Last month, Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, hosted a celebration honoring our breast cancer survivors. Guests reconnected with the physicians, nurses and staff who have guided them through cancer treatment, while enjoying delicious food, and music.
One of the highlights of the day was an interactive panel discussion with breast cancer experts in radiology, surgery, medical oncology, and radiation oncology, including:
Christian Diaz, social work, Huntington Health
Jennifer Holden, lymphedema physical therapist, Huntington Cancer Center
Richard Reitherman, MD, medical director of breast imaging, Huntington-Hill
Jeannie Shen, MD, regional medical director of the breast program at Huntington Cancer Center and medical director of Huntington Hospital International Health
Ruth Williamson, MD, medical director of radiation oncology at Huntington Cancer Center
Patients inquired about a wide range of topics related to breast cancer – from diagnosis to the latest in breast cancer treatment and recovery. Dr. Tank reminded the group of attendees, “You are your best advocate for care. There’s not a single risk factor that will point to breast cancer diagnosis. Everyone is different. That’s why we look at the whole person to evaluate care and needs, such as genetics, breast density and family cancer history. And don’t forget, routine mammograms are essential.”
The event concluded with reiki sessions, exercise/movement, a therapeutic drum circle and hair consultations.
Those in attendance were also encouraged to write messages of hope and strength for patients who are currently going through treatment. These sentiments are on display all month long on the two ‘Trees of Hope’ displayed in the clinic and serve as a reminder of our strong community of care and support at Huntington Cancer Center.
Today, the Tournament of Roses’ 136th Rose Court celebrated Halloween at Huntington Health. The court “trick or treated” in condiment themed costumes to visit Huntington’s pediatric and NICU patients and their families.
“We are so happy to welcome the Rose Court to our hospital for their annual Halloween visit,” said Lori J. Morgan, MD, MBA, president and CEO, Huntington Health. “Halloween is a special holiday for families with babies and kids – we know this visit will help brighten their day.”
Tournament of Roses Royal Court Queen Lindsay Charles and Princesses Natalia Pradhan and Kate Kelly are not new to Huntington Health. All three serve as volunteers, even with their busy royal schedule.
Queen Lindsay shared, “It feels so good to be here today. Huntington Hospital is so intertwined with the community. I was born here, and I have many friends who were born here. When I decided to start volunteering with a hospital one year ago, I knew this was the best place to be. The nurses and clinical care partners are so kind and amazing to work with. I love this community, this hospital, and am so happy to spend today with patients and staff.”
Hundreds of volunteers donate over 100,000 hours annually, helping to make the hospital environment friendly and welcoming. “Our volunteers are a big part of what makes Huntington Health so special,” said Jane Haderlein, senior vice president, philanthropy and public relations. “It gives me a great sense of pride to see all the ways these young adults give back to their community.”
With New Year’s Day just two months away, the team at Huntington look forward to cheering for Lindsay, Natalia and Kate, and the entire Rose Court during the Tournament of Roses Parade.
Queen Lindsay Charles and Princess Lara Georgian were both born at Huntington Hospital!
Court members gave patients and staff “Best Day Ever” friendship bracelets.
Court members visit with pediatric patient.
Jane Haderlein (right), senior vice president, philanthropy and public relations, and Stacy Miller (left), director, volunteer services, with our three Huntington volunteers.
136th Rose Court is greeted by Lori. J Morgan, MD, MBA, president and CEO, Jane Haderlein, senior vice president, philanthropy and public relations, and John Corman, MD, senior vice president, chief clinical officer.
The state-of-the-art facility will be the heart of expert cancer care and specialty care physicians in the San Gabriel Valley
Yesterday, Huntington Health, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate, held a ceremony to celebrate the groundbreaking of a four-story, 100,285- square-feet facility located at 786 South Fair Oaks in Pasadena — across the street from Huntington Hospital’s campus.
The state-of-the-art Kohl Medical Pavilion, named for lead donors Terri and Jerry Kohl, will serve as the brick-and-mortar home for new and expanded clinical programs that combine the power of Huntington’s reputation for a compassionate, individualized approach to care with the breadth and depth of Cedars-Sinai’s award-winning expertise.
