UT Health RGV cancer experts share blood cancer care advances

September is National Blood Cancer Awareness Month

By Heriberto Perez–Zuñiga

For Dr. Everardo Cobos, medical oncologist and hematologist at UT Health RGV, the fight against cancer has been a lifelong commitment.

“In 1985, I saw my first leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma (blood cancer) patients during my oncology (cancer care and treatment) fellowship,” said Cobos, chair of the Department of Medicine and Oncology at the UTRGV School of Medicine and director of the Cancer Service Line at UTRGV’s Cancer and Surgery Center.

“Back then, treatments were limited and outcomes were grim. It took decades of research to truly grasp the biology, genetics and molecular mechanisms behind these diseases,” he said.

Fast-forward 40 years, and treatment options have vastly improved, thanks in part to increased awareness and ongoing research.

September marks Blood Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize the advancements and continue the fight for prevention, treatment and cure.

UNDERSTANDING BLOOD CANCERS

According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, more than 176,000 people in the United States each year are diagnosed with some form of blood cancer.

Due to limited access to care, historically underserved communities like the Rio Grande Valley are often disproportionately affected.

Blood cancers, which include leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma, often originate in the blood or bone marrow, leading to the production of abnormal blood cells that disrupt the body’s normal functions.

While these diseases can be life-threatening, early detection and significant advances in treatment have greatly improved survival rates.

“Recognizing symptoms like persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or frequent infections can lead to an earlier diagnosis,” Cobos said. “Today, we have more targeted therapies that provide better outcomes with fewer side effects. We’re able to offer patients more options and a better quality of life.”

In the Valley, where cancer rates continue to pose a significant challenge, the opening of the UT Health RGV Cancer and Surgery Center in 2025 will provide greater access to comprehensive cancer care for the Valley.

VALLEY CANCER CARE

The UT Health Cancer and Surgery Center, to be located at 1400 N. Commerce St. in McAllen, will offer state-of-the-art cancer treatment, including advanced chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation therapy, along with surgical oncology services.

The facility will bring world-class cancer care to the Valley, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized treatment.

Daniel Hernandez, manager of Oncology Pharmacy Services at UT Health RGV, said the increased access to comprehensive cancer care the UTRGV center will provide has been needed for a long time in the area.

“This will be a game changer for our community,” he said. “By offering comprehensive cancer care under one roof, we are ensuring that our patients receive the best possible treatment – from diagnosis to recovery – without having to leave the Valley.”

The addition of oncology pharmacy services will allow patients to receive personalized medication therapies tailored to their specific needs, improving outcomes and reducing treatment side effects, he said.

“It’s about the entire team,” Hernandez said. “Instead of handling medication issues over the phone, we can address questions face-to-face with colleagues like Dr. Cobos. This includes everyone involved in patient care, from phlebotomists to billing staff. We are providing a comprehensive, team-based approach that has been long overdue for patients in the RGV.”

For more information on cancer care or to schedule an appointment with a specialist, visit UTHealthRGV.org.