Blog – Easton, PA – Salib Oncology

Is Cancer Massage Safe? What Oncology Patients in Washington Township Need to Know

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 15:45:31 GMT

Cancer massage is safe for oncology patients when performed by a therapist with specialized training and adapted to each patient's treatment plan. Patients in Washington Township, NJ, are increasingly turning to this supportive therapy alongside conventional cancer care. This article explains what oncology massage is, what the research says about its safety, and what patients should know before their first session.

Cancer Massage vs. Standard Massage

Oncology massage is not the same as a regular relaxation massage. A standard massage applies firm, even pressure across muscles for general stress relief. Oncology massage therapy is a customized approach designed around a patient's specific medical needs. Therapists adjust session length, positioning, and pressure based on factors like active treatment ports, surgical sites, radiation-sensitive skin, and bone density. The goal is to provide comfort and support without straining areas already stressed by treatment. Salib Oncology offers this specialized care for patients in Washington Township and the surrounding area.

Does Massage Spread Cancer Cells?

This is one of the most common concerns patients ask, and the answer is no. Current clinical evidence does not support the idea that massage causes cancer to spread. Oncology massage therapists are trained to avoid direct pressure on tumor sites, areas with known metastases, and any site of active radiation. When performed by a qualified practitioner following clinical protocols, oncology massage does not pose a meaningful risk of spreading cancer cells.

What Safety Guidelines Apply During Active Treatment?

Patients in active treatment should keep these guidelines in mind before a session.

Always inform your therapist if you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy so techniques can be adjusted.
Avoid massage directly over radiation treatment areas or around mediports and surgical sites.
Wait at least 24 hours after a chemotherapy infusion before receiving a massage.
Patients with low platelet counts, bone metastases, or blood clotting disorders may require additional precautions from their care team.
Get clearance from your oncologist before starting any new complementary therapy.

What Are the Benefits of Cancer Massage?

Patients receiving oncology massage in Washington Township, NJ, often report meaningful improvements in daily wellbeing. Benefits can include pain and muscle tension relief, reduced anxiety, better sleep, and decreased fatigue. Massage may also support healthier circulation and lymphatic flow, helping manage treatment-related swelling. For many patients, therapeutic touch offers emotional comfort during a period of significant physical and psychological stress. Visit the patient resources page at Salib Oncology for additional educational materials on integrative oncology support.

Do I Need a Doctor's Note Before a Session?

Most reputable oncology massage providers require patients to consult their oncologist before beginning therapy. Your care team can confirm whether massage is appropriate given your current medications, lab values, and treatment stage. Bringing a brief summary of your treatment history to your first appointment makes this coordination easier. You can find Salib Oncology on Google Maps for directions to the office.

Finding the Right Support in Washington Township

Cancer massage serving Washington Township, NJ, is offered as part of integrative oncology care, helping patients complement conventional treatments with evidence-informed comfort therapy. When choosing a provider, look for documented oncology massage training, willingness to coordinate with your medical team, and a supportive clinical environment.

If you have questions about whether this therapy is right for you, the team at Salib Oncology is ready to help. Call (610) 330-2630 to speak with the team directly.

What to Expect from Cancer Massage Therapy in Washington Township, NJ

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:07:32 GMT

Cancer massage therapy is a specialized, gentle form of bodywork designed to support people going through cancer treatment. For those seeking this care near Washington Township, NJ, knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and decide if this therapy is right for you.

What Happens During a Session?

Every session begins with a brief intake conversation covering your current treatment stage, medications, areas of sensitivity, and overall physical condition. This information shapes every decision we make.

Here is what you can typically expect:

A short health check-in to review your medical history, recent treatments, and how your body has been responding.
Careful positioning using extra cushions or bolsters to protect sensitive areas such as surgical sites, port placements, or swollen limbs.
Very light, slow strokes to help your body relax and adjust to the touch.
Gentle pressure adjusted throughout based on your comfort and feedback.
Focused work on areas of tension while avoiding contraindicated regions such as active radiation sites or areas with lymphedema risk.
Slow, calming movements at the close to ease your nervous system into rest.

How Do Therapists Adjust Techniques for Cancer Patients?

Cancer massage therapy requires therapists to modify their approach for every patient. We adapt pressure, positioning, and session duration based on your health conditions, treatment type, and how you feel on a given day. A patient undergoing active chemotherapy may benefit from a shorter, lighter session than someone in a recovery phase.

