Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute

The National Cancer Institute-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center will expand clinical trial studies for multiple cancer types DETROIT, April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute has been awarded $459,010 for continued research in treating cancers with radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. Leaders from U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation, an organization that supports cancer research in Michigan, delivered the check to Karmanos researchers in March. U CAN-CER VIVE was co-founded by Ryan and Kelley LaFontaine. The funds will help open clinical trial studies in cancer treatment of breast, colorectal and pancreatic cancers, and continue studies in liver cancer with the novel, handheld, portable device, TheraBionic P1. Continue Reading The U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation awarded Karmanos Cancer Institute researchers and physician-scientists a grant to expand studies using radiofrequency electromagnetic fields to treat cancer. "U CAN-CER VIVE has supported the important research that our scientists conduct, and we are grateful to have had their continued commitment over the years that assists our labs in breakthrough research and development of novel treatments," explained Anthony Shields, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist, associate center director of Clinical Sciences and member of the Gastrointestinal and Neuroendocrine Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) at Karmanos. "We've seen clear benefits in patients that we have prescribed the TheraBionic P1 device since we began offering this therapy in November. Since the announcement of Karmanos being the first to offer treatments with the device for advanced liver cancer, many of our clinical researchers have been looking into how this new therapy can extend treatment options for many of their patients." The TheraBionic P1 device was FDA-approved in September 2023 to treat advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer. This treatment concept and device has undergone two decades of research and studies, which showed using the TheraBionic P1 device resulted in tumor shrinkage, blocked new cancer cell growth, and increased overall survival rates. According to TheraBionic, Inc., patients undergoing treatment in these studies did not experience debilitating side effects associated with other cancer-fighting therapies, including loss of appetite, diarrhea, and irritation of the palms and soles. One patient lived nearly six years, using the device consistently months after recurrence of HCC. TheraBionic P1 is the first FDA-approved systemic therapy using radiofrequency electromagnetic fields to treat cancer. The TheraBionic P1 device was co-invented by Boris Pasche, M.D., Ph.D., FACP, the president and CEO of Karmanos. In research studies, he and his co-inventor, Alexandre Barbault, learned that specific tumors react to specific tumor frequencies. "The device is amplitude-modulated at tumor-specific frequencies. We discovered that different frequencies are needed for HCC, breast, pancreatic, colon cancers, and other solid tumors. Dr. Shields and our Karmanos physician-scientists are leading these studies. We look forward to the results of these clinical trials and hope to continue offering this device to patients who may need another option for treatment," said Dr. Pasche. The device emits low levels of 27.12 MHz radiofrequency electromagnetic fields, which are amplitude-modulated at tumor-specific frequencies ranging from 200 Hz to 100,000 Hz. The patient puts a spoon-shaped antenna on their tongue to administer treatment in three one-hour sessions daily in the comfort of their own home. The specific low levels of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields travel throughout the patient's body to the primary tumor and its metastases, wherever they are located. The tumor-specific radiofrequency electromagnetic fields are recognized by receptors on tumor cells.1,2 Once recognized by the receptors, the signal transforms into growth arrest, blocking the growth of tumor cells without affecting healthy tissue. Radiofrequency levels delivered during treatment are lower than those generated by cellular phones when held close to the body. "U CAN-CER VIVE was born from a deeply personal place — a promise to fight for every life impacted by cancer," said Kelley LaFontaine, co-founder of U CAN-CER VIVE. "This gift to Karmanos represents more than funding; it's our unwavering belief in the brilliance of Michigan's researchers and the strength of every patient in the fight of their life. To know that this device is already changing outcomes, already giving families more time together — that's why we do what we do. We are honored to stand beside the team at Karmanos as they push the boundaries of what's possible and bring new light into the lives of so many." Many of the studies that the U CAN-CER VIVE grant supports are expected to open in 2025. Currently, Karmanos has a study available for patients with metastatic adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. For more information on clinical trials available at Karmanos and to access the clinical trials portal, visit karmanos.org/clinicaltrials. About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Karmanos Cancer Institute is a leader in transformative cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion. The Karmanos vision is a world free of cancer. As part of McLaren Health Care, Karmanos is the largest provider of cancer care and research in Michigan. For more than 