Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology

03/13/2026

We’re proud to announce that Shannon La Cava, PsyD, Senior Director of the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, will be the Keynote Speaker at the 2026 Women’s Cancer Survivors Conference on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Dr. La Cava is a clinical psychologist and nationally recognized leader in integrative and psychosocial oncology. At UCLA Health, she oversees a multidisciplinary team of 40+ clinicians providing compassionate, whole-person care to individuals and families impacted by cancer.

We’re honored to see her leadership and expertise highlighted at this important event focused on survivorship, connection, and healing.

Learn more about the conference here: https://www.womenscancersurvivorsconference.com/

📅 Saturday, April 18, 2026
🎤 Keynote Address: Shannon La Cava, PsyD

03/06/2026

Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can often be prevented through screening — yet far too many people aren’t getting screened on time. In the latest episode of UCLA Health’s Medically Speaking, Dr. Eve Glazier welcomes back the show’s very first guest, award-winning journalist, Katie Couric, along with Fola May, MD, PhD, UCLA gastroenterologist, and researcher, to discuss what’s changed in the conversation around colorectal cancer.

They cover why screening matters more than ever, symptoms to watch for, how to choose the right screening, and the barriers that prevent follow-through. Awareness is just the first step — turning it into action can save lives.

Tune in for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month! 💙

Follow UCLA Health Medically Speaking for more. Get the podcast here: https://linktr.ee/uclahealthmedicallyspeaking

03/03/2026

March at Simms/Mann UCLA: Support & Education for Your Cancer Journey

Explore expert-led sessions designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Join us this March to connect, learn, and find strength.

Cultural Considerations in Nutrition and Cancer
March 19, 2026 | 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Dive into cultural adaptations, food safety, and alternative therapies in oncology nutrition to support your unique needs.

Stillness & Strength: A Breathwork Group
Wednesdays in March | 12:00 – 1:00 PM (4-week virtual series)
Learn gentle breathwork techniques to ease anxiety, fatigue, and emotional challenges during cancer treatment.

Expert-Led Nutrition for Breast Cancer Patients
Wednesdays in March | 9:00 – 9:30 AM
Join focused group sessions with evidence-based nutrition guidance for during and after breast cancer treatment.

Navigating GI Cancer: UCLA Resources & Support
First Wednesday Monthly | 12:30 – 1:30 PM
Discover supportive care services including palliative care, nutrition, and psychosocial support for GI cancer patients and caregivers.

Advance Care Planning for Oncology Patients
First Wednesday Monthly | 6:00 – 7:00 PM
Gain peace of mind with guidance on care planning to help loved ones make decisions if you’re unable.

Register & learn more by clicking here: https://ucla.in/4fpZFlK

02/28/2026

Looking for a happier, more grounded 2026? 💙

UCLA Health psychologist Dr. Valentina Ogaryan shares nine simple, research-backed ways to support your mental and emotional well-being — from prioritizing sleep and movement to practicing self-compassion and connection.

These small, intentional habits can help create more calm, centeredness and joy all year long.
👉 Read more:

Breadcrumb Home News & Insights Nine mental-health tips for a happier 2026 Move, play, sleep and anchor yourself in calm. Psychologist Valentina Ogaryan offers a guide for creating calm, centeredness and happiness in 2026. December 30, 2025 By Sandy Cohen, Senior Writer 6 min read Regardless of any....

02/20/2026

🥗 Quick & Easy Caesar Dressing

Looking for a simple, flavorful dressing to brighten your salads? Our Quick & Easy Caesar Dressing is creamy, tangy, and ready in just 10 minutes!

Made with:
• Hummus & olive oil for creaminess
• Garlic & capers for bold flavor
• Lemon juice + zest for a fresh zing
• A hint of maple syrup to balance

Perfect for salads, roasted veggies, or grain bowls, and it keeps 5–7 days in the fridge.

Try it today and make your meals a little brighter! Get the complete recipe here: https://ucla.in/3ZHtWp3

02/14/2026

💙 Valentine’s Day Support: Men’s Group for Partners of People with Cancer
Valentine’s Day is about love — and that includes caring for yourself while supporting a loved one. Our Men’s Group, led by Stephen Lottenberg, MD, PsyD, provides a virtual, safe space for spouses and partners of cancer patients to connect, share experiences, and build resilience.