Techniques we may use include effleurage (slow, gliding strokes), lymphatic drainage movements, and supported positioning. These approaches help reduce muscle tension, ease joint stiffness, and improve circulation without stressing the body. This specialized therapy serving patients in Washington Township, NJ, is always tailored to the individual.

The Emotional Benefits of Oncology Massage

Cancer massage therapy offers more than physical relief. Compassionate, intentional touch can be deeply meaningful during a difficult time. We create a calm, quiet space where patients may experience reduced anxiety, improved mood, and a greater sense of control over their well-being.

Emotional and relaxation benefits often include:

Reduced anxiety and stress that commonly accompany active cancer treatment.
A sense of being cared for, which can help counter the isolation many patients feel during their diagnosis journey.
Improved sleep quality, which may support the body's natural healing processes.
A moment of stillness that helps patients feel more grounded between treatment appointments.

Touch, applied with skill and empathy, can communicate support in ways words sometimes cannot. Addressing the emotional side of cancer care is just as important as addressing the physical.

Ready to Learn More About Cancer Massage Serving Washington Township, NJ?

Salib Oncology/Hematology proudly serves patients in Washington Township, NJ, offering compassionate cancer massage therapy as part of a broader approach to supportive oncology care. We invite you to explore our cancer massage service page to learn more about how this therapy may benefit you or a loved one. When you are ready to take the next step, contact our team or call us at (610) 330-2630 to schedule a consultation. You can also find us and read patient experiences by visiting Salib Oncology/Hematology on Google Maps. We are here to support you every step of the way.

The Healing Benefits of Cancer Massage Therapy

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:59:47 GMT

Are you or a loved one looking for ways to ease the physical and emotional challenges of cancer treatment? Cancer massage therapy in Washington Township, NJ, offers a safe, nurturing approach designed specifically to support cancer patients throughout their healing journey. At Salib Oncology/Hematology, we recognize the unique needs of those facing cancer, and we provide tailored massage therapies that complement medical treatments to enhance overall well-being.

It has emerged as a trusted supportive care option for many patients, helping to address the side effects of treatment and improve quality of life. Unlike conventional massages, this specialized form works in harmony with oncology care to avoid risks and promote healing.

What Is Cancer Massage Therapy, and How Does It Differ From Traditional Massage?

Cancer massage therapy is a focused, therapeutic approach designed specifically for individuals undergoing cancer treatment or recovering from it. While traditional massage can be invigorating or focused on muscle recovery, It concentrates on gentle touch, safety, and the patient’s unique medical condition.

Therapists trained in cancer massage are acutely aware of issues such as fragile skin, surgical scars, lymph node removal, and areas affected by tumors. They customize techniques to avoid placing pressure on vulnerable regions while promoting relaxation and circulation. For example, lymphatic drainage—a specialized, light-touch technique—is often incorporated to reduce swelling and support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

This thoughtful approach makes cancer massage therapy in Washington Township, NJ, an ideal choice to complement your oncology care without interfering with medical protocols or exacerbating symptoms

Physical Benefits: Easing Pain, Reducing Swelling, and Boosting Circulation

One of the most profound benefits of cancer massage therapy is its ability to reduce pain—a common and often debilitating symptom for those undergoing cancer treatment. Muscle tension, joint pain, and neuropathy from chemotherapy are frequent challenges.

Patients receiving cancer massage therapy often experience a significant decrease in discomfort, thanks to techniques that ease muscle tightness and stimulate release of built-up tension. This relief can be a crucial factor in helping patients maintain mobility and comfort throughout rigorous treatment schedules.

In addition to pain relief, improved circulation is a key physical benefit. Increased blood flow delivers essential oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues, which supports the healing process. Enhanced circulation can also facilitate the reduction of inflammation and promote the body’s natural detox mechanisms.

Cancer massage therapy often includes careful lymphatic drainage, helping to reduce swelling or lymphedema—especially important for patients who have undergone lymph node removal. By gently encouraging the movement of lymph fluid, the therapy can minimize discomfort and prevent complications.

Emotional and Psychological Benefits: Combating Anxiety, Depression, and Sleep Disturbances

Cancer isn’t just a physical battle; it takes an emotional toll as well. Anxiety, depression, and fear frequently accompany a cancer diagnosis and treatment phase. Here, cancer massage therapy provides essential emotional support by fostering a calming environment and promoting the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.