“Today, we are thrilled to begin a new chapter in Huntington’s 130-year history of care for our community,” said Lori J. Morgan, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Huntington Health, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate. “The Kohl Medical Pavilion is a testament to our dedication to our community – we are here for you when you need us most with best-in-class medical care right here in the San Gabriel Valley.”
The facility will significantly enhance cancer care capabilities, supporting Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, oncologists and surgeons who have a dedicated presence at Huntington Health. The building will provide consultation, exam and treatment rooms, enabling physicians and nurses to care for more cancer patients than ever before. It will also include an expanded outpatient infusion center for chemotherapy and access to a variety of clinical trials from Cedars-Sinai Cancer.
“The ground you are standing on today will become the heart of cancer care in the San Gabriel Valley,” said Howard Kaufman, MD, regional medical director of Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer. “According to American Cancer Society, for the first time ever, more than two million people will be diagnosed with cancer this year alone. Now, as part of the largest and most comprehensive cancer program in Southern California, Huntington and Cedars-Sinai are positioned to care for 80% of cancer cases in Los Angeles County, more than all other cancer programs in the region, combined.”
Dr. Morgan added, “In addition to cancer care, the Kohl Medical Pavilion will be the home to physicians specializing in cardiac, vascular, and thoracic care, just to name a few. Our patients will have access to these expert specialists in one convenient location, right in their own backyard — instead of having to travel far and wide.”
Terri and Jerry Kohl and family were celebrated at the ceremony as lead donors to the building along with generous early supporters of the project Shelley Allen and Bob Kohorst. Ceremony attendees included LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, City of Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo, and Pasadena City Council member Jason Lyon. In addition, Huntington Hospital’s Chairman of the Board of Directors, Paul Johnson, and fellow board members Sharon Arthofer, Wayne Brandt, Armando Gonzalez, Ron Havner, R. Scott Jenkins, David Kirchheimer, Pete Kutzer, Brandon Lew, DO, Dan Murray, Mei-Lee Ney, Michelle Quinones Chino, Jaynie Studenmund, Deborah Williams, David Wrigley and Renee Ying attended the celebration. Huntington Health’s executive management team also recognized this momentous occasion.
The Kohl Medical Pavilion will include four floors dedicated to medical care including an infusion center, a testing lab, expansive terraces and an underground parking structure. The building was designed to be LEED certified. Also, landscape design plans incorporated feedback from local neighborhood associations and community members. The building site is also located near public transportation, for easy access. Construction on the Kohl Medical Pavilion is expected to be completed by late 2027.
Huntington Health, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate, held a ceremony to celebrate the groundbreaking of the state-of-the-art Kohl Medical Pavilion: (left, right) Jane Haderlein, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Public Relations, Huntington Health; David Kirchheimer, Board Member; Wayne Brandt, Board Member; Victor Gordo, Mayor, City of Pasadena; Robbin Cohen, MD, Director of Cedars Sinai Cardiac Surgery at Huntington Health; Lori J. Morgan, MD, MBA, President and CEO, Huntington Health; Jerry Kohl, Terri Kohl – with granddaughters Lily and Iris; Howard Kaufman, MD, Regional Medical Director of Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer; Kathryn Barger, LA County Supervisor; Peter Rosenberg, MD, Chief of Staff, Huntington Hospital; Jaynie Studenmund, Board Member; and Paul Johnson, Chair of the Board of Directors, Huntington Health.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight breast cancer prevention, treatment and care. For many people, the diagnosis of breast cancer in itself, can be a shock – leaving people unsure of where to begin their breast cancer care journey. Fellowship-trained breast surgeon, Jeannie Shen, MD, Regional Medical Director of the Breast Program and International Health at the Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, offers her advice to help navigate the initial diagnosis and tips to help find the right breast surgeon for you.
Huntington: What should patients look for in a breast surgeon?
