Prevention, Education and Support 

At Sentara, our mission is to educate our patients and the community about the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.

We sponsor and participate in numerous classes and outreach programs to promote education at community events.

For more information about cancer care at Sentara, call 888-220-2214. This toll-free number is your link to cancer education, physician referral, support groups and all other cancer inquiries.

Support Groups
Sentara sponsors on-going support groups for cancer patients and family members. Support groups offered include:

Breast Cancer Support Groups

Online Breast Cancer Support Group

Bereavement Support Group

Colorectal Cancer Support Group

Lost Chord Club

Man-to-Man - Prostate cancer education and support

Classes and Events

Look Good, Feel Better Program
Take part in a free, community-based services that teaches female cancer patients beauty techniques to help restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Get Off Your Butt! Smoking Cessation Program
A four-week education and support program for people who want to quit smoking. This program is for both the first time quitter and for individuals who have attempted to quit before.

See all current cancer-related classes and events 

Prevention and Screening 

Review cancer screening guidelines 

Find community screening programs and events


Sentara Cancer Resource Centers
When you or a loved one has been touched by cancer, you can’t have too much information. Sentara understands your need to know as much as possible about your condition and how to treat it. That’s why we make available to the community several comprehensive Cancer Resource Centers. 

Locations & Contact Information 


Patient Navigators
Sentara employs medical professional called Patient Navigators to help support and guide patients through the treatment process from diagnosis to recovery. 

Contact a Patient Navigator


Coping with Cancer

Managing Side Effects
Cancer treatments are made to destroy cells, so the most common side effects involve the part of the body where cells divide rapidly, including blood cells, cells around the mouth, throat and stomach, and hair follicles. Find ways to manage the side effects and make you as comfortable as possible.

Nutrition
Eating the right kinds of food before, during and after your cancer treatment can help you feel better and stay stronger.

Coping with Hair Loss
Not all cancer treatments will make you lose your hair, but it can be devastating for those who do. Find ways to minimize and deal with hair loss during your treatment.

Role of Caregivers
Those who serve as caregivers should also look out for their own physical, mental and emotional well-being. Sentara offers resources for caregivers, family and friends of those affected by cancer.