Many patients notice a significant reduction in anxiety and stress after a therapy session. The nurturing touch and focused care create a grounded sense of well-being, helping patients regain emotional balance.

Additionally, cancer massage therapy is known to improve sleep quality. Better rest accelerates the body’s healing process, supports immune function, and helps patients feel more energized throughout the day.

Integrating Cancer Massage Therapy Into Your Treatment Plan

Cancer massage therapy is increasingly recognized by oncologists and integrative medicine specialists as an effective complementary treatment. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgical interventions, consulting with your healthcare team and a qualified oncology massage therapist ensures safe integration.

At Salib Oncology/Hematology, we emphasize a multidisciplinary approach that includes it alongside medical treatments to optimize healing and enhance quality of life. We collaborate closely with patients to develop individualized plans that honor their unique needs, comfort levels, and health status.

How to Find Reliable Cancer Massage Therapy in Washington Township, NJ

Choosing the right massage therapist trained specifically in cancer massage is critical for safety and efficacy. Look for credentials such as oncology massage certification and experience working with cancer patients.

Salib Oncology/Hematology is committed to connecting patients with trusted professionals who understand the complexities of cancer care. Our network prioritizes compassionate care, careful technique, and ongoing communication with your medical providers.

If you would like guidance or referrals for cancer massage therapy in Washington Township, NJ, our team is ready to assist. We welcome your questions and are here to support every step of your healing process.

Make Cancer Massage Therapy in Washington Township, NJ, a Part of Your Healing Journey

If you’re interested in exploring it for yourself or a family member, reach out today to Salib Oncology/Hematology. Our compassionate, experienced team is here to help you heal—physically and emotionally. Schedule a consultation or ask questions by calling us at (610) 330-2630 or by visiting our contact page .

The Role That Cancer Massage Therapy Plays in Cancer Care

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 17:21:12 GMT

Cancer treatment often brings with it a host of physical and emotional challenges, but cancer massage therapy is emerging as a powerful tool to help ease those burdens. At Salib Oncology, we understand the toll that cancer can take on the body and mind, which is why exploring alternative therapies like massage is so important. This article will dive into how cancer massage therapy can reduce pain, ease stress, and improve overall well-being, offering valuable support during your journey through treatment. Whether you’re seeking relief from chemotherapy side effects or simply looking for ways to feel more comfortable, cancer massage therapy can be a vital part of your healing process.

A Closer Look at Cancer Massage Therapy

Cancer changes everything—your routines, your energy, even how your body feels day to day. That’s where cancer massage therapy steps in—not as a luxury, but as a gentle, restorative tool designed with your unique needs in mind. Unlike standard massage, this specialized therapy is carefully adapted for people undergoing cancer treatment. It considers everything from ports and surgical sites to fatigue, fragile skin, and the side effects of chemotherapy or radiation. Each session is delivered with mindful precision, offering comfort, calm, and a sense of control when you need it most.

How Cancer Massage Therapy Supports You During Treatment

During cancer treatment, even small moments of relief can make a big difference. For many patients in Washington Township, NJ, cancer massage therapy is becoming a trusted source of comfort, healing, and strength. Far more than just relaxation, this specialized therapy offers meaningful support for both body and mind. Here’s how it can play a powerful role in your care journey:

1. Reduces Pain and Discomfort

One of the most cited benefits is pain reduction. Gentle massage can relieve muscle tension, soothe sore joints, and reduce nerve pain, offering a non-pharmaceutical form of relief that enhances comfort.

2. Improves Sleep

Disrupted sleep is a common side effect of cancer treatments. Massage therapy helps calm the mind and body, promoting deeper and more restorative rest, which is essential for healing.

3. Supports Emotional Health

Cancer can take a toll on mental well-being. Massage therapy encourages the release of endorphins, the body's natural “feel-good” chemicals, helping to reduce anxiety, depression, and emotional fatigue.

4. Minimizes Nausea and Fatigue

By improving circulation and promoting relaxation, massage may help ease nausea and chronic fatigue associated with chemotherapy.

5. Enhances Body Awareness and Self-Care

Touch therapy helps patients positively reconnect with their bodies, fostering a greater sense of control and well-being during a time when much can feel uncertain.

Is Cancer Massage the Right Fit for Your Healing Journey?

