This month’s Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, which is April 17 at the state Capitol, puts a well-deserved focus on the fight against breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide and one of the leading causes of death among women. Sparrow is proud to be a sponsor of the Race for the Cure and many of our associates will participate in the event. Breast cancer treatment and after-care support is one of the broadest services we provide at the Sparrow Cancer Center. We have a very active Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic and group and we are very excited about several new developments in our efforts.

We recently installed new Stereotactic Biopsy breast imaging equipment, and Sparrow boasts digital mammography at most of its mammographic sites. We also offer ultrasound and breast MRI as part of our imaging services. If something suspicious is found, a stereotactic biopsy is the next step in the process.

The new technology is state-of-the-art and enhances images to improve our view of targeted areas. It allows physicians to be even more precise in taking a minimally invasive biopsy in the specific area. It also gives us a higher accuracy rate with minimal risk of complications.

Stereotactic biopsy equipment was specially designed with a foam table to enhance the comfort of patients. This equipment was partially funded through the generosity of Women Working Wonders (W3), which operates through the Sparrow Foundation to support women’s health issues.

W3 previously funded our brachytherapy equipment, which allows us to place radiation material directly into or near a tumor for maximum effects. It reduces the time women spend receiving radiation treatments, while increasing the likelihood of destroying a tumor and cutting the down the risk of damage to healthy tissue.

Our new Nurse Navigator will be the “go-to” person for a breast cancer patient, coordinating and arranging her care in a sensitive and compassionate way.

The Nurse Navigator will get involved in the process as soon as an abnormal mammogram is identified. And they will continue to be involved through post-care support. They will provide a helpful ear of support, make sure the patient understands her treatment options, and assist the patient and her family throughout diagnosis and treatment.

The Nurse Navigator will make sure patients are well-versed on the many services offered through our Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic, where women learn about breast cancer and about the choices women have for treatment. The multidisciplinary approach means one program in which patients can find a radiation oncologist, breast cancer surgeon, medical oncologist, educator and support group.

The specialists meet with each patient, then meet with other members of the team. Based on all of the available information, they make a recommendation for treatment and share it with the woman and her family before they leave the center.

There is no one-size-fits-all for treatment. That’s why we offer a variety of options, from radiation to chemotherapy to anti-hormonal treatments to clinical trials using the latest technology and evidence-based medicine.

Treatment is only part of the equation. Our Women’s Informational Network and Support (WINS) group has met monthly for more than two decades to allow women to share their frustrations, fears and discoveries about dealing with the disease.

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Mid-Michigan has also helped fund our Healthy Steps exercise program.

Healthy Steps uses the Lebed Method, utilizing smooth and slow movements that are gentle and easy to complete. It’s specifically designed for women who have had breast surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.

It helps participants regain range of motion, increase flexibility, dampen depression and promote a positive self-image.

All of these programs and initiatives are meant to guide women through an often numbing process. We at Sparrow are aiming to give them hope and allow them to realize they will get the best, most compassionate treatment possible in their community, close to home, in their fight against breast cancer.

James G. Herman, MD is medical director of the Sparrow Cancer Center. He has been a member of the oncology team at the cancer center since 1983. He also is an assistant professor at Michigan State University and Wayne State University.