Posted In Cancer Care News on January 02, 2025
What can I do to prevent cancer recurrence or initial diagnosis?
We are so glad you asked! Research suggests that the same evidence-based guidelines that help prevent cancer also help guard against its return and protect against additional serious illnesses like heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The choices you make each day can help reduce your cancer risk!
Recommendations include:
- Maintain a healthy weight. Keep your weight within a healthy Body Mass Index range (18.5-24.9).
- Be physically active. Studies have shown that partaking in physical activity most days of the week can reduce fear and depression, improve mood, boost self- esteem, and reduce tiredness, nausea, pain, and diarrhea. Talk to your healthcare team about an exercise plan that’s good for you.
- Eat a variety of whole grains, vegetables, fruit and beans.
- Limit fast foods and processed foods high in fat, starches or sugars.
- Resist red (beef and pork) and processed meats (bacon, hot dogs, lunch meat). Try poultry, fish, dairy, eggs and nuts.
- Regulate alcohol intake: Women should have no more than one drink per day and men should have no more than two a day.
- Skip sugary beverages: Water and unsweetened drinks are good choices. Avoid adding sugar to tea or coffee, and watch out for natural sugars in fruit juices.
- Don’t rely on nutritional supplements alone for cancer prevention. The best way to meet nutritional needs is
through diet alone; talk to your doctor if there are any supplements that may benefit you. - For new mothers, breastfeed if you can — it may lower your risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
Also:
- Do regular self-exams and get screening tests regularly.
- It’s never too late to stop smoking, using smokeless tobacco or vaping. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Protect your skin from the sun, and research the safety of getting a “fake” tan.
- Avoid infections that can contribute to cancer and get vaccinated against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus
(HPV). - Explore genetic testing with your cancer/primary care team.
- Keep your appointments with your primary care and cancer care teams.
Sources:
American Cancer Society
National Cancer Institute
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
What is body mass index (BMI)?
According to the American Cancer Society, body mass index, or BMI, is one way to look at whether a person is at a
healthy weight. BMI is a number based on your weight and height. In general, the higher the number, the more body fat a person has. BMI is often used as a screening tool to determine if your weight might be putting you at risk for health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
BMI is used to broadly define different weight groups in adults 20 years old or older.
- Underweight: BMI is less than 18.5
- Normal weight: BMI is 18.5 to 24.9
- Overweight: BMI is 25 to 29.9
- Obese: BMI is 30 or more
In adults, BMI is calculated the same way for both men and women. Find out your BMI using the American Cancer Society's BMI calculator.
Cancer screening saves lives.
Show yourself some love and start the year off by getting your recommended screenings. The below information is from the American Cancer Society.
Screening Recommendations
Ages 25 - 39
- Cervical cancer screening recommended for people with a cervix beginning at age 25.
Ages 40 - 49
- Breast cancer screening recommended beginning at age 45, with the option to begin at age 40.
- Cervical cancer screening recommended for people with a cervix.
- Colorectal cancer screening recommended for everyone beginning at age 45.
- At age 45, African American individuals should discuss prostate cancer screening with a doctor.
Ages 50+
- Breast cancer screening recommended.
- Cervical cancer screening recommended.
- People who currently smoke or used to smoke should discuss lung cancer screening with a doctor.
- Discussing prostate cancer screening with a doctor is recommended.
Cancer Support Services at MAC
TidalHealth partners with MAC to deliver cancer support services. The purpose of the program is to address the challenges of cancer and support a healthy lifestyle to help in recovery and prevent recurrence. Anyone who has had a cancer diagnosis in the past can qualify for most services.
Talking one-on-one is the best way to get started and determine which programs are right for you or how we can help.
To register for any program at MAC listed below, or to find out how to join virtually via Zoom or conference call, contact: Robin Ritchie, Cancer Survivorship Coordinator at 410-742-0505, ext. 170 or email [email protected].