75 years, the administrative and research headquarters, along with the premier specialty cancer hospital, have been located in downtown Detroit. With 17 network sites, Karmanos delivers world-renowned care and access to clinical trials throughout Michigan and northern Ohio. The National Cancer Institute recognizes Karmanos as one of the best cancer centers in the nation with a comprehensive cancer center designation. Its academic partnership with the Wayne State University School of Medicine provides the framework for cancer research and education – defining new standards of care and improving survivorship. For more information, call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266) or visit karmanos.org. Follow Karmanos on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. About U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation Founded in 2016 by siblings Ryan and Kelley LaFontaine, U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to raising vital funds for cancer research. 100% of donations go directly toward funding grants for life-saving cancer research in the state of Michigan. Powered entirely by passionate volunteers, U CAN-CER VIVE is dedicated to creating a sustainable impact by supporting cutting-edge research, driving awareness, and offering hope to countless individuals and families affected by cancer. With the belief that together we CAN make a difference, U CAN-CER VIVE continues to fuel progress toward a cancer-free future. To learn more or get involved, visit or follow @UCANCERVIVE on social media. 1. Jimenez, H., Wang, M., Zimmerman, J.W., et al: Tumour-specific amplitude-modulated radiofrequency electromagnetic fields induce differentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma via targeting Cav3.2T-type voltage-gated calcium channels and Ca(2+) influx. EBioMedicine 44:209-224, 2019 2. Sharma, S., Wu, S.Y., Jimenez, H., et al: Ca(2+) and CACNA1H mediate targeted suppression of breast cancer brain metastasis by AM RF EMF. EBioMedicine 44:194-208, 2019 SOURCE Karmanos Cancer Institute WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

DETROIT, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, cancer centers, and other organizations nationwide recognize April as Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month. Many types of cancers occur in the head and neck. They include: Continue Reading Karmanos Cancer Institute, headquartered in Detroit, recognizes Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month in April and educates the community about signs and symptoms not to ignore. (GettyImages/ Tashi-Delek) Other cancers, such as melanoma and sarcoma, may also occur in the head or neck. Head and Neck Cancer Symptoms and Early Detection While there is no comprehensive routine screening test for head and neck cancers, many pre-cancers and cancers in these areas can be detected in the early stages during routine doctor and dentist visits or by self-exam. Your doctor or dentist may recommend that you regularly examine your mouth to check for any changes, especially if you smoke or drink alcohol. Using these products can cause an increased risk of head and neck cancers. "It's important to be vigilant and pay attention to any changes in the mouth, around the neck and lymph node areas," explained Ammar Sukari, M.D., medical oncologist and leader of the Head and Neck Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT). "Sometimes, an odd lump or interesting sore can amount to nothing, but it's best to check with a physician – we know the earlier we can catch these cancers, the better treatment options we can provide patients." Possible signs and symptoms of oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancers include: HPV and Head and Neck Cancer There is a strong link between the human papillomavirus (HPV) and head and neck cancers. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that affects tens of millions of Americans every year. It is so prevalent that The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that nearly every sexually active person will be diagnosed with HPV sometime in their lives. More than 100 HPV subtypes infect humans. HPV infections are usually asymptomatic. Nine out of 10 cases of HPV are self-clearing, though 20 to 40 subtypes may cause cancer. "Throat cancer is one of the leading head and neck cancers that HPV can cause. With the HPV vaccine, many are now able to prevent most HPV-related cancers from developing due to the virus, which will help save a lot of lives down the road," explained Dr. Sukari. The HPV vaccine, also known as Gardasil®, was initially approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006 to prevent cervical cancer linked to HPV. In 2018, the FDA approved a supplemental application for Gardasil® 9, expanding the vaccine's approved use to include women and men aged 27 through 45. Gardasil® 9 prevents certain cancers and diseases caused by the nine HPV types covered by the vaccine, including oropharyngeal cancer. Head and Neck Cancer Treatment at Karmanos Cancer Institute At Karmanos, head and neck cancers are treated by members of the Head and Neck Oncology MDT, which include surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, neuroradiologists, interventional radiologists, endocrinologists, facial and reconstructive surgeons, oral oncologists and dentists, maxillofacial prosthodontists, speech and swallow therapists, pathologists, pharmacists, dietitians, social workers, and genetic counselors. The team focuses entirely on treating head and neck cancers and shares its collective expertise to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. "Our team