Norton Cancer Institute Prevention & Early Detection Program

The cancer prevention and early detection program provides free cancer screenings, individual comprehensive cancer risk assessments and community risk reduction education. The first of its kind in this region, the program combines all of the pieces of comprehensive cancer screening, testing, assessment and follow-up into one convenient service for patients. Patients also may benefit from the expertise of a genetic counselor that can help determine risks for various cancers based on a patient’s family history. Currently, the program focuses on cancers of the breast, skin, prostate, colon and cervix.

2008 Governor's "Dignity of Humanity" Award

We are proud to announce that Norton Cancer Institute Prevention & Early Detection Program received the 2008 Governor’s “Dignity of Humanity” Award 
from Medical News at the second annual MediStar Awards Gala. 

The Governor’s Award is presented to a nonprofit organization or foundation that, through its mission and actions, has improved availability and/or access to health care services for our region’s underserved or vulnerable populations.  Sandra E. Brooks, M.D., associate vice president, Cancer Prevention and Early Detection, accepted the award presented by Lt. Gov. Daniel Mongiardo, M.D.  This award is an important recognition of the tremendous efforts of the dedicated and talented team of professionals who make up Norton Cancer Institute. It also acknowledges the vision of Norton Healthcare’s leadership, who committed an additional $100 million to the fight against cancer in January 2007.

Please join us in congratulating the Norton Cancer Institute team on this prestigious award.

Free Community Cancer Screening

Free breast, cervical and prostate cancer screenings are regularly available throughout the area. If you are over the age of 40 and have not had one of these screenings in the last year, call (502) 629-1234 to schedule a free screening.

Referrals will be provided to those individuals over the age of 50 who have not had a colonoscopy.

Comprehensive Cancer Risk Assessment

This examination is provided by a cancer prevention specialist. It consists of a complete cancer risk assessment, appropriate screenings and an evaluation by a genetic counselor, if necessary. If, based on the evaluation, a specific diagnostic exam or procedure is recommended, those appointments will be scheduled for the patient by the cancer prevention and early detection office. On-going care and follow-up are available for every patient who receives the comprehensive cancer risk assessment. This service does not require age or health pre-requisites to participate, but is extremely beneficial to those individuals with a family history of cancer. This appointment is considered a physician office visit and is billed accordingly. At the time of the visit patients are responsible for their co-pay as outlined by their individual insurance provider.  If you are interested in a comprehensive cancer risk assessment but do not have insurance, please call (502) 899-6888 to speak with a financial counselor.

If you are interested in receiving more information on the comprehensive cancer risk assessment or would like to schedule an appointment with a cancer prevention specialist, call (502) 629-1234 .

Cancer Screening Guidelines

Cancer screening requirements are based on guidelines provided by the American Cancer Society. To learn more about the recommended guidelines please see the Norton Cancer Institute Prevention & Early Detection  Screening guidelines for Cancer Prevention .

Norton Cancer Institute Prevention & Early Detection Leadership & Staff

Sandra E. Brooks, M.D., MBA , Gynecologic Oncologist Associate Vice President, Norton Cancer Institute Dr. Brooks received her Bachelor of Science and medical degrees in a six-year combined program at Howard University. She then completed her OB/GYN residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and fellowship in gynecologic oncology at Harvard University’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Dr. Brooks also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Johns Hopkins University. She is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and gynecologic oncology. Dr. Brooks specializes in cancerous and precancerous conditions of the female reproductive tract and is the medical director of the cancer prevention and early detection program.