Our doctors answer your questions about cancer, other illnesses

Confused about cancer? Have a question about strokes or heart attacks? Below are some frequently asked questions to help you understand a little bit better what you or your family memeber may be going through. If you can't find the information you are looking for, click here to submit your question and we'll have a doctor respond and post it to this page.

What is Cancer?

Cancer comes from out-of-control cells. When some of the cells start to grow out of control, they can crowd out normal cells. This is called cancer.

I heard that a certain type of cancer is transmitted by blood. Is that true? What type is it?

Cancer is NOT contagious or transmitted by blood. There are blood cancers such as leukemia. Sometimes cancers can spread through the blood to other parts of the body. I would like to remind you that you can't "catch" cancer from someone who has cancer. 

Will I get Cancer?

Cancer is not contagious!

Should I get tested for Cancer?

Some cancer is caused by genetic mutations and some tests are available. However you should talk to the doctor and see if the test is warranted.   

My mom talks about something called a CAT scan. What is it?

CAT scan stands for Computerized Axial Tomography. The CAT scan machine takes a bunch of x-rays from all around the body. These x-rays are used to produce virtual slices of the body called tomographic images. The term CAT scan is not really used anymore most healthcare professionals opt for CT scan. CT stands for Computed Tomography. Essentially, the two terms are synonymous.

Fun Fact: Cats can get CAT scans! Many veterinarians utilize a smaller version of a CAT scan machine to image utilize a smaller version of a CAT scan machine to image their furry feline patients!