PCH Cancer Center reports on 2013 outreach program

One of the goals of the Putnam County Cancer Center is to be sure its program meets the needs of the community with early detection screening and prevention of cancers.

In 2013, the PCH Outreach Program has provided several presentations and services specifically geared toward residents of Putnam County and some of the cancers that affect them.

Lou Fordice, who has been the director of the successful Outreach Program for many years, stepped down from these duties in September this year. PCH is grateful for the wonderful job she has done to help the education of many residents.

Sarah Barnes, RN, has taken over the reins and done a remarkable job, hospital officials said.

The ultraviolet rays of the sun are a threat to many area residents in this rural farming community, so there is a need for education concerning sun exposure, effects, and skin cancers. This year, PCH gave away more than 400 tubes of sunscreen and skin cancer prevention information to area residents at the Cancer Center, the Putnam County Fair and local physician offices.

PCH sponsored two 2013 Skin Screenings conducted May 29 and Oct. 16 with Dr. John Stephens, dermatologist, volunteering for these exams. A total of 61 individuals were screened with 18 referred for further investigation.

October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, has been quite active for the hospital, which has participated with activities such as passing out information at DePauw University's Dig Pink women's volleyball game. Cancer Center and Mammography Department representatives also visited the North Putnam High School volleyball team to speak about the importance of self-breast exams and healthy living styles.

Hospital representatives also attended the 5K Pink Halloween Fun Run/Walk at Robe-Ann Park, passing out water to the participants. Meanwhile, an educational e-mail was sent to all employees concerning breast cancer awareness. Information concerning breast cancer awareness and self-breast exams was made available at the clinic for hospital staff and visitors.

On Nov. 19, the PCH Cancer Center sponsored a prostate screening for 94 area men. Exams were performed by Drs. Sreedasyam and Landry who volunteered their time. The PCH Laboratory Department for donating their time to draw the PSA screening tests.

This year, the Cancer Center sponsored a talk by Dr. Palanca concerning colon cancer and colonoscopy screening. Hospital physicians and staff were invited and excellence attendance resulted. Educational emails about the importance of colonoscopies and colon cancer were also sent to all hospital employees.

The Putnam County Cancer Center was able to provide all of these services for the community with thanks to the Putnam County Community Foundation, Walmart, CVS, PCH Auxiliary Guild members, PCH Dietary Department, Putnam Surgical Specialties, local volunteers and the Cancer Clinic staff.