immune system can find and destroy those cells.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors

Immune checkpoints are in place to keep your immune system from attacking healthy cells when fighting off an invader. However, cancer cells sometimes turn these checkpoints on where they shouldn’t be, allowing the cells to spread.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors are treatments that turn off some of your immune system’s checkpoints, which allows it to seek out the cancer cells and destroy them.

Treatment vaccines

Cancer vaccines are similar to the other vaccines you receive for things like the flu or tetanus, which helps prevent these illnesses. Treatment vaccines use proteins from cancer cells or dead cancer cells to trigger an immune response from your body.

Immune system modulators

This form of immunotherapy basically gives your immune system a large boost. This works, because a strong immune system works better to fight off invaders, such as cancer cells. Examples of immune system modulators or interleukins and interferons.

Each form of immunotherapy works differently on your body to fight off tumors or cancer cells. The specific type of immunotherapy you need depends on your overall health, the type of cancer you have, and what other treatments you’ve tried.

Is everyone a candidate for immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy is a modern treatment option for those needing new hope in their cancer treatment. However, it’s not made for every case of cancer. You may be considered for immunotherapy if you have:

Advanced cancer
Exhausted other treatment options
Non-small cell lung cancer
Biomarkers positive for PD-L1
High tumor mutational burden
High microsatellite instability

There are a lot of up-and-coming cancer treatments, many of which our team offers to you. If you’re struggling with cancer, the team at Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology provides expert immunotherapy consults to determine what the best course of treatment is for your type and stage of cancer.

If you’d like to learn more about how immunotherapy can help you, don’t hesitate to call our office in Flemington, New Jersey at 908-788-6461, or schedule an appointment online with one of our expert doctors today.

Bruising is common when you’ve suffered an injury. It’s essentially broken blood vessels beneath your skin, which leads to bleeding within the tissues. This leaves a blue or purple mark, which is the bruise. However, if you’re noticing bruises and aren’t sure where they came from, it could be a sign of a blood disorder.

At Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology, our team determines if your bruises are cause for concern. Our expert team is made up of five board-certified and experienced oncologists and hematologists. Together, they provide treatment for cancer and blood disorders.

What are blood disorders?

A blood disorder occurs when something prevents your blood cells from doing their assigned jobs. These disorders vary; some cause more bleeding than normal and others cause issues with blood clotting.

Blood disorders are often genetic, meaning you inherit them from a close relative. However, they also occur due to certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, or other diseases. In most instances, people with blood disorders live normal lives while managing the condition.

There are several different types of blood disorders, which are categorized by which part of your blood is affected. Three of the main categories of blood disorders include:

1. White blood cell disorders

If you’re healthy, your body produces billions of white blood cells every day. They’re mainly produced in your bone marrow, and they help fight off infection and disease.

Leukopenia is a blood disorder characterized by extremely low levels of white blood cells. This puts you at a high risk for infection. Leukocytosis involves having too many white blood cells.

2. Red blood cell disorders

Red blood cells are vital, because they transport oxygen throughout your body. With red blood cell disorders, some part of the cell isn’t functioning properly, which can lead to decreased oxygenation in your body. Examples of these blood disorders include sickle cell anemia and thalassemia.

3. Platelet disorders

Platelets are important because they play a huge role in the clotting cascade. This basically means they form clots when you’re injured to stop bleeding. These types of blood disorders aren’t common, but they cause problems with bleeding.

Is easy bruising a cause for concern?

Most bruising shouldn’t send up a red flag that there’s a problem, especially if you remember hitting the area on something. If your bruise seems to get better after a few days and is showing signs of healing, there also isn’t much need to worry.

If you’re noticing quite a few bruises that don’t seem to add up, you shouldn’t dismiss them right away. This is especially true if the bruises are on your face, abdomen, or back. These are unusual areas to get bruised without remembering the cause.

Bruising can happen for a number of reasons, including some blood disorders. The blood disorders that cause this problem include:

Von Willebrand disease

Von Willebrand is a specific protein in your blood that’s essential for clotting. The Von Willebrand protein attaches to platelets and helps them stick to each other to stop bleeding. Without the protein, or if it’s defective, you won’t clot as quickly, which can lead to easy bruising.

