Early Detection and Prevention Services

UPMC Cancer Centers Early Detection and Prevention Services are provided by the Ladies Hospital Aid Society of Western Pennsylvania (LHASWP) Early Detection and Prevention Center (EDPC) and by Behavioral Medicine Clinical Service. Many services are part of ongoing research projects and are free of charge. The EDPC provides a variety of screenings for:

• breast cancer
• gynecological cancers
• colorectal cancers
• prostate cancer
• lung cancer
• melanoma
• smoking prevention and cessation services
• weight management and exercise programs
• other preventive services.

LHASWP Early Detection and Prevention Center

The Early Detection and Prevention Center, partially supported by the Ladies Hospital Aid Society of western Pennsylvania (LHASWP), provides comprehensive cancer prevention, early detection, screening and educational services. Persons undergo a thorough screening which includes the completion of a health assessment questionnaire that identifies risk factors; a physical examination, including a pelvic exam for women; and education counseling.

Based upon the person's age, gender, family history and physical examination, the staff may recommend additional cancer screening examinations. These may include fecal occult blood tests, mammography, flexible sigmoidoscopy, prostate-specific antigen blood test and Pap smears. Referrals to other medical resources are provided as needed. The Early Detection and Prevention Center also provides cancer screenings in the community via the Highmark Blue Cross "Healthplace on the Move" mobile facility.

Phone:

412-623-5900

African American Cancer Program

The African American Cancer Program focuses on western Pennsylvania's African American population, whose cancer education, diagnostic and treatment needs often go undetected or unaddressed for a variety of socioeconomic reasons. UPMC Cancer Centers is addressing the problems of higher cancer morbidity and mortality in the regional African American population through efforts to increase awareness of cancer prevention and early detection strategies. By identifying and eliminating barriers that prevent African Americans from obtaining access to cancer diagnostic and treatment services, the Program reaches out to offer cancer screenings in Homewood, Braddock, Duquesne and Aliquippa; self-help groups for African American cancer survivors; educational programs offered throughout the year; the annual "Celebration of Life" for African American cancer survivors; and referral through the Cancer Awareness coalition, composed of more than 15 health care and community organizations within Allegheny County.

Phone:

412-647-1809

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For more information about any of the services available at UPMC Cancer Centers, please call the UPMC Cancer Centers Information and Referral Service at 412-647-2811 or send us an e-mail via "Ask a Question Online."

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