Karmanos Cancer Institute Highlights Four Important Cancer Awareness Months This September

Karmanos Cancer Institute Promotes Critical Cancer Awareness

The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is stepping up its efforts in September to bring attention to four significant cancer awareness months: Blood Cancer, Gynecologic Cancer, Prostate Cancer, and Thyroid Cancer. Each of these cancers carries its own challenges, symptoms, and treatment options, and raising awareness is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma pose significant health risks. They arise from blood-forming cells and affect the bone marrow and lymphatic system, crucial components of the immune system. According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), a new blood cancer case is diagnosed every three minutes in the United States. Projections for 2025 indicate over 89,000 new lymphoma cases, alongside nearly 67,000 leukemia cases and around 36,000 myeloma diagnoses. These numbers highlight the ongoing need for targeted awareness campaigns and clear communication about risk factors and symptoms. The Hematology Oncology and Multidisciplinary Teams at Karmanos aim to provide specialized care for these patients. To learn more about blood cancers, individuals can visit karmanos.org.

Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

Gynecologic cancers, affecting various parts of the female reproductive system, include cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Each cancer type presents unique symptoms and risk factors, making it essential for patients to receive care from specialized oncologists. For instance, in 2025, the American Cancer Society (ACS) projects that 13,300 new cases of cervical cancer and 20,890 new ovarian cancer cases will be diagnosed. With complications ranging from the common to the rare, the Gynecologic Oncology team at Karmanos focuses on treatment protocols tailored to each individual's diagnosis. For more information on this vital area of cancer care, visit karmanos.org.

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Prostate cancer, which affects an organ located behind the bladder in men, remains the most common non-skin cancer impacting male reproductive health. The ACS anticipates about 313,780 new prostate cancer cases in 2025. Certain demographics, including African American men over 45 and individuals with a family history of prostate cancer, are at heightened risk. Notably, early-stage prostate cancer often displays no symptoms, underscoring the importance of regular screenings. Karmanos’ Genitourinary Oncology team provides expertise and support for those diagnosed with prostate cancer, ensuring they receive appropriate care. Additional information can be found at karmanos.org/prostatefacts.

Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month

The thyroid gland, situated at the front of the neck, plays a pivotal role in hormone production. There are four primary types of thyroid cancer: papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. Symptoms may vary but can include thyroid nodules, changes in voice, and marked weight loss. Roughly 44,020 new thyroid cancer cases are expected in 2025. It’s crucial to note that thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men. Karmanos dedicates its Head and Neck Oncology Multidisciplinary Team to support patients through specialized assessment and care for thyroid cancer.

Specialized Care at Karmanos

For individuals facing concerns over blood, gynecologic, prostate, or thyroid cancers, Karmanos Cancer Institute emphasizes the importance of seeing a specialized team that focuses solely on the specific type of cancer. The center empowers patients with access to multidisciplinary teams, including oncologists, surgeons, nurse practitioners, and genetic counselors, ensuring comprehensive, tailored treatment plans.

Furthermore, Karmanos hosts one of the nation’s most comprehensive clinical trials programs, enabling patients access to innovative cancer treatments that are still in development. These trials play a vital role in advancing cancer therapy and can offer patients options not available elsewhere.

To discover more about the groundbreaking treatment options and research at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, or to schedule an appointment, visit karmanos.org or call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266).

About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute

Founded in Detroit more than 75 years ago, the Karmanos Cancer Institute is committed to providing transformative care, pioneering research, and essential education in the fight against cancer. As part of McLaren Health Care, it has become Michigan's leading provider of cancer care, recognized by the National Cancer Institute as a comprehensive cancer center. Karmanos also partners with the Wayne State University School of Medicine, promoting cutting-edge cancer research and improving treatment standards across the board. To connect further, please reach out at 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266) or by visiting karmanos.org. Follow Karmanos on Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube for updates and resources.