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Cancer affects millions of lives worldwide. Though medical advancement has done a great deal to increase the human lifespan, proper nutrition has also been proven to help in the prevention of cancer. As researchers continue their hunt for a cure, there is a lot of information out there to support the argument that nutrition is an essential component in disease prevention and management. Nutrition Services: To learn more, call us at 775-982-4000 Linking Diet and Cancer Risk Evidence shows that our diets impact our vulnerability to cancer – and our ability to fight it. The American Cancer Society states that at least 18% of all cancers in the United States are related to excess body weight, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, and/or poor nutrition. (American Cancer Society Guideline for Diet and Physical Activity | American Cancer Society). Sure, genetics can contribute, but research continues to support the belief that following a healthy diet can reduce the likelihood of developing cancer in the first place. Renown Health’s Jessica Blauenstein, MS, RDN, LDN, CSO, Registered Dietitian and Board-Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition confirms the importance of a nutritious diet consisting of: Fruits and Vegetables: Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables provides large amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Nutrient-rich, they help in fighting off oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are factors for developing cancer. Whole Grains: A diet rich in grains such as brown rice, quinoa and oats, contains substantial amounts of fiber that helps in digestion. A few studies have shown that whole grains might offer some protection against colorectal cancer. Lean Proteins: Reducing the amount of red and processed meats in the diet by substituting lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, beans and lentils may lower the risk of developing cancer. Red and processed meats have been associated with colorectal and other cancers when consumed in large amounts. Healthy Fats: Begin focusing on healthy fats from foods like avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats are anti-inflammatory, which may play a beneficial role in disease prevention. Avoidance of Sugar and Processed Foods: Sugar and foods high in processed ingredients have been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It's important to limit the intake of sugary drinks, candy and snacks in the battle against cancer. A Role of Nutrition in Cancer Recovery Nutrition becomes even more critical for individuals who receive treatment and are in recovery. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery can take a lot out of a body, affecting appetite, digestion and nutrient absorption. Proper nutrition during and after treatment can help: Support Immune Function: A good, balanced diet will provide the essential nutrients that support a resilient immune system, which is important in fighting off infections and supporting overall health during cancer treatment. Maintain Strength and Energy Levels: Proper caloric intake, protein and micronutrients prevent muscle wasting and fatigue, allowing patients to sustain their strength and energy. Address Side Effects: Certain foods and diets can help reduce or alleviate some common side effects associated with cancer treatment, including nausea, vomiting and mucositis. Eating small, frequent meals, maintaining good hydration, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can all ease treatment-related discomfort associated with the GI tract. Facilitate Healing and Recovery: Nutrient-rich foods promote healing and the repair of tissues that may be damaged after surgery or other medical interventions. Foods high in proteins, vitamins and minerals play a significant role in repairing and replacing damaged tissues and cells. Correct Nutritional Deficiencies: Cancer and its treatment cause vitamin D, vitamin B12 and iron deficiencies in the diet. Nutrition therapy through a registered dietitian or nutritionist can identify those deficiencies and help manage them through dietary changes or supplementary means. Related information: Nourishing Your Loved One Through Cancer Treatment

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Up to half of all men and one-third of all women will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, according to the Nevada Cancer Coalition. Chances are, you or someone you care about has been affected by cancer and has witnessed the ultimate fight for life. More than likely, your loved one’s cancer journey involved radiation therapy – and in fact, more than half of cancer diagnoses are treated in whole or in part with radiation. At first glance, this treatment plan can sound scary to any person. With a cancer care journey, it takes a village, and at Renown Health, we have top-notch leaders of the village roads that lead to radiation.  Meet our Radiation Oncology team at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute. From intake to inpatient, this department of passionate physicians, radiation therapists, registered nurses, medical assistants, intake coordinators, schedulers and more are here to help every patient dealing with the intimidating diagnosis of cancer. Any patient that needs radiation as a part of their treatment is in the best of hands with this team, who will stop at nothing to ensure each patient under their care knows that they have a village Fighting the Good Fight right alongside them.  Teamwork in Tackling Tumors One of the most common forms of cancer treatment, radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to minimize cancerous cells. But with Renown’s Radiation Oncology department, the impressive cancer care doesn’t stop there – this team leverages advanced technology right at their fingertips. In fact, our cancer institute has the most state-of-the-art radiation therapy system of its kind – the ultra-precise Varian TrueBeam radiation therapy system – and is the very first program holding American College of Radiology accreditation in the entire region.  Given the advanced nature of their jobs and the high standard of care their patients expect them to uphold, it’s no question that the days-in-the-life of each team member is complex and can continually change every day.  “There are many moving parts in radiation oncology on any given day,” said Sandra Bailey, Manager of Radiation Oncology Services. “The radiation oncologists consult newly diagnosed patients, follow up with previously treated patients and oversee daily treatments for patients actively receiving treatments. Nurses and medical assistants move around the clinic to support the physicians with patients and provide education and other supportive care.”  