MUNSTER – “Men, Women and Cancer Treatment” is the title of the free, annual symposium being offered to the public from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 13 at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts, 1040 Ridge Road in Munster.
Sponsored by The Community Cancer Research Foundation, this year’s program features presentations on cancer treatment and intimacy by distinguished professionals in the field. Internationally renowned sexual health expert Jeffrey Albaugh, PhD, APRN, and Community Healthcare System Oncologist Neel Shah, MD, FACP, will lead this year’s forum with topics that address cancer treatment and intimacy issues.
Sexual health is an integral part of life for both men and women. According to research studies, more than 40 percent of women and more than 30 percent of men report experiencing sexual dysfunction after cancer treatment and these issues can impact quality of life.
Dr. Albaugh will discuss “Reclaiming Intimacy and Your Relationship after Cancer Treatment.” With more than 20 years of experience in evaluating and treating both male and female sexual dysfunction, Dr. Albaugh offers help and hope by taking a proactive individualized approach that aims to assist patients on their healing journey. Author of “Reclaiming Sex & Intimacy after Prostate Cancer Treatment,” he offers insight on sexual issues after cancer treatment and strategies to resolve sexual issues and improve intimacy.
Dr. Shah will discuss “Immunology and Advances in Cancer Treatment.” Targeting tumors and new immunotherapy drugs are showing promise in effectively treating various types of cancer.
Dr. Shah earned his doctorate from the University of Illinois at Chicago, where he completed his residency in internal medicine. He also served as chief fellow for the Division of Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplantation at Rush University Medical Center. He is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and oncology. He has done extensive research in the areas of hematology and medical oncology, contributing to publications on targeting therapy and cell transplantation.
The Annual Cancer Symposium is sponsored by the Community Cancer Research Foundation, Inc. working toward the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the program begins at 6 p.m. There will be a short intermission between speakers and a reception with refreshments to follow. The symposium is free, but registration is necessary in advance by calling 219-836-3477 or toll-free 1-866-836-3477.



