Cancer Center Offers New Ongoing Classes, Programs, Events

The Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center invites you to join our newest ongoing classes, programs and events that can serve as a support to you and your family, including yoga and meditation, caregiver support groups, pressure point classes, and writing workshops. All are open to the public, free of charge, and are offered on a regularly-scheduled basis. Participants are welcome to attend any amount of sessions. Pre-registering is appreciated, but not necessary.

• Yoga and Mindful Meditation: Alternating Mondays 5:00-6:30pm; starting January 16^th. Bring your own mat and dress comfortably. Open to the public.
• Caregiver Support Group: Wednesdays 11am-noon; starting January 18^th. This is a support group specifically for those supporting and caregiving for cancer patients.
• Pressure Points Class: Thursdays 10-11am; starting January 19^th. Learn how to use reflexology and acupuncture points to ease issues like nausea, anxiety, and pain. Open to the public.
• The Power of the Pen-Healing Through Writing: Second Thursdays (monthly) 6pm; starting February 9^th. Writing workshops open to cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and those affected by cancer.

All events are held at the Alan B. Pearson Cancer Center at 1701 Thomson Drive, Lynchburg Va 24501.

For more information or to pre-register for any of these events, please call 434.200.6093, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or visit our website at cancer.centrahealth.com.

New Screening for Early Detection of Lung Cancer

A screening program aimed at early detection of lung cancer in current or former heavy smokers is now offered through Central Virginia Imaging, part of Radiology Consultants of Lynchburg. The screening program uses a low-dose CT scan to detect modules in the lungs that might indicate cancer. The eligible candidates for screening include men and women, ages 55 to 74, with no prior history, signs or symptoms of lung cancer, and a 30 pack-year history of smoking. Pack year demographics are as follows: one pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years, two packs a day for 15 years, or three packs a day for 10 years. People who have lived with longtime smokers and have experienced decades of second-hand exposure may be qualified, but are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Even if a patient meets these criteria, there are other factors that would render them ineligible for the screening study.  These include being on home oxygen therapy for a chronic lung condition, spitting up blood, prior lung surgery (excluding biopsies), having a chest CT in the preceding 18 months, and a previous history of cancer, with the exception of skin cancer. 

“If it’s a positive study, meaning we see a nodule or area of concern, the patient is notified and given an appointment for a follow-up routine CT scan to perform a diagnostic study,” said Dr. Richard Newton, M.D., a radiologist with Central Virginia Imaging.

One thing patients need to know from the start is that screening is an out-of-pocket expense. Screenings cost $225 each. Follow-up diagnostic studies and subsequent treatment if they prove necessary may be covered by insurance. Participation in the screening program does not require a doctor’s referral. 

For more information about the screening for you, a friend, or family member, or to schedule an appointment, call Centra Virginia Imaging at 434.237.4091.

Recently diagnosed with Prostate Cancer?

Centra uses a multi-disciplinary approach towards treating prostate cancer. A patient and his family will meet with several members of the Centra Prostate Health Center team to determine the best approach to treat his disease. The Center's team has vast experience in the options available in the treatment of prostate cancer, with proven quality in outcomes equaling some of the best centers in the country.

 Prostate Cancer Brochure