It’s important to work with a therapist who is trained specifically in oncology massage. This ensures that your care is safe, informed, and responsive to your specific condition and treatment plan. Before beginning any new therapy, patients should consult their oncology team to ensure it’s an appropriate option based on their current health.

When provided by a knowledgeable therapist, cancer massage therapy is not only safe but deeply therapeutic. Many hospitals and oncology clinics now offer or refer patients to massage therapy services as part of integrative cancer care.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

Ready to explore how cancer massage therapy can support your healing journey? Contact Salib Oncology today to learn more or schedule an appointment. Call to get started with cancer massage therapy in Washington Township, NJ.

Cancer Massage in Washington Township, NJ: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Family

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 18:19:11 GMT

Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming and emotional experience for both patients and their families. Communication is key, but discussing the diagnosis with loved ones is often a difficult and sensitive task. In this article, we’ll provide some tips for navigating these tough conversations, while also exploring the benefits of stress relief options like cancer massage in Washington Township, NJ.

The Importance of Open Communication

When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it affects the entire family. It’s natural for family members to experience a range of emotions—shock, fear, anger, or even denial. While these emotions are normal, they can sometimes hinder the ability to have open and productive conversations about the diagnosis. Here are a few tips to help families better communicate during these trying times:

Be Honest but Sensitive: Share accurate information about the diagnosis but consider the emotional state of the family members. You don’t have to share everything at once; pace the conversation in a way that feels comfortable for everyone involved.
Acknowledge Emotions: Permit family members to feel their emotions, whatever they may be. Everyone needs to express themselves in a way that fosters understanding and support.
Ask for Support: Sometimes, family members don’t know how to help or what to say. Be clear about what you need, whether it’s emotional support, assistance with appointments, or even practical help around the house.

Managing Stress Through Cancer Massage in Washington Township, NJ

Alongside emotional support, physical relief from stress is crucial for both the patient and their family. Cancer massage in Washington Township, NJ offers a safe and effective way to reduce tension, manage pain, and foster relaxation. Massage therapy has been shown to improve the overall well-being of cancer patients by easing muscle soreness and improving circulation. It can also help family members reduce the stress they may feel while caring for their loved ones.

Massage provides a moment of reprieve, allowing families to recharge both mentally and physically. It's not just about physical touch; it’s about creating an environment where emotional healing can take place as well.

Supporting the Family Unit

Every family deal with cancer differently, but there are universal strategies that can help ease the burden for everyone:

Hold Regular Family Meetings: Keep everyone informed about the patient's treatment and health updates. Regular discussions can help family members feel more included in the process.
Seek Professional Help: Whether it’s consulting a counselor or getting advice from a cancer center in Easton, seeking professional guidance can provide new perspectives on handling the emotional strain.
Find Stress-Relief Methods: Beyond cancer massage, consider other stress-relief options like meditation, walking, or visiting a podiatrist in Easton, PA if foot pain adds to physical stress.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Together

While these conversations are never easy, having open lines of communication and utilizing resources like cancer massage in Washington Township, NJ can make a significant difference in managing the emotional toll of cancer. Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone. There are professionals and treatments available to help both patients and families cope effectively.

Contact Us Today!

Visit our website to learn more about how cancer massage and other supportive treatments can benefit you and your family. For additional assistance, contact us at Salib Oncology.

Cancer Nutrition

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 13:33:40 GMT

Healthy eating habits are important during and after cancer treatment.

Nutrition therapy is used to help cancer patients keep a healthy body weight, maintain strength, keep body tissue healthy, and decrease side effects both during and after treatment.

Cancer and cancer treatments may affect taste, smell, appetite , and the ability to eat enough food or absorb the nutrients from food. This can cause malnutrition , which is a condition caused by a lack of key nutrients.

Alcohol abuse and obesity may increase the risk of malnutrition.

Malnutrition can cause the patient to be weak, tired, and unable to fight infection or finish cancer treatment.

Malnutrition may be made worse if the cancer grows or spreads.

Eating the right amount of protein and calories is important for healing, fighting infection, and having enough energy.

EMS Appreciation Never Stops! When Should I Call 911 or an Ambulance?

Fri, 28 May 2021 16:50:41 GMT

When-and When Not-to Call an Ambulance

An ambulance provides transport to a hospital and enables emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to begin medical treatment on arrival, extending treatment through the ride to the medical center. It is important to remember that the rescue squad is not the only option if you require treatment and need to get to an emergency department.

There are times when you may not want to call an ambulance and find a different way to get to the hospital. When in doubt, call 911.

In many cases, treatment need not be immediate. Some areas have non-emergent transport available if you call 911 and the problem is not life or limb threatening, such as minor injuries or illness, such as a sore throat. Minor injuries and illnesses generally don’t need an ambulance, but there are always exceptions.

If you are not sure if you need an ambulance, better to call 911 and they will assist you directly.

It's National Nurses Week May 6-12, 2021

Fri, 07 May 2021 14:57:49 GMT

Let's Show Some Love to the Nurses in our Lives!

Take a moment to write about a nurse that inspires you or why you are celebrating Nurses Week in general.

These words of encouragement can go a long way for a nurse working long hours to know that they are appreciated. #NursesWeek2021

Fighting Cancer, Now COVID-19

Wed, 21 Oct 2020 13:44:53 GMT

Dr. Hayman Salib’s long history of helping patients battle cancer has provided him with special insight into the mechanism of COVID-19

Lehigh Valley Style recently published a new article written by Dr. Hayman Salib on Covid-19 and recovering cancer patients.

Hayman Salib, MD, is an accomplished oncology and hematology specialist with a long history of helping patients fight cancer. His expertise gives him special insight into the mechanism of COVID-19, whose fast spread and high infectivity took the whole world by surprise last winter. Initially assessed as a bad respiratory illness, the medical community soon found the virus caused systemic damage to the body’s organs in varying intensity. Without recovery, multi-systemic organ failure and death occur.

There are two way the virus attacks the body: systemic hypercoagulation (increased tendency for blood to clot) and inflammation. In hypercoagulation, blood levels of D-Dimers (thin slices of clots that look like apple slices) start to increase on Day One of infection. Without recovery, levels will continue rise. There is no other illness that shares this same lab result. It does not matter if the blood clot shows itself as a deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, or microinfarctions of the blood vessels in the heart, kidneys, intestines or brain.

The virus triggers other processes early on, including activation of platelets (tiny structures in blood that have a big role to stop bleeding) and megakaryocytes (the mother cell of the platelets, which resides in the bone marrow). This unique effect is the hallmark of increased coagulation of the blood. It also activates the release of protein molecules in the cells (cytokines) that fight infection, resulting in the fever and chills associated with viral infections.

A massive release of inflammatory cytokines, or cytokine storm, happens when the virus interacts with different immune cells in the blood called T-cells. Cytokine storms are very damaging to internal organs during a COVID-19 infection, including the lungs, brain, heart, kidneys and more. Although cytokine release appears in different disease states, stormy cytokines are especially damaging in COVID-19 infections. It’s like comparing a rainy day to a hurricane, which can be damaging to many houses and take many lives.

Unfortunately, the combination of increased clotability of the blood and cytokine storms raises the damaging effect of both. After many deaths from this disease, physicians started treatment early on, when symptoms first appeared, using anticoagulants and cytokine inhibitors. End organ damage from COVID-19 can last a long time, and recovery can be very slow. However, most patients who are otherwise healthy will recover from COVID-19 quickly. Patients with chronic Illnesses, including renal disease, diabetes and chronic lung conditions, need to be treated early on with anticoagulants, cytokine storm suppression and supportive care. The recent addition of Remdesivir, which adds another layer of protection, has saved many lives.

Recently it has been reported that COVID-19 recovery also results in chronic fatigue syndrome. It is something that is well documented but not well understood.

Getting to COVID-19 infection and cancer: it is conceivable that cancer patients are at risk of COVID-19 infection. Adopting the simple protective measures of face masks, hand washing and social distancing is golden advice to them and to everyone.

Dr. Hayman Salib, MD

Reduce Your Cancer Risk by Eating Plenty of Fruits and Veggies

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 13:10:42 GMT

A new study shows promising results.

There is no question that breast cancer can be a frightening diagnosis. It’s complicated even more by the fact that many of the risk factors for breast cancer – age, sex, genetic mutations, family history, etc. – are completely outside of our control. However, it’s important to remember that there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of getting breast cancer, and a new study published in the International Journal of Cancer points to an interesting and non-intuitive action you can take: increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat every day.

What the Study Says

The results are staggering: this new study found that women who routinely ate at least 5.5 servings of vegetables and fruits had a risk of breast cancer that was 11 percent lower than those who ate 2.5 or fewer servings a day. Even those women who did go on to develop breast cancer often developed tumors that were easier to treat. The study followed about 182,000 women for about 24 years on average, which is what enabled the researchers to see the trends and make the connections.