Dr. Shen: A breast surgeon should be knowledgeable, compassionate and willing to spend time with their patient and patient’s family to help them understand the diagnosis and treatment options. Treatments for breast cancer are evolving so rapidly – with clinical studies in screening/diagnostics, perioperative enhanced recovery after surgery protocols, new “de-escalated” surgical techniques, shorter radiation protocols and new systemic medications. A surgeon who takes care of breast cancer patients should have knowledge of these studies and be able to translate that knowledge into a language that helps patients understand their choices. Surgeon’s love being in the operating room, but as a breast surgeon, the time we spend with patients in the office is equally as important.
Huntington: How do you customize your breast cancer treatment for the patient?
Dr. Shen: No two patients are alike, and decisions regarding an optimal surgical plan, need for/type of/duration of radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy and balancing effectiveness while minimizing side effects of medical therapies are all unique to that individual. Additional considerations may include:
Genetic testing: Because most breast cancer is not hereditary, genetic testing is not currently recommended for every breast cancer patient. Criteria for genetic testing include diagnosis before age 50, three or more relatives with breast cancer diagnosed at any age, history of ovarian cancer, pancreatic metastatic prostate cancer and melanoma, or male breast cancer in the family. The Cedars-Sinai Clinical Cancer Genetics team provides counseling and testing (if indicated) at the Huntington Cancer Center. Patients can be referred through their surgeon, radiologist, medical oncologist or primary care physician. For patients who meet criteria for testing, most major insurance plans will cover the cost of testing. For those patients whose insurance does not cover the cost of testing, affordable payment options are available.
Side effects: Patients should ask their physician about anticipated side effects and inquire about treatments available to help alleviate these side effects.
Integrative oncology: This is defined as incorporating complementary therapies (e.g., acupuncture, massage therapy, guided meditation) to standard care with the goal of helping to alleviate the side effects of surgery, radiation and medications. While medications can help relieve these symptoms, often patients are reluctant to take another prescription medication just to alleviate the side effects of the first medication. Studies show that integrative oncology therapies can be very effective in helping relieve symptoms and improve quality of life in breast cancer survivors.
Transportation: While we are fortunate to be able to care for patients right here in the San Gabriel Valley, it’s important that patients have access to transportation to and from treatment should they need assistance. Huntington Cancer Center works with the American Cancer Society to offers transportation for select patients, based on individual need and availability of resources.
Clinical trials: As a Cedars-Sinai affiliate, the Huntington Cancer Center has active trials evaluating new options for surgery, radiation and systemic (medical) therapies. Clinical trials can help test new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer, help researchers learn more about cancer to aid future patients, develop new treatments for cancer, improve quality of life for people with cancer, and give participants access to the latest advances in treatment that are under study which may not be available to people outside the trial. Studies show that high-enrollment rate to clinical trials leads to faster treatment advances and improvement in cancer outcomes and quality of life for cancer survivors.
Thank you, Dr. Shen for this excellent information! Unfortunately, breast cancer is still common, according to the American Cancer Society, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime (to age 90). Huntington Cancer Center physicians and nurses work tirelessly to ensure that patients are offered access to the latest treatments available, tailored to their specific needs, as well as support groups and resources. For more information about breast cancer care at Huntington Cancer Center, go to www.huntingtonhealth.org/cancer.
Jeannie Shen, MD, is a board-certified general surgeon and a fellowship-trained breast surgeon with two decades of experience. She serves as regional medical director of the breast program at Huntington Cancer Center and medical director of Huntington Hospital International Health.
Breast Cancer Survivor Kailee McGee Is Cancer-Free and Produced an Award-Winning Short Film About Her Journey
After her stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis, independent filmmaker Kailee McGee decided not to leave her director’s chair. Instead, she leaned in and produced an award-winning short film about her experience. And, thanks to her care team at Cedars-Sinai Cancer and Huntington Cancer Center, today McGee is cancer-free.
Kailee McGee is excited to be cancer-free today. Photo courtesy of Kailee McGee.
“I’m on the other side of active treatment,” said McGee, who turned 37 in August. “I did chemotherapy, I had a double mastectomy, and I had radiation, and I’m still currently on an immunotherapy drug. But I want to point out that I’m cancer-free. I’ve been cancer-free for a while. I’ve gotten several clean scans, and that is just so exciting.”
