CANCERS WE TREAT
The Cancer Network of West Michigan is a collaboration of two local, award-winning health systems — Trinity Health and University of Michigan Health-West. Working alongside University of Michigan Health, we’re making it easier to access outstanding cancer care.
Our expertise spans many types of cancer, including common, rare and complex diagnoses. These capabilities make it easier to receive the high-quality services you deserve close to home. We deliver comprehensive care, including advanced options for breast cancer, brain tumors, gastrointestinal cancers, melanoma and more.
Brain & Nervous System
We are among the few programs in the region with a doctor specializing in these conditions — a neuro-oncologist. You also benefit from the expertise of cancer specialists from Trinity Health and University of Michigan Health-West.
What are brain & nervous system tumors?
Brain and nervous system tumors are abnormal growths that may or may not be cancerous. Tumors in these areas can become large enough to press on sensitive tissue and affect basic nervous system functioning. This is why it’s essential to seek care from a team of specialists, such as the experts at the Cancer Network.
Brain and nervous system tumors we treat include:
- Acoustic neuroma – noncancerous tumors that develop in the nerves that support balance and hearing
- Glioblastoma – fast-growing cancer that can quickly invade nearby brain tissue
- Glioma – tumors in glial cells, which cause dysfunction in the brain and spine
- Meningioma – a common tumor that starts in the brain and spinal cord’s protective covering
- Metastatic brain tumors – cancerous growths that start in a different area of the body and spread to the brain
- Neurofibromatosis – a genetic disorder that causes nervous system tumors
- Spinal cord tumors – abnormal growths, which may or may not be cancerous, and can develop anywhere along the spinal cord
- Pituitary tumors – abnormal growths of the pituitary gland that may or may not be cancerous
Breast Cancer
Learning you have breast cancer can come as a shock. When you turn to the Cancer Network of West Michigan, you receive services from a team that cares about you as an individual.
We offer more of the treatments you need to reclaim your health and peace of mind. Our commitment to excellence helps patients receive the best care possible.
Nationally recognized breast cancer services in west Michigan:
Cancer Network breast cancer experts deliver outstanding care. Our commitment to high-quality services has earned many of our locations prestigious recognition from the:
- American College of Radiology
- National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC®)
- National Quality Measures for Breast Centers® (NQMBC)
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Gastrointestinal cancer is a group of cancers affecting the digestive system. When you receive services at the Cancer Network of West Michigan, you are in caring and capable hands. You have access to leading therapies from trusted organizations without traveling far. Our commitment to high-quality cancer care helps us maintain national recognition.
What are gastrointestinal (GI) cancers?
Cancer develops when abnormal cells grow out of control. These growths can occur along any part of your digestive tract, including the:
- Esophagus
- Stomach
- Liver and bile ducts
- Pancreas
- Small Intestine
- Colon
- Rectum
- Anus
Gynecologic Cancer
Gynecologic cancers affect female reproductive organs and require specialized care. The Cancer Network of West Michigan is putting these services within reach, right in our community.
We are one of the only programs in the region whose team includes gynecologic cancer doctors (gynecologic oncologists). You also benefit from the combined expertise of cancer specialists from Trinity Health and University of Michigan Health-West. These capabilities are giving more women hope for healing.
What is gynecologic cancer?
Gynecologic cancer includes many diseases of the female reproductive organs and occurs when abnormal cells multiply in a woman’s:
- Uterus – as well as the endometrium or inner lining of the uterus
- Cervix – the lower part of the uterus
- Ovaries – glands that produce hormones as well as eggs
- Vagina – muscular canal connecting the cervix to an external opening
- Vulva – external genitalia
Head & Neck Cancer
Head and neck cancers affect delicate tissues you need to speak, swallow and eat. When you come to the Cancer Network of West Michigan, you receive more of the services you need close to home. Our unwavering focus on quality and safety helps more patients achieve outstanding results.
What Is head and neck cancer?
This group of cancers affects soft tissues behind your face, below your brain or in the upper throat. Head and neck cancer can occur in your:
- Nasal cavity – inner part of the nose
- Oral cavity – including the lips, inside of the cheeks and front two-thirds of the tongue
- Oropharyngeal cancer – found in an area of the throat called your oropharynx
- Salivary glands
- Sinuses – air pockets behind your nose and forehead that support air flow and produce mucus
- Throat – including your windpipe and voice box
- Tonsils (adenoids)
Lung Cancer
The Cancer Network of West Michigan is the only program in the region with experts specializing in lung cancer and lung nodules. We offer sophisticated tests and treatments that lead to precise care.
Melanoma & Other Skin Cancer
Anyone can get skin cancer — whether you are young or old, spend most of your time indoors or are outside all summer. Receiving timely care gives you the best chances of healing. And that’s precisely what you’ll find with the Cancer Network of West Michigan.
We make it easier than ever to get nationally recognized skin cancer treatment right in your community. You receive services from trusted surgeons and other cancer specialists, along with the support you deserve.
Skin cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow rapidly. As skin cancer progresses, it penetrates deeper layers of skin and can spread to other organs. But early detection and treatment can help you become cancer-free.
Types of skin cancer we treat include:
- Basal cell carcinoma – the most common type, forms in cells that produce new layers of skin.
- Melanoma – the most aggressive form, develops in cells that give skin color (melanocytes) and spreads quickly.
- Squamous cell carcinoma – the second most common type, develops in the middle and outer layer of skin cells.
Urological Cancer
Urologic cancer is a group of conditions affecting the urinary tract. It can also occur in organs of the male reproductive system. The Cancer Network of West Michigan enables you to receive care where you’re most comfortable, near home and loved ones. You receive award-winning services and leading therapies from programs you already know and trust.
What Is Urologic Cancer?
Cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow out of control. With urologic cancer, these growths may affect the:
- Adrenal glands, which are on top of the kidneys
- Bladder
- Kidneys
- Penis
- Prostate
- Testes