Cancer Education
To treat cancer effectively, we believe you must treat the whole person, body, mind, and soul. To help you learn about and deal with your disease, we offer a wide range of educational programs and support groups:Hereditary Cancer Risk Program
The Hereditary Cancer Risk Program helps individuals who are concerned about developing breast or ovarian cancer. Factors such as family history, personal history, age and reproductive history tell part of the story. Laboratory analysis of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that contribute to breast and other types of cancer add to the resources used by professionals with the Hereditary Cancer Risk Program to develop risk assessments for patients. The program provides genetic counseling, review of family and personal history, genetic testing (if appropriate), a written summary of cancer risk and interpretation of genetic testing results with options for cancer risk management, and guidelines for continued monitoring.
Individuals who may benefit from genetic testing are:
- Women 50 years old or younger who are diagnosed with breast cancer, or a family history of breast cancer before age 50
- Personal or family history of ovarian cancer (at any age)
- Personal or family history of male breast cancer
- Personal or family history of bilateral breast cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish background with personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer
Call (214) 820-9600 or 1-800-4BAYLOR for more information.
Breast Cancer Risk Assessment
Baylor provides a free breast cancer risk assessment. You can complete the form, mail it to us and we will provide your results along with a consultation if desired.
Lymphedema Treatment and Education
Lymphedema treatment and education are offered at the W.H. and Peggy Smith Baylor-Sammons Breast Center. In addition, Baylor Sammons Breast Center and Baylor Rehabilitation System offer upper extremity lymphedema treatment. The program is called Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy (CDP) treatment, a five-step treatment process that includes hygiene and topical skin products, manual lymph drainage (MLD), bandaging and compression, exercises, dietary guidelines, and patient education. For appointments, referrals, or information, call 1-800-4BAYLOR (1-800-422-9567).
Breast Health Education Programs
Baylor-Sammons Breast Center offers breast health education through community programs and one-on-one meetings with clinical coordinators. "Breast Care for a Lifetime" is a community program available at no charge that includes breast cancer statistics and risk factors, breast self-exam (BSE) instruction, mammogram and screening guidelines, prevention research, lifestyle factors, and computerized breast cancer risk assessment. To schedule a program for your group or business, call 1-800-4BAYLOR.
These services are offered through the Virginia R. Cvetko Patient Education and Conference Center and the Baylor Sammons Breast Center and the Baylor Charles A. Sammons Center.