TV Coverages

Lova Arenivas, M.D., breast radiologist at Texas Breast Specialists–Amarillo, explains that at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Heath Cost Institute reported a 77 percent decrease in breast cancer screening nationwide. Due to the major decrease in mammography, experts estimate that over the next decade there may be an increase in the number of women dying from the disease.

Ashley Taylor was diagnosed with breast cancer during COVID-19 after noticing an abnormality from a self-breast exam. A mammogram confirmed her diagnosis and she started treatment shortly thereafter. Ashley and her medical oncologist, Carl Chakmakjian, D.O., of Texas Oncology–Waco are encouraging other people to continue their cancer screenings and diligence during the pandemic.

As part of breast cancer awareness month, Caroline Coombs-Skiles, M.D., FACS, of Texas Breast Specialists–Austin Downtown, was featured on KVUE-TV discussing common misconceptions about breast cancer. Dr. Coombs-Skiles also highlighted the importance of annual screenings and risk factors for the disease.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s latest announcement lifted restrictions on elective surgeries in most Texas counties following a surge of COVID-19 cases this summer. Helen Eshed, M.D., gynecologic oncologist at Texas Oncology–Austin Central, explains the importance of continued cancer care during the pandemic. She also encourages people to get their cancer screenings for early detection, citing that more patients are being diagnosed at advanced stages due to a delay in screenings.

Recent study findings from the Prevent Cancer Foundation revealed that 35% of Americans have skipped a scheduled cancer screening due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Miguel Albino, M.D., medical oncologist at Texas Oncology–Austin North Suite 300, discusses the potential impact of delayed screenings leading to cancer diagnoses at later stages. People should consult their doctor about the appropriate time to get screened.

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death among men and women combined in the U.S. This year, there will be close to 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in the U.S. Brano Djenic, M.D., colon and rectal surgeon, Texas Oncology Surgical Specialists, discusses the importance of screening for colon cancer.

Debra Patt, M.D., PhD, MBA, medical oncologist and executive vice president at Texas Oncology, discusses the alarming decline in lung cancer diagnoses in Texas, the serious implications this can have for patient outcomes, and the importance of seeking regular care during COVID-19 – especially for those at increased risk for lung cancer. According to the NCI, delays in cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment because of the COVID-19 pandemic will likely result in thousands of excess cancer deaths in the coming years.

Following the death of actor Chadwick Boseman, Texoma medical professionals are calling attention to the increasing occurence of colon cancer in young people. According to B. Kent Ulrich, M.D., of Texas Oncology–Wichita Falls Cancer Center, the risk of colon cancer for young Black men is 20 percent higher, and these patients are much more likely to present with advanced disease.

Debra Patt, M.D., PhD, MBA, medical oncologist and executive vice president at Texas Oncology, discusses the alarming decline in lung cancer diagnoses in Texas and the importance of seeking regular care during COVID-19. According to the National Cancer Institute, the pandemic is causing delays in cancer screenings, diagnoses, and treatment, which will have dire effects.

Due to COVID-19 exposure concerns, many people are delaying screenings that can help detect cancer early when it’s most treatable. Michelle Ashworth, medical oncologist at Texas Oncology–Round Rock, explains that this decrease in screenings may result in cancers being diagnosed at a later stage. Dr. Ashworth’s patient, Katherine Peck, also shares her experience continuing her annual mammogram during the pandemic that led to early detection of breast cancer.