Practical Matters

For patients with cancer receiving infusion therapy for the first time, the process may seem daunting. Cancer survivors who received treatment at the Rogel Cancer Center and infusion nurses demystify the experience by providing 10 helpful things to know ahead of time.

The pandemic may be over, but with a winter surge on the way, fewer treatments available that are effective against the latest variants and the possibility of large holiday gatherings on the horizon, COVID-19 could still easily cause problems. Here's some tips to help you keep yourself, and others, safe.

As the COVID pandemic continues, the Rogel Cancer Center -- and Michigan Medicine -- remains committed to providing safe and quality treatment. Don't be afraid to tell staff if you have COVID or COVID symptoms. We'll work with you to make sure it doesn't stop your cancer care. Don't be surprised if you're asked to have a virtual visit instead of being seen in-person. Our staff are also impacted by COVID and we are using all options to keep you safe.

The financial burden of cancer care is a growing issue. In fact, the topic has even sprouted a name to reflect its seriousness -- financial toxicity -- likening it to the toxicities of the treatments that kill cancer cells.

Rogel Cancer Center social workers and a patient navigator share how to manage the worries and constraints of living with cancer during the pandemic.

Like hospitals across the country, the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center instituted changes throughout the entire organization in the wake of COVID-19 — some visible, some behind-the-scenes — to ensure we continue to provide excellent care while protecting patients and staff.

Swollen lymph nodes, a possible side effect of the vaccine, could raise unnecessary concerns if they appear on your screening exam. Kimberly Garver, M.D., an expert on mammography, explains why waiting a few weeks after your shot to get your next mammogram may be prudent.

Cancer centers around the country, including the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, are urging people not to let routine cancer screenings lapse during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Viruses like the flu and the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 can be particularly dangerous for people with cancer. Older patients, those who have received bone marrow transplants and those receiving chemotherapy are especially at risk of becoming seriously ill since their immune systems are already weakened.

Alena Williams, MSW, a Michigan Medicine health educator, tobacco treatment specialist and clinical group facilitator at the Cancer Support Community of Greater Ann Arbor explains why quitting tobacco is so important to the health of patients and survivors.