In this group, men can:
• Share challenges and bond with others in similar situations
• Learn how to communicate effectively with their loved one and medical team
• Focus on stress reduction and self-growth

📅 Meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays each month, 4:30–6:00 PM
📍 Virtual

To register, call 310-794-6644 or email simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu

Click here to learn more: https://ucla.in/4kFeIug

02/11/2026

🎨 Art Therapy Workshop – February 12
Join us for a virtual Art Therapy Workshop where participants will explore creativity as a tool for growth, healing, and self-expression.

Facilitated by Paige Asawa, PhD, MFT, ATR-BC, this workshop includes:
• Creative projects using a variety of art processes
• Opportunities to reflect on and share your artwork
• A supportive environment to hear others’ experiences

No prior art experience or professional supplies are necessary.

📅 Date: February 12, 2026
⏰ Time: 12:00–1:00 PM
📍 Location: Virtual

To register or learn more, email simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu

02/04/2026

💙 World Cancer Day: United by Unique
On World Cancer Day, we recognize and honor the diverse experiences of individuals and families affected by cancer.

The theme United by Unique places people at the center of care — reminding us that every person’s journey is deeply personal, and that meaningful change happens when we embrace and uplift those individual stories.

At the Simms/Mann UCLA Center for Integrative Oncology, we are privileged to support patients and loved ones throughout their unique paths.
We invite you to read the stories shared by our community on our website — reflections of resilience, vulnerability, and strength – click here: https://ucla.in/4r0fUef

Together, we are united.

02/03/2026

🌱 National Cancer Prevention Month: Learn How to Reduce Your Risk
Did you know lifestyle choices play a meaningful role in cancer prevention? Our recorded webinar, Cancer Risk Reduction, explores practical, evidence-based strategies to support long-term health.

Facilitated by Emma Veilleux, RDN, Senior Dietitian at the Simms/Mann Center, the webinar covers:
• Nutrition and diet tips
• Physical activity recommendations
• Stress management strategies
• The importance of sleep in prevention

Whether you’re looking to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or prevent it altogether, these insights can help you make informed, healthy choices.

📺 Watch the recording on our website and start your prevention journey today: https://ucla.in/4q9KGzR

01/14/2026

Looking for a simple, nourishing meal that comes together in about 30 minutes?
Our Easy Chickpea & Kale Stew is filled with plant-based protein, hearty vegetables, and warm flavors that support well-being during and after cancer treatment.

This one-pot recipe is gentle on the stomach, budget-friendly, and easy to customize based on what you have at home. Perfect for patients, caregivers, or anyone wanting a wholesome meal.

Try the recipe and let us know what you think - click here:

This easy Chickpea & Kale Stew from Simms/Mann is a nourishing, one-pot meal packed with plant-based protein and fiber, perfect for cancer patients looking for a warm, comforting, and low-fat option.

01/13/2026

Introducing Caregiver Corner, our new virtual support group for those supporting a loved one with cancer.

Led by Emily Goldin, LCSW, this weekly group offers community, coping skills, and a supportive space to share experiences.

🗓 Mondays | 3–4:30 PM
📞 310-794-6644 | simmsmanncenter@mednet.ucla.edu

Click here to learn more and enroll: https://ucla.in/4sDPiRm

01/09/2026

🌙 Support for Dry January: Why Cutting Back on Alcohol Matters

Most people know that smoking causes cancer — but far fewer realize that alcohol is also a carcinogen, with no level of consumption proven safe.

In our newest article, Senior Dietitian Emma Veilleux, RDN, explains how alcohol affects cancer risk, why even small reductions can make a difference, and how Dry or “damp” January can help build healthier long-term habits.

📌 What you’ll learn:
• Alcohol’s link to at least seven types of cancer
• Why cutting back — even a little — lowers risk
• How alcohol affects hormones, DNA repair, and nutrient absorption
• Benefits beyond cancer prevention, including better sleep and reduced inflammation

It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. What we do consistently matters most.

Read the full article: https://ucla.in/4pBCTKZ