OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center

22/07/2025

Professor of microbiology and immunology at The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine and recent National Academy of Sciences inductee Rodney Tweten, Ph.D., and his lab recently discovered that some of the good bacteria in our gut have a natural way of fighting harmful bacteria. Now, scientists are using that same trick to fight cancer.

They’ve found a way to guide bacteria “weapons” to target and destroy cancer cells without harming healthy cells.

This groundbreaking discovery – transforming gut bacteria’s natural defenses into a promising new way to fight cancer – highlights the powerful impact of OU Health and the University of Oklahoma’s united mission to advance research, improve patient care, and educate the next generation of medical leaders.

Innovative studies like this could lead to new treatments that are more precise and gentle, especially after surgery, to help stop cancer from coming back. It’s still being tested, but it’s a hopeful step toward better, smarter cancer care.

17/07/2025

OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center recently hosted guests from the American Cancer Society, including Dr. Ellie Daniels, Vice President of Innovation in Cancer Research Training, for a site visit.

Comprised of The University of Oklahoma faculty and OU Health physicians, our team shared the latest innovations in cancer research training and education made possible through our partnership with the American Cancer Society and their institutional research grants. Their support is integral to helping us further our mission to provide high-quality, research-driven care to our patients.

15/07/2025

Researchers at The University of Oklahoma and the TSET Health Promotion Research Center have received $5.6 million in funding, including a four-year, $4 million grant from the American Cancer Society and a $1.6 million match from OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center, to improve Oklahomans cancer care across the state.

This initiative is powered by the joint clinical, research and educational missions of OU Health and the University of Oklahoma. A partnership uniquely positioned to turn advanced science into real-world solutions for families across the state.

Early detection saves lives. Catching cancer early means more treatment options and better outcomes. Oklahoma ranks 48th for colon cancer screening and 39th for prostate cancer screening. Our researchers are working on:
✅ Colon and prostate cancer screening campaigns targeting African American and Native American communities
✅ New tools including mobile apps and patient navigation services to overcome barriers (transportation, cost, info)
✅ Support to quit smoking in communities with high to***co use

These projects are designed to make cancer care more accessible, more effective, and more equitable for all Oklahomans. Whether it’s through better screening, support to quit smoking, or community-driven solutions, this research is about saving lives — starting now.

14/07/2025

When Tonette learned of her kidney cancer diagnosis, her care team immediately took action, removing only the cancerous portion of her kidney while preserving healthy tissue.

Tonette's story highlights the importance of early detection. Because her cancer was found early and had not spread beyond her kidneys, she benefited from minimally invasive robotic surgery and today, is cancer free!

If you notice blood in your urine, persistent back or side pain, or other unusual symptoms, don’t wait — talk to your doctor.

Read the inspiring story of Tonette George, who turned a devastating kidney cancer diagnosis into a story of hope through faith, medical expertise, and determination.

10/07/2025

There's still time to register for our free, family-friendly, Men's Health Awareness Summit on Saturday, July 26, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This event kicks off with a fun Zumba workout and an educational session "The Cost of Cancer." Throughout the day, attendees will hear from expert panelists and cancer survivors as well as have access to health and wellness screenings and enjoy food from Brasco’s Chicken & Waffles, FreeMan's Food Truck OKC and Betty’s.

Attendees must register in advance for breast cancer screenings. Register today: https://ousurvey.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_b7wpsTvjYqmT3z8

09/07/2025

Groundbreaking clinical trials continue at OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center at Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa. The latest of our collaborative efforts will expand access to treatments for patients with non-small cell lung cancer. We're proud our experts from Oklahoma City and Tulsa can drive innovative research together.

For a deeper dive into our clinical trials, visit: www.ouhealth.com/research-innovation/clinical-trials-at-ou-health/

08/07/2025

07/07/2025

OU Health recently joined community members for a night in Havana as a proud sponsor of the American Lung Association's Lung Force Gala.

This inspiring event rallied community leaders to ignite awareness, fund vital research, and champion enhanced prevention and treatment options for lung cancer! 🌟

02/07/2025

In observance of Independence Day, many OU Health clinics and pharmacies will be closed on Friday, July 4.

25/06/2025

Summer sun ☀️ can be fun, but it also brings serious health risks — one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. OU Health dermatologist Dr. Pamela Allen stresses the importance of protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the leading cause of skin cancer. She notes that 80% of lifetime sun damage happens before age 18. With proper precautions however, much of the risk associated with sun exposure can be significantly reduced.

Practical advice from Dr. Pamela Allen, MD, on protecting against skin cancer—how effective use of sunscreen can safeguard Oklahoma families.

21/06/2025

When 51-year-old Tonette George of Konawa, Oklahoma, first experienced back pain so severe she had to pick up her foot to put it on the accelerator and the brake of her car, she thought she had simply injured her sciatic nerve. As an active woman who spent most of her time outdoors with her family, tending to horses and dogs on their ranch, she assumed it was just the result of hard work.

Read the inspiring story of Tonette George, who turned a devastating kidney cancer diagnosis into a story of hope through faith, medical expertise, and determination.

20/06/2025

Comprehensive cancer care is now available at our new two-story, 49,318-square-foot OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center at Norman Regional Health System!

Located at 3240 HealthPlex Drive in Norman, this state-of-the-art facility provides expanded access to cancer care for more Oklahomans.

Call (572) 244-0209 to learn more.