uses the latest technologies, including the da Vinci® Si™ Surgical System, stereotactic radiation, and cryotherapy, to achieve optimum patient success. We also offer multiple clinical trials to treat head and neck cancers," added Dr. Sukari. If facing a head and neck cancer diagnosis, it is important to be evaluated by cancer experts. Call 1-800-KARMANOS or visit karmanos.org to learn more. About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Karmanos Cancer Institute is a leader in transformative cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion. The Karmanos vision is a world free of cancer. As part of McLaren Health Care, Karmanos is the largest provider of cancer care and research in Michigan. For more than 75 years, the administrative and research headquarters, along with the premier specialty cancer hospital, have been located in downtown Detroit. With 17 network sites, Karmanos delivers world-renowned care and access to clinical trials throughout Michigan and northern Ohio. The National Cancer Institute recognizes Karmanos as one of the best cancer centers in the nation with a comprehensive cancer center designation. Its academic partnership with the Wayne State University School of Medicine provides the framework for cancer research and education – defining new standards of care and improving survivorship. For more information, call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266) or visit . Follow Karmanos on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. SOURCE Karmanos Cancer Institute WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

DETROIT, April 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, cancer centers, and other organizations nationwide recognize April as Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. This cancer occurs when cells grow out of control in the testicles, part of the male reproductive system, and there are multiple forms of testicular cancer. Testicular Cancer Facts and Figures According to the American Cancer Society (ACS): Continue Reading Young adult males talking in a park. GettyImages/Thurtell In 2025, about 9,720 new testicular cancer cases will be diagnosed. About one of every 250 males will develop testicular cancer at some point in their lives. This cancer can affect young males, with the average age at the time of diagnosis being 33. About 6% of cases occur in children and teens, and about 8% occur in men over 55. Because testicular cancer can usually be treated successfully, a man's lifetime risk of dying from this cancer is about 1 in 5,000. Testicular Cancer Symptoms and Risk Factors While some testicular cancer cases have no signs or symptoms, signs of this disease can often be caught during a routine exam. "With the absence of symptoms in the early stages of testicular cancer, I continue to stress the importance of males getting their annual wellness checks with their primary care providers and not hesitating to see their providers if something is not normal," expressed Nitin Vaishampayan, M.D., radiation oncologist and leader of the Genitourinary Oncology Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) at Karmanos. Symptoms may include swelling of the testicle, a lump, a feeling of heaviness or pain in the scrotum, and aches in the lower abdomen. In rare cases, breast growth or soreness may occur. Certain testicular tumors may cause early puberty in boys. Many men who develop testicular cancer do not have any risk factors. However, the following may cause a higher risk of the disease: An HIV infection. An undescended testicle. Being of a certain race or ethnicity – White men are four to five times more likely to develop testicular cancer. Americans and Europeans have the highest risk. Family history of testicular cancer or having had testicular cancer before. Testicular Cancer Treatment at Karmanos Cancer Institute At Karmanos, testicular cancer is treated by the Genitourinary Oncology MDT, which includes surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, pharmacists, nurse practitioners, dietitians, social workers, and genetic counselors. The team focuses entirely on treating genitourinary cancers and shares its collective expertise to create a customized treatment plan for each patient. The team uses the latest technologies, including the da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System and cryotherapy, to achieve optimum patient success. To learn more, visit karmanos.org. About the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute Karmanos Cancer Institute is a leader in transformative cancer care, research and education through courage, commitment and compassion. The Karmanos vision is a world free of cancer. As part of McLaren Health Care, Karmanos is the largest provider of cancer care and research in Michigan. For more than 75 years, the administrative and research headquarters, along with the premier specialty cancer hospital, have been located in downtown Detroit. With 17 network sites, Karmanos delivers world-renowned care and access to clinical trials throughout Michigan and northern Ohio. The National Cancer Institute recognizes Karmanos as one of the best cancer centers in the nation with a comprehensive cancer center designation. Its academic partnership with the Wayne State University School of Medicine provides the framework for cancer research and education – defining new standards of care and improving survivorship. For more information, call 1-800-KARMANOS (800-527-6266) or visit karmanos.org. Follow Karmanos on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. SOURCE Karmanos Cancer Institute WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED