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Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Instite

Contact Information

4100 John R Street Detroit, MI 48201
(800) 527-6266

Residents living in Michigan who suffer from mesothelioma and other cancers should know that the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute is the only hospital in Michigan with a sole focus on cancer. It is designated by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as one of only 40 full service comprehensive cancer centers (CCC) that offer complete care for cancer patients. There is only one other hospital in Michigan that is designated as a comprehensive cancer center.

A popular slogan at Karmanos Cancer Center says, “When cancer strikes, your first chance is your best chance.” This indicates the positive enthusiasm that is prevalent at this cancer center and encourages patients to start care immediately.

Karmanos is repeatedly rated as one of the nation’s best cancer centers and is on the list of “most preferred hospital in southeast Michigan” for its cancer care programs and research. It serves over 6,000 new cancer patients annually. With a budget of over $216 million, Karmanos Cancer Institute runs over 700 scientific investigation programs specifically dealing with cancer.

The hospital staff of 1,000 includes almost 300 faculty members from the Wayne State University School of Medicine. With thousands of additional volunteers and monetary donors, this hospital is a leader for breakthroughs in prevention, detection and elimination of cancerous diseases. The hospital’s mission statement restates that objective. Their long term goal and commitment is complete elimination of cancer in the future.

Maintaining their honorable position as an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC) requires constant service to the population and improvements in research and education. The facility offers research, diagnostics, laboratory services, clinical trials, and research into behaviors of the population. Local and statewide outreach and education efforts disseminate information about medical advances to the public and health care professionals.

Clinical trials are an important segment of any CCC operation. Research on cancer does lead to early-phase clinical trials and medical innovation. Karmanos is honored to be among just 16 programs in the nation that are funded by the National Cancer Institute. The clinical trials and research done here allow patients to have excellent options for treatment. They also have the benefit of fast access to the most recent improvements in cancer-fighting drugs and therapies.

As part of their service to the community and patients, Karmanos Cancer Center offers education, hospice programs and support groups. Patients can receive information and assistance identifying helpful resources in the metropolitan Detroit area.

Known for their innovative treatment methods and research, Karmanos was part of the development of seven of the newest FDA-approved anti-cancer drugs. The National Center for Vermiculite and Asbestos-Related Cancers is located at Karmanos Cancer Institute, a very relevant center for those battling mesothelioma. The hospital also houses the J.P. McCarthy Cord Stem Cell Bank. This non-profit organization stores over 1,200 umbilical cord blood units for medical use.

State-of-the-art technology is created here as well. Molecular imaging, cryotheraphy, gamma radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy, and genetic counseling are Karmanos' leading edge specialties. Studies conducted here on lymphedema management can benefit almost any post-operative patient. The hospital shares information and works on joint programs with other science cancer care facilities in the nearby region.

Multidisciplinary teams of medical experts are improving cancer treatments and surgical procedures at Karmanos Cancer Institute. Benefits include advances in surgical techniques using minimally invasive procedures and percutaneous cryotheraphy. The later technique results in destruction of diseased tissue through the use of extreme cold temperatures. Patients treated this way have a faster recovery time.