After feeling a lump and having a mammogram and other tests, McGee was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, an especially difficult type to treat. That’s because triple-negative cancer cells lack surface proteins that would make them vulnerable to estrogen receptor-targeted therapy or HER2-targeted therapy. Triple-negative is a rare type of the disease, representing only 10%-15% of breast cancers.
“Also, with treatments such as chemotherapy, those triple-negative breast cancers often outsmart the treatment. Fortunately, the addition of immune checkpoint inhibitors to the chemotherapy backbone represents a breakthrough in treating these cancers,” said McGee’s oncologist, Yuan Yuan, MD, PhD, director of Breast Medical Oncology at Cedars-Sinai Cancer. “Huntington Cancer Center is an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, so we were able to offer Kailee leading-edge treatment close to her home.”
Yuan Yuan, MD, PhD
The cancer had spread from the breast to the lymph nodes in McGee’s neck, and Yuan recommended treating it aggressively. McGee underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy, along with immunotherapy to help her immune system attack the cancer. After six months of therapy, she had a complete clinical response and the Cedars-Sinai Huntington Health tumor board decided to proceed with a double mastectomy. The surgery, performed by breast oncology surgeon Amy Polverini, MD, was followed by radiation treatment.
Ruth Williamson, MD, medical director of Radiation Oncology at Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer, was McGee’s radiation oncologist. Williamson said that there was no evidence of active cancer after McGee’s chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and that radiation therapy reduced the risk that her cancer would return by 75%-80%.
“If there’s one cell left behind in the regional lymph nodes, the cancer comes back,” Williamson said. “The radiation is extremely effective for targeting the areas where it might come back, and increasing the chance that Kailee is going to be cured of this disease.”
In the middle of treatment, McGee decided to write, produce, direct and star in a film about her experience. Called “Can,” the film won the Audience Award at South by Southwest Film Festival earlier this year.
“Creating art has always been the way that I’ve processed my own life, and the world, and what’s inspiring me or haunting me,” McGee said. “So I didn’t really know what else to do to make sense of this experience.”
At Kailee’s side throughout was her partner, JP Bolles, also a filmmaker and director.
Ruth Williamson, MD
“I think it was incredible to see Kailee have such a drive to do something,” Bolles said, “to take the experience that she was having and make art with it, and just how beautiful that is.”
McGee credits Bolles and her film project with creating a healing environment for her.
“I know that part of the reason that I was so optimistic and strong going through this journey was because of the support that I had from JP and from my family and friends,” McGee said. “I created this community with my collaborators and my friends to heal with me in the moment. It gave me a job and a purpose, and it gave me something to think about that wasn’t just going to doctor appointments and getting treatment.”
Rather than focusing on her cancer treatment, McGee’s film centers around what she calls her “existential identity crisis,” examining what it means to be a woman and an artist, and her inner struggle during treatment.
“At the beginning of cancer, I couldn’t wait for it to be over so I could close that chapter and never have to think about cancer again,” McGee said. “And now my reality is that in so many different ways—health and spiritually and community-wise—cancer is just part of who I am, and it’s part of my life, and it’s part of my story, and the journey continues, and acceptance of that is what I want to share with this film.”
After breast reconstruction surgery later this year with James Andersen, MD, McGee will continue to be monitored by Yuan—through imaging and a new type of test that looks for cancer DNA in her blood—to make sure she stays cancer-free.
Both Yuan and Williamson found McGee’s film eye-opening, and believe it has important messages for breast cancer survivors—and all women.
“I thought it was a beautiful way of letting women with breast cancer understand, especially those who have gone through a mastectomy, that those self-image issues and those personal issues are somewhat universal,” Williamson said, “and that we can talk about them and identify those issues and help.”
Huntington Hospital has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment. Get With The Guidelines puts the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, which leads to more lives saved and reduced disability.
“Once again, we are proud to be recognized for stroke care by the American Heart Association,” said Arbi Ohanian, MD, medical director of the comprehensive stroke program at Huntington Hospital. “Huntington Hospital provides safe, lifesaving care for hundreds of stroke patients, every year. AHA’s Get With The Guidelines program allows us to quickly treat patients with quality, higher-level interventions and makes it easier for our dedicated team to put proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis, which studies show can help patients recover better. The end goal is to ensure more people in the San Gabriel Valley can experience longer, healthier lives.”
Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times. Each year, program participants qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization is committed to providing quality care for stroke patients and improving stroke care by consistently adhering to the guidelines, which can minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death.
Huntington also received the American Heart Association’s Target: StrokeSM Elite Honor Roll award for meeting specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.
Additionally, Huntington received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes™ Honor Roll award, which aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.
“We are incredibly pleased to recognize Huntington Hospital for its commitment to caring for patients with stroke,” said Steven Messe, MD, volunteer chairperson of the American Heart Association Stroke System of Care Advisory Group and professor of neurology and director of fellowships of neurology at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. “Participation in Get With The Guidelines is associated with improved patient outcomes, fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates – a win for health care systems, families and communities.”
Once again, Huntington Health is pleased to offer free flu shots at various locations throughout Altadena, Pasadena, San Marino and South Pasadena in the coming months.
“We are heading into the beginning of flu season,” said Kimberly Shriner, MD, medical director of infection prevention and control, Huntington Health. “Our recommendation is that our community receives their flu vaccine before the end of October* to provide ample protection through the winter months. While all respiratory viruses can be severe, vaccinations provide lifesaving protections, especially among vulnerable populations.”
Huntington will offer free flu vaccines at the dates/locations below:
September 22, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Pasadena Presbyterian Church 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
September 22, 9 – 11 a.m. Community Church (Dream Church) 1305 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
September 26, 9 – 11 a.m. South Pasadena Senior Center 1102 Oxley St., South Pasadena
September 28, 8 – 11 a.m. Victory Park Farmer’s Market 2901 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena
September 29, 9 – 11 a.m. Paz Naz (First Church of Nazarene) 3700 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena
October 3, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Crowell Public Library 1890 Huntington Dr., San Marino
October 4, 9 – 11 a.m. NDLON – Pasadena Job Center 500 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena
October 5, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Latino Heritage Parade Pasadena City Hall, 100 N. Garfield Ave., Pasadena
October 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. Light of Love Mission Church 2801 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
October 8, 9 – 11 a.m. Friends In Deed 444 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena
October 8, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Huntington Hospital – Cafeteria 100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena
October 10, 7:15 – 9:15 a.m. St. Philip the Apostle School/Church 1363 Cordova St., Pasadena
October 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Altadena Library 600 E. Mariposa St., Pasadena
October 15, 9 – 11 a.m. Villa Parke Farmer’s Market 363 E. Villa St., Pasadena
October 16, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Hastings Branch Public Library 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena
October 17, 4 – 6 p.m. South Pasadena Farmer’s Market 905 Meridian Ave., South Pasadena
October 20, 9 – 11 a.m. St. Elizabeth Parish School 1840 N. Lake Ave., Altadena
October 22, 4 – 6 p.m. Huntington Hospital Emergency Department Fairmount Entrance, near emergency room
October 27, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. First United Methodist Church of Pasadena 500 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Flu vaccine requirements:
• At least 18-years-old, or giving consent for your child, ages 9-17 years
• No allergy to eggs or the influenza vaccine
• No history of Guillain-Barré syndrome
• Do not have a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection
• Do not have any COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms.
There is a limited supply of vaccines for each clinic. All sites listed are open to the public. No reservations or appointments are needed and insurance isn’t required. Standard dose will be provided, not the high dose, which is recommended for persons 65+.
For a listing of free flu clinics and for more information about the flu, please go to: www.huntingtonhealth.org/flu.
Ankle-biting mosquitos that can spread dengue fever are now more common in the Los Angeles area partly due to climate change, say Cedars-Sinai infectious disease experts. Photo by Getty.
New Cases of Mosquito-Spread Dengue Fever Highlight Local Effects of Climate Change
Amid Southern California’s recent record-breaking heat wave and fast-moving wildfires, public health officials reported the third locally-acquired case of dengue fever in the Los Angeles area. Although the events seem unrelated, they actually are connected—and for troubling reasons.
