Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center

12/11/2025

Congratulations to Joshua Mammen, MD, PhD, on completing his first year as chair of the American College of Surgeons ACSPA-SurgeonsPAC Board.

Dr. Mammen, chief of surgical oncology at UNMC and physician-in-chief of the National Cancer Institute-designated Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, champions policies that protect patients, strengthen surgical care, and expand access to high-quality treatment. Read the full story: https://go.unmc.edu/apdk

12/10/2025

Even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms, regular cancer screenings are essential to catch any hidden signs early. Talking with your doctor about your personal and family cancer history helps ensure you get the screening plan that’s right for you.

Some screenings have been proven to detect cancer early and reduce the risk, including:

✅ Mammograms for breast cancer

✅ Sigmoidoscopy and f***l occult blood testing for colorectal cancer

Prioritize your health—schedule your screenings and stay proactive!

12/08/2025

Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center researchers, Mariah Jackson, PhD, MMN, RDN, LMNT, and Dr. Dana Verhoeven, PhD, have received a one-year NIH grant to address obesity as a risk factor for cancer.

Obesity is linked to at least 13 types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and pancreatic cancer. In Nebraska, rural and frontier communities face unique challenges that make obesity and its associated cancer risks even more pronounced.

Drs. Jackson and Verhoeven will use the data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and partner with Nebraska Extension to engage communities. “We have a diverse array of communities across Nebraska — urban, rural and frontier. We want to understand all aspects of what would help people where they are,” says Dr. Jackson. Read more: https://go.unmc.edu/dytq

12/04/2025

There are many ways to treat pancreatic cancer, and treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s needs, including the stage of cancer and individual treatment goals. Treatments can also address symptoms and pain management to help patients feel their best.

While pancreatic cancer can be challenging, advances in medicine and research are helping more people fight it successfully.

12/03/2025

A new multi-institutional study, co-authored by Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center researcher Tahir Tahirov, PhD, published in Science Advances, sheds light on how herpes viruses replicate and survive inside the body, offering important clues that may guide the development of more effective antiviral therapies.

The study identifies mechanisms that herpes viruses use to maintain infection — discoveries that could help shape future treatment strategies and potentially improve outcomes for millions of people affected.

Read more: https://go.unmc.edu/9t5v

The team determined the structure of the helicase-primase complex, offering a target for future antiviral therapies.

12/02/2025

We were honored to have Chris Draft former NFL player and co-founder of the Chris Draft Family Foundation, visit the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center. His passion for raising awareness about lung cancer and supporting patients, survivors, and families is truly inspiring. Read more about his visit: https://go.unmc.edu/2hma

11/30/2025

Pancreatic cancer can be difficult to detect because its symptoms often overlap with other abdominal or digestive conditions. Being aware of risk factors and paying attention to changes in your body can help with early detection and prompt conversations with your doctor.

11/29/2025

Lung cancer screening is rarely talked about, despite how important it is! Early stage lung cancer often has no symptoms, so screenings can be the only way to catch it before it spreads. Yearly low-dose CT (LDCT) scans help lower the risk of dying from lung cancer for high-risk people (50-80 years old, history of smoking).

11/27/2025

Pass the stuffing, pass the smiles… and maybe pass along a fun family story or two! Wishing you a cozy, laughter-filled Thanksgiving!

11/27/2025

We are grateful to the Centris Federal Credit Union team for their inspiring commitment to advancing cancer research. 💜

Each year, Centris employees select a meaningful cause to support through t-shirt sales. This year, they chose the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center—each shirt symbolizing hope and dedication to a healthier future.

With employee participation and a generous Centris match, a total of $5,000 was raised to support innovative cancer research.

Thank you to everyone at Centris for helping make a difference in the fight against cancer. Your partnership and generosity bring us one step closer to better treatments and brighter outcomes for patients.💜

11/25/2025

Pancreatic cancer is easier to address when we stay informed and attentive to our physical health. Although early symptoms may be subtle, paying attention to changes in your body and knowing what to look for can support earlier conversations with your doctor. Awareness and proactive care play an important role in improving outcomes.

Always talk to your doctor about your personal risk.

Possible Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer:
• Belly pain
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Light-colored or floating stools
• Dark-colored urine
• New diagnosis of diabetes or diabetes that's getting harder to control
• Pain or swelling in an arm or leg (possible blood clot)
• Persistent tiredness or weakness

Early detection saves lives. 💜
Help us raise awareness by sharing this post.

11/24/2025

Do you know if you should be screened for lung cancer? Many people in Nebraska aren’t aware of the screening guidelines or who qualifies. Our expert breaks down lung cancer screening and criteria—helping you stay informed and proactive about your lung health.