Hemophilia

Hemophilia is another blood disorder that’s caused by defective clotting in your blood. This disorder is inherited, and is caused by lower-than-normal levels of either factor VIII clotting factor or factor IX clotting factor.

Thrombocytopenia

This blood disorder happens when you don’t have enough platelets in your blood for clotting. If you have easy bruising that pops up more than usual, thrombocytopenia could be to blame.

When to seek treatment for bruising

Bruises that seem to pop up all over your body with no known cause should be a reason for concern. This is especially true if they don’t seem to be getting better on their own after more than a few days.

The team at Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology wants to see you if you have any of the following concerns:

Bruising continues to come back
No improvement in the bruising after a week
The bruise is extremely large
The bruises are unprovoked
Bruises are accompanied by unexplained nosebleeds

The good news is that blood disorders can be managed through a number of therapies and treatments. Our team bases your treatment on the specific type of blood disorder you have.

For clotting disorders, the best treatment is to replace the factors that are missing in your blood. You may need infusions of factor VIII or factor IX for hemophilia, or Desmopressin Acetate for Von Willebrand disease.

If you’re worried about bruising on your body, don’t hesitate to call our office in Flemington, New Jersey at 908-788-6461, or schedule an appointment online with one of our expert doctors today.

Have you ever wondered where all of the cancer treatments that are available to you came from? All of these treatments were once a clinical trial, which allowed their effectiveness and safety to be determined on a small population. There are constantly new trials going on, and joining one can benefit you in a number of ways.

At Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology, the team helps you get the expert treatment you need when you’re suffering from cancer or blood disorders. Leading our team are five highly trained board-certified oncologists and hematologists who are happy to offer the latest clinical trials for a number of disorders.

What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are basically research studies conducted on humans to determine the efficacy of a treatment or medical device. These studies are the main way researchers determine if a treatment is viable and safe to use in the general population.

However, clinical trials also go through several stages before the treatment is available to everyone. This not only ensures that the treatment is safe, but also that it’s effective for the condition included in the trial.

There are four official phases that every clinical trial needs to go through to become approved by the FDA. The first phase determines the safety and any side effects on a small group of people. The second phase involves more people, and aims to determine the effectiveness of the treatment, along with continuing to assess safety and side effects.

When the trial gets into stage three, it’s made available to a larger group of people, along with other populations. Dosages of a medication are also studied, along with combinations of the trial drug and other treatments. If the FDA determines that the trial has shown positive results, the treatment becomes approved for use.

Phase four happens after the FDA approves the medication or treatment in the trial. The effectiveness of the treatment, along with its safety, are still monitored on a much larger and more diverse population.

When to consider a clinical trial

Being a part of a clinical trial can be scary — but it can also open doors to treatments that could potentially change your life. But when should you consider joining one of these trials?

A good time to consider a clinical trial is when other treatments haven’t worked, and you don’t have other options. A clinical trial can give you the opportunity to try an up-and-coming treatment for your condition.

Sometimes, there aren’t any treatments available for a specific condition. A clinical trial gives you a chance at finding a viable treatment for your condition. It also gives you a chance to take your health into your own hands.

What are the benefits of a clinical trial?

There are a number of benefits when joining a clinical trial, but it’s important to weigh both the pros and cons before getting involved. Our team helps you find clinical trials that pertain to your condition and provide you with all the details to assist you with a decision.

Clinical trials offer many opportunities for a number of different cancer conditions. Some of the main benefits of joining one of these trials include:

Early access to the latest therapies

Clinical trials offer the most up-and-coming treatments that aren’t available to the public yet. If you join a clinical trial, you’ll get to experience the latest therapies and medications that could change the course of your cancer.

You get to help others

When you participate in a clinical trial, you have the opportunity to pave the way for future patients with the same medical problem. You’re a part of groundbreaking research that could provide a cure or effective therapy for others down the road.

