Transforming cancer care as we know it
When cancer is detected in the early stages, more treatment options are available and your chances for a full recovery are much higher. Yet only four types of cancer currently have a routine screening test for early detection, and cancer remains the second-leading cause of death in the United States.
At Baylor Scott & White, you will find a team dedicated to changing the future of cancer care, not only across North and Central Texas but everywhere. Preventing, or intercepting, cancer before it has had a chance to spread is a critical part of this goal. A new initiative called the Texas Cancer Interception Institute aims to support national efforts to reduce the cancer mortality rate by 50% within the next 25 years.
Fight to beat cancer
Increase access to screening and detection
Cancer affects everyone, but research shows that some communities face more health challenges. These groups often have lower rates of cancer screenings, which can lead to diagnoses at more advanced stages when the condition is harder to treat. Early detection and intervention are very important in these communities. By improving access to screenings and providing information about cancer risks, we can help people get diagnosed and treated sooner. Addressing these inequities not only helps people stay healthier but also improves the overall well-being of their communities.
Identify patients at risk of cancer progression
For people diagnosed with conditions that may lead to cancer, our teams use the latest technologies to determine their risk. We talk with people about their individual chances of progressing to active cancer and offer treatment options to help prevent that from happening. Our goal is to not only assess their risk but also to educate and support people so they can make informed choices about their health. By using advanced tools and providing compassionate care, we aim to improve patient outcomes and encourage early detection.
Early prevention and interception
We are developing different ways to help prevent cancer early by focusing on lifestyle changes and advanced medical treatments. This includes encouraging healthy habits like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding tobacco, which can all lower the risk of cancer.
We are also evaluating preventive methods like vaccines, immunotherapy and precision medicine. Vaccines can help the body fight certain cancers, while immunotherapy boosts your own immune system to attack cancer cells. Precision medicine customizes treatment based on a person's genetics and health needs, making prevention and early detection more effective.
By combining new treatment options with healthy lifestyle changes, we aim to create a prevention plan that can help stop cancer before it starts, all while improving your health.
Cancer interception research initiatives
Many cancers are identified only after symptoms emerge, often at an advanced stage. Our focus is on intercepting cancer at its earliest stages through proactive detection and intervention. By addressing preliminary health issues or underlying conditions, we have the opportunity to prevent many cancers before they develop.
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Texas Immuno-Oncology Biorepository (TIOB)
At the TIOB, part of the Baylor Scott & White Research Institute, researchers collect biospecimens from a very large, diverse patient population. Studying these samples, including cells, tissue, urine, stool, blood and more, helps researchers understand how different cells respond to various cancer treatments and why some are resistant to some forms of therapy. Through this important work, we can develop new forms of immunotherapy and learn ways to diagnose cancers earlier.
By expanding these efforts, we can help fuel other research initiatives across the country and make strides in improving outcomes for many people living with cancer.
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High-Risk Breast Screening Program
The High-Risk Breast Screening Program helps women understand their risk of developing breast cancer. When you have your screening mammogram, you will fill out a questionnaire about your personal and family health history. Your answers, combined with an evaluation of your mammogram results, determine whether your participation in the program is recommended.
If you are identified as high-risk, you will work with a physician and nurse navigator and have the opportunity to use risk-reduction and surveillance strategies to increase the chances of early detection.
With the sustained growth of this program, we can discover more breast cancers at earlier stages for better outcomes.
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Texas Multi-Cancer Early Detection Program
Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests are simple blood tests that have the potential to detect a wide range of cancers before symptoms appear, when they are more treatable. Many MCED tests are currently being developed, with some available now through a doctor’s prescription.
Baylor Scott & White Research Institute has partnered with Exact Sciences Corp. to create the Texas MCED Program, which aims to intercept cancer in earlier stages. Using the Exact Sciences MCED test, our providers will administer 50,000 tests to people from diverse backgrounds over the next three years as part of standard cancer screenings. Studying the results of this program will give researchers significant insights into the value of conducting MCED tests and reaching a diverse group of people.
Cancer care and support
At Baylor Scott & White locations across North and Central Texas, you will find care teams committed to providing advanced, personalized treatments along with support services. Our goal is to continue to expand these services to not only help intercept cancer sooner but also to ensure you have support throughout your cancer journey.
We are building our support services through the following steps:
- Our genetic counseling team can help people with a family history of cancer or who have certain other risk factors that determine their cancer risk.
- You may have access to oncology patient navigators and psychologists. These team members help you navigate your diagnosis and provide practical and emotional support for you and your family.
- The MyBSWHealth app will soon include virtual patient navigation. This means if you receive a cancer diagnosis or are identified as high risk for cancer, you will have access to 24/7 guidance and support through the app.