The physics and dosimetry teams work diligently alongside the physicians to design the most beneficial treatment plan for each patient. Once a patient begins their treatments, the radiation therapists administer the daily treatments with the utmost precision. Intake coordinators, schedulers and patient access representatives make surethe patients have their insurance authorization and are processed through the system appropriately. Like any well-oiled machine, each part is necessary for the other to function at peak performance to ensure our patients receive the quality care they deserve and expect. Like many other clinical departments at Renown, teamwork coupled with education is crucial to best serve radiation therapy patients. Our nurses on this team are experts at exactly that, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of care in the face of a daunting disease.  “Radiation oncology is a unique world,” said Kristen Reed, Registered Nurse. “We have many different team members that play a role in how we function as a department. We all work together in some aspect to provide care for our patients. As a nurse, I provide patient education to all my patients before starting treatment to go over potential side effects and expectations on their treatment. Daily, we see new patients and follow-ups, plan simulations to start patients for radiation treatments and provide radiation treatments, among many other daily tasks.”  The unique role of our radiation therapists, the team members who are on the frontlines of giving radiation treatments, helps this department stand out from the rest with their tireless dedication to fighting against cancer with compassion and expertise. Not only are they armed with technology, but they are also armed with hands that deliver healing rays of radiation.  “As a radiation therapist, our daily tasks can vary pretty widely,” said Casey Johnson, Radiation Therapist. “We rotate between three radiation treatment machines called linear accelerators – one of which we use for stereotactic radiosurgery, a minimally invasive form of surgical intervention. We also staff the CT simulation room where we construct all the patients' treatment devices and perform their ‘mapping’ scan. We then coordinate with the dosimetrists and physicians to determine the specifics of the patients’ course of treatment. The most important parts of our job are patient care and education. Even though our job is very technical and requires tremendous attention to detail, the critical part is remembering that our average workday could be a monumental day for a new patient.”  “Our day-in-the-life in Radiation Oncology is centered around patient care,” added Haley Longfield, Radiation Therapist. “Although we do not spend a ton of time with our patients, we see them every day. We are able to build a wonderful rapport with our patients that is top-notch. We set up the room with their treatment devices, get them set up appropriately and administer their radiation treatment. On average, our patients are here for about 15 minutes.”  The bottom line: our Radiation Oncology team’s unified commitment to both excellence and innovation promises a brighter future for those battling cancer. No one is ever alone in their fight, and this team makes sure of that, no matter what.  Radiating Excellence in Cancer Care The Pennington Cancer Institute boasts a stellar reputation in our community for offering best-in-class, evidence-based care and cutting-edge research, improving outcomes for patients battling cancer. This fact is what inspired many Radiation Oncology team members to take their talents to this department in the first place.   “I chose to work at the Cancer Institute because I believe we offer the best patient care experience, along with the most advanced radiation treatments in the area,” said Casey Johnson.  "I am a fifth generation Reno resident, and I am part of this community through and through,” added Haley Longfield. “I always knew that I wanted to work here.” The success of our cancer institute starts with our people – and many members of the Radiation Oncology team witnessed this firsthand upon their arrival in this department. “I was initially inspired to move across the country to work in the Cancer Institute by the vision of the senior leaders and the future growth plans for the entire institute; once I arrived, I quickly realized what a great team I am now leading,” said Sandra Bailey. “The compassion and care the Radiation Oncology team provides our patients is second to none. Medical errors are rare in our department, and this can be attributed to not only the processes in place to prevent them, but everyone working together to deliver radiation treatments safely. Each day I witness a patient relationship being nurtured and developed. I am truly honored to be part of this team.”  Inspired by Renown's integral role in the northern Nevada community, several team members were drawn to this department because of the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives in a quiet healing environment.  “As a student nurse, I had clinical and practicum on the cancer nursing unit here at Renown; I noticed the quiet, healing environment and a patient population enduring some of life’s most challenging hurdles,” said Rachel Bales, Registered Nurse. “It is in these moments that you can really make a difference as a nurse. After pursuing critical care as a new grad and working in Interventional Radiology with cancer patients, I knew that I had to find my way back to oncology. I applied to Radiation Oncology, and I am working towards my third year in this department. I have always known that I enjoy helping others, and the fulfillment that comes from working with this patient population is unmatched.”  “Renown is a huge part of the community in northern Nevada, and I knew while I was in nursing school that I wanted to have a career here,” added Kristen Reed. “I ended up joining the Cancer Institute about two years ago. My patients are a huge part of why I stay. We really get to know these patients and their families well, especially because they come in from Monday through Friday for up to six weeks for treatments. Building connections and being able to support these patients during a difficult time in their life makes my job fulfilling.”  From the initial consultation to the administration of therapy, the staff's commitment to personalized care remains strong. Patients and their families develop profound connections with these team members as they navigate through the challenges of treatment.  “We have knowledgeable and caring staff that help guide our patients through treatment,” said Kristen Reed. “This starts on the day of their consultation and continues even after completion of treatment. The patients and families get to know the staff through their treatment, and having a familiar face can be reassuring to them. We also take time every week to see how they are doing physically and mentally while undergoing treatment and we give them a chance to check in with their doctor. Taking this time helps reassure patients and allows them to ask questions, and in turn, reduce some anxiety and worry.”

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