More frequent checkups and care

You’re often more closely monitored when you participate in a clinical trial. This is because the research team needs to observe the way the medication or therapy is affecting your condition. This includes more frequent appointments and imaging studies, which can help to put your mind at ease.

Less cost to you

In most cases, you won’t have to pay for the drugs in your clinical trial. The team conducting the trial often covers the cost of the medication or therapy being tested. However, it’s important to remember that there could be other costs involved, such as travel or lodging, that you’ll need to cover.

If you’d like to learn more about participating in a clinical trial, call our office in Flemington, New Jersey at 908-788-6461, or schedule an appointment online with one of our expert doctors today.

Clinical trials exist for many different types of medical treatments and products. These trials are a way for doctors and patients to test the most up-to-date and state-of-the-art treatments available for a disease. Cancer clinical trials are a way for you to participate in a study while possibly improving your condition.

At Hunterdon Oncology and Hematology, our team offers a variety of clinical trials for several different types of cancer. Our practice is led by five highly trained oncologists and hematologists. Our physicians are happy to help you get started in a clinical trial specific to your form of cancer if you qualify.

What are clinical trials?

Clinical trials are research studies that involve human participants and are designed to study the effects of treatments on a certain population. The goal of the clinical trial is to evaluate how effective the drug or treatment is on the participants’ specific condition and overall health.

Clinical trials involve volunteers, meaning you sign up on your own to participate. There are often certain criteria you have to meet to be a part of such a trial. These studies are designed to test a number of different interventions in medicine, including:

Medical devices
Radiology procedures
Medications
Surgical procedures

Biological procedures and cells are other types of treatments that are involved in clinical trials. Cancer research uses clinical trials to study the outcomes of new treatments on different types of cancer. This helps to determine if a medical treatment has positive outcomes for these individuals.

Why are clinical trials important?

Clinical trials are vital to the improvement of the healthcare system. These trials allow for possible improvements in treatments and therapies for thousands of different diseases, including cancer.

Without clinical trials, medicine wouldn’t be able to move forward, with new and improved treatment options. The trials allow for potential cures, and for an overall improved outcome of millions of patients across the country.

These trials also allow us to see if the benefits of a potential treatment outweigh the side effects or risks. The different phases of clinical trials determine the side effects among a large group of people, to see if the treatment is worth it in the end.

If you’re suffering from a specific type of cancer, a clinical trial could be a way for you to get a new type of treatment when others haven’t helped. It gives you a chance to get the newest treatments available when the trial is focused on your type of cancer.

The different phases of clinical trials

Clinical trials go through several different phases before the treatment can be considered for approval for large-scale use. Each phase uses volunteers to test out the treatment and to determine if it’s safe for use. The four phases that clinical trials go through include:

Phase 1

The first phase of a clinical trial is to ensure first and foremost that the drug or treatment is safe for humans. It allows the researchers to determine a safe dosage for medications, and to learn how the treatment works within your body. This phase also identifies any adverse effects, and only involves a small number of participants.

Phase 2

Once the drug or treatment is determined to be safe, it can move into phase two of the trial. This phase is similar to phase one, but it requires a larger number of participants. This helps to determine the adverse effects on a larger number of people, to determine if the treatment is viable.

Phase 3

After the second phase has been completed, and the treatment is still being considered for widespread use, phase three of the clinical trial begins. In this stage, the drug or treatment is studied on a much larger scale. It involves many more participants, and is conducted in other regions and other countries. This is often the phase that occurs right before the treatment is considered for approval.

Phase 4

This phase occurs after the treatment or drug has been approved for use by a governing body, such as the FDA. Even though it’s been approved for use, there still may be aspects that need to be studied on more people over a longer timeframe. It can involve thousands of participants, and allows for more research into important information that still needs to be learned about the treatment.

At our facility, our team offers a number of different clinical trials if you suffer from conditions such as multiple myeloma, myelofibrosis, and polycythemia vera. Our doctors help you figure out if a clinical trial could help you.

If you’re interested in learning more about clinical trials for your condition, call our office in Flemington, New Jersey at 908-788-6461, or schedule an appointment online with one of our expert doctors today.

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