Prevention & Detection

Research has shown that some types of cancer are preventable, while others, if detected in early stages, are curable. The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center staff and physicians are committed to educating the public on cancer prevention and early detection through educational offerings and cancer screenings.

Cancer Screenings

Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening: Through a grant from the Cancer Education Early Detection Program, free screening exams for breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancer are available to individuals who are without adequate health insurance and who meet eligibility guidelines. The program is sponsored by the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center and funded through a grant awarded by the State of NJ Department of Health and Senior Services. Call 237-5409.

Cancer Prevention Education: As part of our commitment to the health and well-being of the community, our expert clinicians are available to speak to your group, business, school, synagogue, church or organization on a variety of cancer related topics. This free service is designed to educate the community on early detection, prevention research studies, and cancer screening programs. Educational programs also detail how individuals can make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing cancer, and can practice screening techniques and prevention. To arrange for a speaker to come to your meeting or event, please call (908) 237-2330.

Prostate Cancer Screening: During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month each September, the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center conducts prostate cancer screenings and education programs. The program is offered to men between the ages of 50 and 70 who are not under the care of a urologist for prostate concerns. The screening includes a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test and a digital rectal exam (DRE) performed by a urologist. The program also is offered to men starting over the age of 35 if they are at high risk because they have family history of prostate cancer occurring at a young age.

Skin Cancer Screening: The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center offers annual skin cancer screenings and educational sessions. The program, usually held in May, offers screenings by a dermatologist who performs a skin exam to check individuals for early signs of skin cancer or suspicious moles. Anyone not under the care of a dermatologist or those who have never been examined for skin cancer are encouraged to attend. Educational sessions are offered to explain the risks of developing skin cancer and to give advice on prevention.

Oral Cancer Screening: The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center offers screening for oral cancer in April, during Dental Health Month. Individuals are offered an exam by an oral surgeon or otolaryngologist to look for signs of cancer of the mouth or lip. Education about oral cancer and its prevention is offered during the screening program.

Cancer Prevention Research

The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center participates in national cancer prevention and susceptibility studies. One such study is a breast cancer prevention study called STAR - the Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene. The study compares the drug Tamoxifen, already proven effective in prevention, with another drug, Raloxifene, to see if it is as good, or better in preventing breast cancer. Other studies are evaluating the effectiveness of measures to prevent prostate cancer. The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center also participates in studies that research genetic factors in developing cancer. Two specially trained Registered Nurses with extensive experience in research are available to answer questions about current clinical research trials and prevention trials. For more information please call (908) 237-2330.

Family Risk Assessment Program

Studies have shown that a predisposition to certain cancers may be inherited genetically. Breast, ovarian, colon, uterine, skin and prostate are some of the cancers that can be hereditary. Technological advances in genetics are revolutionizing the way medicine is practiced. Scientists are trying to understand these hereditary factors, or genes, that can influence the risk for cancer.

The Family Risk Assessment Program (FRAP) at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center is a program designed to help individuals with a family history of certain cancers understand hereditary factors that can influence their risk of cancer. FRAP is modeled after the Margaret Dyson Family Risk Assessment Program established in 1991 by Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. This multi–disciplinary cancer risk assessment and genetic counseling program is open to individuals with a family or personal history of cancer who are at least 20 years old.

The Family Risk Assessment Program includes:

  • Educational sessions about risk factors and familial patterns associated with cancer
  • A detailed evaluation of the family history
  • A description of screening tests and personalized screening recommendations
  • Instruction in self–examination
  • Genetic counseling
  • Genetic testing as appropriate
  • Genetic research studies through Fox Chase Cancer Center for eligible individuals

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing, previously available only in research, is now available commercially. However, genetic testing is not for everyone. Through the FRAP program at the Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, participants learn if they are genetically "at risk" and if testing is appropriate or beneficial to them and family members. A specially trained counselor provides support and education on the benefits and risks of testing. The counselor remains available for discussion of treatment options and communication as participants consider testing and evaluate results. For more information call (908) 237-2330.

Request a brochure about Cancer Screenings

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