To learn more about this study, click here to read an overview from the American Institute for Cancer Research.

What This Means for You

It’s important to keep in mind that the study did not document results from dietary changes that happened overnight. The researchers found that women had to start eating right as many as 8-12 years before their diagnosis to see an effect on the type of tumor they had. The takeaway is simple: start adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet now!

Plus, getting 5.5 servings of fruits or vegetables could be easier than you think. The study defined a single serving as ½ cup of chopped or cooked fruit, 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables, or ½ cup of raw or cooked vegetables. To put this in perspective, a large banana is equal to about 1 cup of raw fruit. A typical cereal bowl (which you would use to hold salad or chopped fruit) holds about 2 cups. So, if you were to chop up a banana and put it over your cereal for breakfast, enjoy a bowl of fresh salad for lunch, snack on a small apple in the afternoon, and have a cup of cooked vegetables as the side for your dinner, you’d have about 6 servings of fruits and vegetables in the course of the day.

Remember, We’re Here to Help

Even as you add more fruits and vegetables to your diet, remember that breast cancer is in many ways outside of all of our control. Should you ever receive a diagnosis, the folks here at Salib Oncology are always here to help. We offer cutting-edge cancer therapy to improve your chances to survive and thrive well into the future. Give us a call if you ever need us.

Want a better GPA? Get checked for anemia

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 13:07:18 GMT

Are you tired and feel you can’t concentrate? Do you find yourself not being able to remember information easily?

Maybe you’re a student who’s having trouble focusing on school subjects or someone who feels tired and sleepy a lot of the time. Both could be suffering from anemia.

If you’re a student, suffering from anemia could directly impact your grade point average and ultimately your future ability to do well in school and beyond. Studies have shown that students achieve better GPAs if they sleep well and are more attentive in school. Anemia decreases their ability to do that.

Anemia is basically a decrease in the number of red cells or loss of the normal quantity of hemoglobin in the blood, and this, by default, will decrease the oxygen binding ability of the hemoglobin. All human cells depend on oxygen for survival and the worse the anemia, the wider range of clinical consequences.

Anemia is the most common cause of symptoms including feeling tired, fatigue, a lack of concentration, sleepiness, forgetfulness and an inability to retain or recall information. Having an anemia can be an early sign of iron deficiency and can cause symptoms like restless leg syndrome, where a person repeatedly kicks their legs during sleep.

It’s important to get your blood checked to make sure you don’t have an iron deficiency or anemia. For girls in middle school or high school, both anemia and iron deficiency could also mean abnormalities in the menstrual cycle.

Discovering the reason for the symptoms is important and treating the underlying reason, improving the hemoglobin ad replacing the iron in the body all adds up to more energy, attentiveness and achieving.

Our center takes the diagnosis and treatment of anemia very seriously and we work with our patients to ensure anemia doesn’t threaten their future.

What Is An Oncologist?

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 13:49:24 GMT

According to the National Cancer Institute, a Medical Oncologist is “A doctor who has special training in diagnosing and treating cancer using chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, biological therapy, and targeted therapy. A medical oncologist often is the main health care provider for someone who has cancer. A medical oncologist also gives supportive care and may coordinate treatment given by other specialists.”

An Oncologist’s primary job is managing cancer. We aren’t just chemotherapy doctors, in fact, we wear many different hats every day. During your treatment, your medical oncologist, must diagnose and assess the stage of your cancer, recommend and implement a treatment plan, and monitor your progress throughout the treatment.

Skills Your Oncologist Needs:

Advisor / Counselor – Your oncologist should explain your diagnosis, your prognosis, and the treatment options to your family.

Physician / Carer – Your oncologist needs to not only look after your cancer but also your personal needs including management of your symptoms. Most often, your oncologist is the person who will start palliative care, if needed.

Student / Researcher – Your oncologist will need to keep up to date with the latest treatments and will often be involved in testing them through clinical trials and medical research.

Manager – your oncologist is usually part of a multidisciplinary team and will often be the manager of that team

Types of Oncologists

Medical Oncologists treat cancer using chemotherapy or other medications, such as targeted therapy.

Surgical Oncologists remove tumors and nearby cancerous tissues during an operation. They will also perform certain types of biopsies.

Radiation Oncologists treats cancer using radiation therapy.