Services
Information and referral
A trained community navigator can help connect clients to local and national resources and offer support.
Healthy lifestyle and stress management programs
What's Cooking?
A monthly cooking demonstration and tasting led by a registered dietitian in Classroom 3 at MAC.
- Thursday, Jan. 16, 10 – 11:15 AM
- Thursday, Feb. 20, 10 – 11:15 AM
Cancer: Thriving & Surviving
A six-week interactive workshop that offers support and tools to help people manage the challenges of cancer and
its treatment. Call Robin Ritchie at 410-742-0505, ext. 170, for details on the next session.
Gym memberships
Three-month, introductory memberships at no cost. Priority is given to those who finished treatment in the past 5 years.
Weekly
New: In-Person Support Group
A support group for patients, survivors and caregivers to share concerns and learn how others cope with diagnoses, treatment and life with cancer or its effects.
- Thursday, Jan. 9 and 23, 10 – 11:30 AM
- Thursday, Feb. 13 and 27, 10 – 11:30 AM
Tai Chi
A weekly class that uses slow movements to help build stamina, leg strength and balance.
- Mondays 1:30 - 2:30 PM in the Bradford Room at MAC.
Healing Yoga
A weekly seated class incorporating gentle movement and guided meditation, in person and on Zoom.
- Wednesdays, 1:30 – 2:30 PM in the Bradford Room at MAC
TidalHealth Resources
Financial Assistance
Please call 1-877-729-7762 (Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm) if you have questions about:
- Insurance or billing
- Applying for financial assistance
- Your hospital bill and/or your rights and obligations regarding your bill
Spiritual Care
Please call 410-543-7158 if you would like to request emotional and spiritual support and counseling during your cancer experience.
Chaplains can assist you and your family with:
- Contacting your pastor
- Directing you to the meditation room
- Arranging sacramental ministries for Catholic patients
- Completing advance directives
Cancer Institute resources
Individual counseling: Social workers offer up to three free sessions to discuss a patient’s cancer diagnosis and its impact. Please call your social worker to schedule an appointment.
Social Workers
Salisbury
- Lisa Barnes: 410-543-7209, [email protected]
- Courtney Miller: 410-912-6987, [email protected]
- Teresa Tyndall: 410-912-5670, [email protected]
Ocean Pines
- Allie Thompson: 410-912-6939, [email protected]
Seaford
- Meredith Philips-Woodard: 302-628-6344 ext. 2577, [email protected]
Nutrition: A registered dietitian can help formulate an individualized, cost-effective, evidence-based nutrition care plan for patients and their families. Please call 410-912-5673 for information.
Nurse Navigator: Lisa Schirtzinger, RN, works individually with patients diagnosed with head/neck, esophageal or pancreatic cancer. You can call her at 410-912-5725 or email her at [email protected].
Fitness Resources
Cancer rehabilitation in Salisbury and Ocean Pines
Whether you are a cancer survivor or currently undergoing treatment, you can take advantage of the services offered through TidalHealth Cardiovascular, Pulmonary Rehabilitation & Preventive Cardiology. The program aims to reduce levels of fatigue, maintain strength and endurance, and improve flexibility.
Participants are under the supervision of an exercise physiologist certified in cancer exercise rehabilitation. An initial fitness assessment will be conducted, an individual exercise prescription will be developed, and that will be followed by two one-hour individual exercise sessions. The fee for the initial assessment is $75, including a one-month membership to TidalHealth Adult Fitness. Insurance does not generally cover this program; for financial assistance, please ask about TidalHealth’s financial aid program. For more information about TidalHealth Adult Fitness, call 410-912-6163 for Salisbury and 410-912-6108 for Ocean Pines.
