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HomeNewsArchives'ASK THE CIS' -- ANSWERS TO CANCER QUESTIONS

'ASK THE CIS' — ANSWERS TO CANCER QUESTIONS

Sept. 19, 2001 – Recognizing the value of information, the Cancer Information Service produces newspaper columns focused on the dissemination of such information in a question-and-answer form. Readers are encouraged to e-mail questions about any type of cancer, myths and rumors, or other cancer-related concerns. Answers utilizing the latest information on cancer-related issues will be provided via this medium in an easy-to-understand format.
The Cancer Information Service is a program of the National Cancer Institute, the nation’s primary agency for cancer research, and is entirely federally funded through the NCI. Through a network of regional offices, the CIS provides the latest and most accurate cancer information to patients, their families, health professionals and the public. It does this by:
– Talking with people one-on-one through its telephone service at 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
– Working with businesses and organizations through its Partnership Program.
– Participating in research efforts to find the best ways to help people adopt more healthful behaviors.
– Providing cancer information on the Internet at Cancer Information Service.
Since Oct. 15, 1999, the CIS has been providing service to V.I. residents through the toll-free telephone number. There is no charge to for the service, and all calls are confidential. The hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
People who call the toll-free number are connected to trained staff members who are experienced at explaining scientific information in understandable terms in both English and Spanish. The only time that the telephone specialist may ask for the caller's name and address is if the caller requests that printed information be mailed. And after the material is sent, the name and address record is destroyed.
On St. Thomas, the CIS has opened a regional Partnership Program office to serve the territory. The program is dedicated to reaching medically underserved populations. Partnering with local businesses and organizations, the CIS can provide an array of support services in areas such as cancer education, program planning and implementation, training assistance and media development.
One of the partners of the CIS is the "Every Woman at Heart" V.I. Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. Its purpose is to reduce mortality from breast and cervical cancers. Once a woman meets the income guidelines, the program provides underinsured or uninsured women over the age of 50 with free mammograms and women over the age of 18 with free pap smears. Program staff personnel will schedule appointments with doctors but provide transportation, if necessary. They also provide information on health education and treatment options. The woman is supported through every step of the process, providing a continuum of care.
For more information about "Every Woman at Heart, " call 774-9000, ext. 4643 on St. Thomas or 773-2676 on St. Croix.
For more information about the CIS and its services in the Virgin Islands, send an e-mail to Carthy Thomas, Partnership Program coordinator. Thomas also may be reached by telephone at 774-9000, ext. 4707. Queries also may be mailed to Health Department, Old Municipal Hospital, Bldg. F, St. Thomas VI 00802.
Many people in the Virgin Islands have lots of questions, comments and concerns about cancer. Any and off of them can be answered in the CIS column. I encourage the people of the Virgin Islands to utilize the services available. As our people become more educated about cancer, they will be able to make more informed decisions concerning health care. We look forward to hearing from you!
Carthy Thomas,
Partnership Program Coordinator
Coastal Cancer Information Service

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