Gynecologic Oncologists treat gynecologic cancers, such as uterine and cervical cancer.

Pediatric Oncologists treat cancer in children. Some types of cancer occur most often in children and teenagers, such as brain tumors, leukemia, osteosarcoma, and Ewing’s sarcoma, but they might also appear in adults. In these cases, an adult may decide to work with a pediatric oncologist.

Hematologist Oncologist will diagnose and treat blood cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma

When you are diagnosed with cancer, it is important that you see the correct oncologist, ask your primary doctor for their recommendation. If you have questions, please call Salib Oncology today .

Medical Advancements in Fighting Cancer

Sat, 16 Apr 2016 12:49:53 GMT

WORDS BY JENNIFER LOCONTE

BEING DIAGNOSED WITH CANCER IS FRIGHTENING AND CAN CAUSE SIGNIFICANT ANXIETY AND STRESS. FINDING THE RIGHT DOCTOR CAN BE ALMOST AS DAUNTING AS THE DIAGNOSIS ITSELF.

Thankfully, a visit to Dr. Hayman Salib, a specialist in both oncology and hematology, can help ease your fears and begin a treatment plan that is specifically designed for you.

Salib specializes in the following cancers: breast cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, bleeding disorders, clotting disorders, abnormal blood count, esophageal cancer, colorectal cancer, stomach cancer, lung cancer, multiple myeloma, hemophilia, chemotherapy administration, head and neck cancers, anemia, soft-tissue tumors, bone cancers, laryngeal cancer, Hodgkin’s disease, testicular cancer, gynecologic malignancies, anal cancer and genital cancer.

“Our goal for our patients is to eliminate cancer,” says Salib. “During this process, we want to create a personalized treatment plan with little, if any, inconvenience to the patient. With innovative and advanced treatments becoming more available, there is a much more direct approach to fighting cancer and with less side effects.”

Cancer treatment has come a long way from the days of chemotherapy as the only drug available. New targeted therapies work directly to block cancer growth by interfering with specific molecules found in tumors. They can stop cancer-cell growth while stimulating the immune system to destroy these types of cells. Both breast cancer and lymphoma have seen significant improvements with targeted therapies. Several types of targeted therapies include hormone therapies, signal transduction inhibitors, angiogenesis inhibitors and immunotherapies.

As with any drug, there can be side effects. However, when compared with chemotherapy, targeted therapies usually have less, and if one type of treatment is not working well for the patient, the plan can be altered to another treatment option or even combined.

Breast, prostate, leukemia, lymphoma, lung and kidney cancers are just some of the types of cancers that have improved treatments with the use of these new targeted therapies.

Salib says that each year brings new cancer-fighting drugs, and some of the best he has seen so far are now becoming available for patients.

Fighting cancer effectively is key, but how can we prevent getting cancer in the first place?

According to Salib, living a healthful lifestyle seems to be the most effective way to prevent cancer from invading our bodies.

“Diet, exercise, not smoking and limiting sun exposure are all important factors to staying cancer-free,” he says.

He also adds that weigh loss has had a preventative effect on both colon and breast cancers. Exercise should include a combination of aerobic and weight-lifting and go hand-in-hand with eating healthful, well-balanced meals with restricted junk food and sugar. Limiting sun exposure can help decrease the risk of melanoma and other forms of skin cancer.

Additionally, at around age 50, meeting with medical providers for certain medical milestone procedures, like an annual mammogram (age 40), colonoscopy, cholesterol screening and seeing a dermatologist, is recommended.

It’s important to make all of your medical providers aware of your family history, especially where cancer is concerned. If cancer is prevalent among family members, you might consider meeting with a genetic counselor. Certain types of cancers may be linked, and genetic testing may be available if criteria are met.

There are certain types of cancer, pancreatic for example, where there are not yet a lot of treatment options. Patients should be aware of clinical trials that may be available to them. Clinical trials are necessary to continue the path toward successfully fighting those types of cancer.

Salib and his expert staff have information on all types of clinical trials and can help inform the patient of what may be available to them. There are specific criteria that a patient must meet in order to be a candidate for a clinical trial.

Salib’s practice is located in three convenient Lehigh Valley regions – Bethlehem, Easton and Phillipsburg, N.J. He is also affiliated with four area hospitals – St. Lukes, LVHN, Easton and Warren, N.J. For additional information, visit saliboncology.com.