Hospital Provides Way to “Get Cancer Answers”

Antelope Valley has the highest death rates for lung and breast cancer in Los Angeles County. Antelope Valley Medical Center is looking to help change that with “Get Cancer Answers,” a free interactive and educational fair that will take place Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the hospital’s Community Resource Center, 44151 15th Street West, Lancaster.

Attendees will learn how to prevent, recognize and treat the area’s most common cancers—breast, lung, colon and skin. The family-friendly event will feature skin cancer screenings, “ask the doctor” forums, physician presentations, fitness displays, nutrition and healthy cooking demonstrations, survivor stories, a kids activity corner and community health resources. The first 50 attendees will receive a free gift.

“This event is part of a concerted effort by community health organizations to join forces in addressing ways to prevent cancer in our region,” said Patricia Karnstedt, cancer program coordinator for the hospital. “We are excited to take the lead in improving the health of local residents, including combatting risk factors that lead to cancer.”

Get Cancer Answers is presented in partnership with the American Cancer Society, City of Hope, Kaiser Permanente, Antelope Valley Partners for Health and Antelope Valley Community Clinic.

As a nationally-recognized Comprehensive Community Cancer Center, the hospital provides complete and personalized cancer care—from screening to diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. The medical center is dedicated to guiding and supporting each patient and their family through the entire process. Patients receive comprehensive care, focusing on prevention, screening, early detection, cancer staging, a full complement of chemotherapy protocols, radiation oncology services, surgery and hormone therapy. The hospital also offers rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease and end-of-life care. Patients have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, psycho-social support, a patient navigator and a survivorship care plan.