Fixer Upper Health Club Cancer Rehabilitation (Salisbury)
This cancer rehabilitation program is designed to empower individuals affected by cancer to regain their strength, improve mobility and enhance overall well-being. The program offers personalized exercise plans and nutrition counseling, along with supportive community engagement and evidence-based practices. The goal is to foster resilience and promote a holistic approach to recovery. Fixer Upper Health Club aims to inspire hope, improve quality of life, and help participants reclaim their vitality before, during and after cancer treatment. Call 443-944-9544 or visit fixerupperhealthclub.com.
Livestrong® at the YMCA (Richard A. Henson Family YMCA in Salisbury)
In partnership with the Livestrong® Foundation, the YMCA has developed a small-group cancer survivorship program for those who are living with, through and beyond cancer. Throughout the program, participants will explore a variety of physical activities that promote cardiovascular conditioning, strength training, balance and flexibility. If you are interested in signing up, please email Eva Paxton at [email protected].
February through April 2025
Tuesdays and Thursdays
1:30 to 3 pm
The program is for adults ages 18 and older, and space is limited to six participants. The cost is free, and participants will receive a complimentary three-month membership.
MAC Fitness Program
Explore Tai Chi, Healing Yoga, and introductory gym membership. More information is included above in the resources section.
Support Groups
Head and Neck Cancer Support Group
A monthly support group for survivors of any type of head and neck cancer, as well as their caregivers. Call Lisa Schirtzinger at 410-912-5725 or Teresa Tyndall at 410-912-5760 for more information, including a link to join the group virtually.
Men’s Support Group
A monthly men-only support group for survivors and caregivers to discuss the latest information and resources and share experiences in a safe and confidential environment. For more information and to learn about the new virtual format, call Courtney Miller at 410-912-6987.
Unstoppable Joy
Offers an online caregiver support group, held twice a month, providing a safe space to connect with others who understand the caregiving experience for survivors diagnosed with any type of cancer. Call 410-213-3707 for details.
Women Supporting Women
Offers monthly support groups in numerous locations across the Lower Eastern Shore of Maryland for those affected by breast cancer. Topics will vary with each session and often include a speaker. Call 410-548-7880 for information.
MAC
Find information on a new weekly in-person support group in the resources section above.
Hotlines
211 Delaware
Delaware 2-1-1 is a free, confidential service that connects people in Delaware with health and human service organizations that offer support to individuals and families, Delaware residents can get information on resources such as food assistance, emergency shelter, and mental health care. Assistance is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, and many others.
211 Maryland
Maryland residents who need support should call 2-1-1, a free and confidential service. Someone is available to talk 24/7/365, and translation is available in 180+ languages. Call specialists are trained to help connect individuals and
families who need help with essential needs, such as housing, food, utility shutoff, and mental health. 2-1-1 is also
accessible for the deaf and hard of hearing through Maryland Relay (dial 7-1-1).
988 Lifeline
At the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline), counselors are ready to assist you with your mental health struggles, emotional distress, or thoughts of suicide. Even if you just need someone to talk to, dial 988 or text 988 to reach a counselor. You are not alone.
Veterans Crisis Line
Dial 988 then Press 1; Press 2 to communicate in Spanish
Resource Corner
Senior Connections at MAC
MAC’s senior activity center provides a series of services that focus on the health and well-being of senior citizens by facilitating activities including arts and crafts, gardening, and games. Participation in the day program is free to Wicomico County residents. Call 410-742-0505, ext. 133, for more information.
Cancer Support Community of Delaware
The Cancer Support Community of Delaware is a statewide nonprofit organization. Support groups and programs are professionally led and are provided at no cost to help participants and caregivers cope with the emotional and life-changing aspects of cancer. In addition to support groups, they offer stress reduction programs, Tai Chi, art therapy, mindfulness meditation, educational programs, and nutritional programs. Visit the Cancer Support Community of Delaware website for more information.
Delaware Aging & Disability Resource Center
The Delaware Aging & Disability Resource center has a network of resources for caregivers, including caregiver support, respite care, adult day programs, financial assistance, food programs, and many more. For more information, visit their website.
Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition
DBCC is a non-profit in Delaware to help facilitate early detection and treatment of breast cancer. DBCC has referred thousands of uninsured adults for free and low-cost cancer screenings and has removed barriers to cancer screenings and treatment by providing interpretation, transportation, and support services such as mentor, wigs, and bras.
Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Programs
Veteran Affairs (VA) offers a series of programs designed to support family caregivers. Trained professionals at the VA will assist in finding appropriate services for both the caregiver and the veteran. Services range from peer support groups to adult day healthcare to respite care. For access to services, please call the VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274.
Food Insecurity
Maryland Food Bank – Eastern Shore Branch
The Food Bank and its partners offer a variety of different food distribution programs. For information, call 410-742-0050 or check the website for upcoming events.
Food Bank of Delaware
Offers a network of food distribution options. For information, call 302-292-1305 or visit the Food Bank of Delaware website.
Additional services
If you need assistance with home health, hospice, or palliative care, please contact your physician or social worker for resources.
Assorted Resources
American Cancer Society (ACS) Patient Programs and Services
ACS offers programs and services to help patients during and after cancer treatment. ACS can also help you find other free or low-cost resources available including 24/7 Cancer Helpline (1-800-227-2345), lodging during treatment, rides to treatment, hair loss and post-surgical products.
Find Support Programs and Services in Your Area | American Cancer Society
Cancer Financial Assistance | State Benefits for Cancer Patients | American Cancer Society
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (L&LS)
L&LS is a leader in research for every type of blood cancer and advocates on behalf of and with blood cancer patients and their families. L&LS provides information and resources to those affected by blood cancers (financial support, food and nutrition consultations, support groups, caregiver support). Call an Information Specialist (trained oncology social workers and nurses) at 1-800-955-4572 (Monday-Friday, 9 am to 9 pm ET).
Support Resources | Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
Pink Fund
The Pink Fund provides financial assistance for up to 90 days for non-medical cost-of-living expenses for breast cancer patients in active treatment. For an application, visit the Pink Fund website.
Susan G. Komen®
The Komen Financial Assistance Program serves eligible individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment at any stage or living with metastatic breast cancer (stage IV), the most advanced stage of breast cancer. For an application, visit their website.
Komen Financial Assistance Program - Susan G. Komen®
Veterans Administration (VA) Cancer Resources
VA’s National Oncology Program is comprised of state-of-the-art services and tools for diagnosing and treating Veterans with cancer. To learn more, email [email protected]. Please allow 5-7 business days to receive a response.
VA's Oncology Services and Tools
Smoking Cessation Resources
American Lung Association
The Lung HelpLine and Tobacco Quitline is staffed by registered nurses and respiratory therapists ready to help you in any way possible. Connect by phone at 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872).
Lung Cancer - Help for Patients, Caregivers | American Lung Association
Maryland
Local county health departments offer free smoking/vaping cessation classes and low or no cost quit aid tools to reduce nicotine cravings and ease withdrawal symptoms (nicotine replacement patches, gum, or lozenges) to assist during the quitting process. Call your local HD for specific details on their tobacco cessation services:
- Somerset County 443-523-1700
- Wicomico County 410-334-3480
- Worcester County 410-632-1100
The Maryland Tobacco Quitline is a FREE service for Marylanders that offers 24-7 counseling and support consisting of telephone sessions with a trained quit coach, nicotine replacement therapy (4 weeks free of patch or gum to eligible clients), web-based services, recorded messages, texts, and/or literature. Services are also available in Spanish. Visit the Quitline website www.smokingstopshere.com or call 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669).
Delaware
There are two ways to get help quitting smoking from specially trained counselors: call the Delaware Quitline at 1-866-409-1858 or visit QuitSupport.com. Talk with a counselor to learn how to apply for tobacco cessation products such as nicotine replacement therapy gum and patches, as well as other medications.
