While most patients treated with radiation therapy for cancers of the head and neck develop oral mucositis, there is no standard approach for monitoring those patients for this often-debilitating side effect of cancer treatment or for measuring its severity. In new work published today by JAMA Network Open, a research team at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center shows that more patients than previously thought experience mucositis and can benefit from earlier diagnosis and intervention to address its effects.

A program launched at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center three years ago to advance health equity and access by strengthening connections between cancer researchers and Indigenous communities has grown into a broad-based team of Indigenous experts with an expanded scope and purpose. The cancer center’s new Department of Indigenous Cancer Health reflects the significant growth of an initiative led since its inception by health disparities expert Rodney Haring, PhD, MSW, an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation of Indians, Beaver Clan.

Opening the doors to specialized cancer and dermatology services to patients in Niagara County and beyond, Roswell Park Care Network leaders announce their newest practice in Lockport.