Stomach cancer—which is different than colorectal cancer and includes cancers that begin in the stomach, esophagus or the junctions of those two organs—is actually the fourth most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer death.
However, it’s not as common in the developed world. The American Cancer Society estimates that the lifetime risk of a person in the U.S. developing stomach cancer is about 1 in 114 (the risk is slightly higher for men than women). But that isn’t keeping a Davie-based nonprofit from raising awareness.
Can’t Stomach Cancer: The Foundation of Debbie’s Dream was founded byDebbie Zelman (pictured) in 2009 after she was diagnosed with stage IV stomach cancer the prior year. The organization is dedicated to raising international awareness, advancing funding for research and providing education and support to patients, families and caregivers.
The foundation has announced several fundraising and awareness-building events in November (which is stomach cancer awareness month)—including one in Delray Beach. Starting Monday, Nov. 5 and running throughout the month, Union Restaurant (8 E. Atlantic Ave.) will donate 15 percent of its sales to Can’t Stomach Cancer for all patrons who mention the nonprofit by name.
For more information about Can’t Stomach Cancer events, call 954/475-1200 or visit the website. For general information on stomach cancer, check out the American Cancer Society’s link on the subject.
In other health news:
• West Boca Medical Center is holding an AARP Driver’s Safety Course this Friday (Nov. 2) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at West Boca Medical Center’s education facility (21644 State Road 7). The cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-AARP members. To make your reservation, call 866/904-9262.
• Delray Medical Center (5352 Linton Blvd.) was named one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals and earned five-star ratings for orthopedic surgery, stroke care and general surgery, according to the American Hospital Quality Outcomes 2013: Healthgrades Report to the Nation. This report evaluates quality at about 4,500 hospitals nationwide, for nearly 30 common conditions and procedures. According to the Healthgrades report, the risk of death is 61 percent lower at a five-star hospital when compared with a one-star hospital.
The 2013 performance outcomes are now available free to the public atwww.healthgrades.com. For more information, call the hospital at 561/498-4440 or visit delraymedicalctr.com.
