Ignoring the problem is not a solution
Cancer can be prevented
“A healthy person has hope, and a person with hope has everything”
(folk wisdom)
Dear patient,
Throughout human history, spiritual leaders, scientists, and cultural figures have asserted that health is the most important asset of a person. Unfortunately, by the beginning of the third millennium, we are faced with a real strategic threat in the form of deadly cancers, which have become the most prevalent cause of mortality in the modern world, surpassing even cardiovascular diseases. Preventive medicine is a key factor in maintaining health, especially when it comes to cancer. A healthy lifestyle and reducing risk factors significantly lower the risk of developing the disease. In addition, early detection of any type of cancer helps to significantly reduce mortality (in some cases by up to 90%), greatly increases treatment effectiveness, lowers treatment costs, and positively affects the quality of life of patients.
These goals were pursued by the founders of the Comprehensive Center for Early Diagnosis and Prevention of Cancer. The center is the first of its kind in the country and one of the few in the world offering a comprehensive program to combat cancer, which is conducted in five areas:
Diagnosis and early detection
A series of medical examinations aimed at early detection and prevention of about a dozen common types of cancer (oral cavity cancer, skin cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, and lymph node enlargement).
Individual consultations
Providing personal consultations on nutrition, habits, and lifestyle changes aimed at minimizing risk factors leading to disease development.
Personal genetic profile
It is already known today that the risk of developing cancer is determined by our genetic profile in conjunction with lifestyle. In the future, a personal genetic profile may help predict the risk of developing cancer in a specific individual. As part of the assessment, we create a family tree for each patient, which can help predict individual risk for malignant tumors in the future. In complex situations, we provide detailed individual genetic counseling. Additionally, we consider specific genetic changes that may indicate the risk of developing colorectal cancer. In the near future, we will also be able to test genes associated with other types of tumors in this way.
Clinical research
Center staff participate in international multicenter clinical trials aimed at prevention, early detection, and finding treatments for various types of cancer. The studies are conducted in collaboration with start-up companies from Israel and the European Union, as well as with the participation of the MD Anderson Medical Center in the USA, which is the largest cancer center in the world.
Educational program
“Life Without Cancer”
The center operates in several directions to raise awareness about cancer, the importance of early detection, and the significance of a healthy lifestyle among various sectors of the population.
The multidisciplinary team of specialists at the center includes doctors with various narrow specialties in oncology, clinical researchers, clinical dietitians, and administrative staff. The center also has a molecular biology laboratory, computerized imaging and diagnostic tools, laboratory equipment, and the most advanced medical devices.
Who can use the center's services?
The center is intended for healthy individuals who are at risk based on the following parameters: age, genetics, smoking, obesity, frequent or prolonged sun exposure, exposure to chemicals, high alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and so on. The center is also intended for individuals with a family history of cancer who are at increased risk and therefore should be under specialized medical supervision from an early age.
How is the diagnosis conducted?
Upon arrival at the center, you will be asked to fill out a series of detailed questionnaires about your health, medications, vitamins, dietary habits, exposure to various substances, and information about your lifestyle, in order to obtain a complete and accurate picture of various risk factors that may apply to you. After completing the questionnaire, there will be a personal conversation, and the senior physician at the center will conduct a physical examination to detect precancerous signs. You will then be asked to undergo several diagnostic and imaging tests, as necessary and according to the specific case:
-
Blood draw for comprehensive laboratory tests, including:
-
complete blood test profile, including liver and kidney functions, cholesterol, triglycerides, and thyroid function (TSH);
-
C-reactive protein test, which predicts the development of atherosclerosis (causing cardiovascular diseases), autoimmune diseases, cancer, and degenerative diseases.
After the blood draw, you will receive a light breakfast.
-
Blood pressure and pulse (on both arms).
-
Meeting with a clinical dietitian for lifestyle change consultation and recommendations for proper nutrition for cancer prevention. Checking BMI and body fat percentage.
-
Consultation with a cancer prevention specialist and review of personal risk factors for various types of cancer.
-
Identification of potential risk factors for colorectal cancer and recommendation of the optimal diagnostic test, usually a colonoscopy. Since this examination requires preparation, it cannot be performed on the same day. If possible, Professor Arber will conduct the examination personally, provided the necessary documentation is provided (commitment to payment from the health fund).
-
Blood test for genetic changes, such as the APC gene, the presence of which may increase the risk of gastrointestinal cancer.
-
Early detection of lung cancer (in heavy smokers) – low-dose chest CT (after discussing the benefits and drawbacks of the test with the patient).
-
Early detection of oral cavity cancer – medical examination by a specialist in oral diseases.
-
Early detection of thyroid cancer – medical examination and, if necessary, referral for neck ultrasound.
-
Skin cancer prevention – medical examination by a plastic surgery expert using a dermatoscope.
For women only:
-
Early detection of breast cancer – manual breast examination by a specialist and mammography.
-
Early detection of uterine and ovarian cancer – pelvic ultrasound.
-
Cervical cancer prevention – Pap smear conducted by a qualified gynecologist. If necessary – referral for HPV vaccination.
For men only:
-
Early detection of testicular cancer – manual examination conducted by a urologist or surgeon, if necessary – referral for scrotal ultrasound.
-
Early detection of prostate cancer – rectal examination conducted by a urologist or surgeon, and PSA test for men over 40 years old.
-
Feedback and documentation of results for further monitoring.
-
If necessary, a consultation with a specialist will be provided: oncologist, neurosurgeon, and radiologists.
-
The senior physician of the Comprehensive Center will prepare a report based on the results obtained, which will be sent to the patient approximately three weeks later. If the results of one or more tests indicate the presence of precancerous or malignant processes, you will be referred to a specialist in one of the departments of the medical center, according to the type of oncology found. These specialists will accompany you until complete recovery.
Improve your quality of life. Get regular check-ups
Tips for maintaining your health
-
Get tested for early detection of cancer and attend regular check-ups with your doctor.
-
Engage in physical activity for at least half an hour about five days a week.
-
Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
-
Maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity.
-
Follow a moderate, balanced, and varied diet.
-
Eat six servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each day.
-
Consume more foods rich in fiber and vitamins A and C.
-
Reduce consumption of foods high in animal fats, smoked foods, salty and canned products.
-
Avoid sun exposure.
-
When in the sun, wear a hat, try to stay in the shade, and use sunscreen.
-
Pay attention to changes in your body, such as changes in stool, changes in size or shape of moles, formation of a persistent lump or ulcer, unusual bleeding, and chronic symptoms such as cough, itching, heartburn, fever, hoarseness, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, and so on.
-
Avoid exposure to known carcinogens such as benzene, asbestos, various metals, soot, tobacco products, and biological factors.
-
Get enough rest, maintain a sleep schedule, and avoid stress. And don't forget to enjoy life, as peace of mind also contributes to your health.