That’s because global warming causes temperatures to rise which, in turn, expands the reach of insects carrying infectious diseases. Species of mosquitoes that thrive in warmer environments are finding newly hospitable homes in places where the climate is warming and the summer heat lingers longer. As a result, physicians in once mild parts of the U.S. are seeing increasing cases of mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika virus, West Nile virus and now dengue fever.
Kimberly Shriner, MD
“Warmer weather means warmer pools of standing water, a friendlier environment for breeding mosquitos, especially without very cold winters to kill off the eggs,” said Kimberly Shriner, MD, medical director of Infection Prevention and Control at Huntington Health, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate. “There is no question that we’re seeing more Aedes mosquitos—the species that carries dengue—because of hotter temperatures.”
Another cause: people are traveling more widely and frequently, said Michael Ben-Aderet, MD, associate medical director of Hospital Epidemiology at Cedars-Sinai. He explained that this increases the odds that a traveler returns home with an mosquito-borne infectious disease, gets bit by one of the many Aedes mosquitos now thriving in Southern California, and that bug carries that disease to someone else.
“Dengue is well known in tropical places like South America, Central America and Puerto Rico,” Ben-Aderet said. “We’ve always had cases in Los Angeles associated with travel, but now we’re seeing dengue patients who didn’t travel—they never left Los Angeles. They were bit by a mosquito locally, which means there likely are other mosquitos with dengue that we haven’t found because we’re not testing for it a lot and many people who get dengue don’t get very sick.”
He added that Southern California is a perfect environment for dengue transmission. “We have mosquitos, a big population and people have been travelling more this year than ever before,” he said.
Bone-Break Fever
The Aedes mosquitos that can spread dengue, as well as Zika and West Nile viruses, started showing up in Southern California about a dozen years ago. While most people are familiar with the ankle-biting tendency of these mosquitos and the proliferation of West Nile virus, they’re likely less aware of dengue and the disease’s symptoms.
Michael Ben-Aderet, MD
Dengue can cause a wide range of symptoms from none at all to very severe, Ben-Aderet said. It starts with a high fever and severe muscle pain, giving it the nickname “break-bone fever.” Dengue often appears with a diffuse red rash that blanches, turning white or the color of one’s skin after pressing on the rash and releasing pressure. Patients can also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea.
The second time someone gets dengue, it can be much worse, said Shriner, who has treated patients with disease during annual medical mission trips to Tanzania with a nonprofit that provides clinical care and medical education. Dengue is a hemorrhagic fever, like the Ebola virus, that can cause bleeding—in this case bruises bloom under the skin from “leaky” blood vessels.
For mild cases, treatment is supportive care: fluids, rest and Tylenol. More severe cases might need intensive care in a hospital. Highly specialized vaccines exist, but they’re primarily intended to help children avoid a dangerous second infection in places like the Philippines where the disease is endemic.
Canary in the Coalmine
For local physicians, the spread of tropical diseases in once milder climates means they must think more broadly when diagnosing a sick patient.
“Whenever I see a patient in today’s world, I need to keep a very open mind about what they might have,” Ben-Aderet said. He added that the sporadic dengue infections we’ve seen from area mosquitos indicate we don’t yet have a “reservoir,” a sustained source of infections to make dengue endemic to Los Angeles. But it could happen in the not-too-distant future, he said.
Shriner emphasized that she doesn’t want people to panic. “We should be worried more about COVID-19 and the flu,” she said.
Still, she cautioned that smaller, novel outbreaks—like the emergence of dengue in Los Angeles—are “canaries in the coalmine” sending a message that we need to pay attention.
“We live in an interconnected world with a fragile climate that is changing,” Shriner said. “We want to approach this scientifically, compassionately and with humanity. This is why curing diseases like malaria in Africa will help us all too.”
Cedars-Sinai Will Provide Medical Services and Clinics at LA28 Games, and Is Caring for Team USA Athletes Through Affiliation With U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network
Cedars-Sinai today announced a partnership with the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games to serve as the Official Medical Provider for the 2028 Games, providing the highest-quality care for athletes, coaches, team personnel and visitors who travel across the world for the competitions in Los Angeles.
Cedars-Sinai will be a critical resource and medical adviser to LA28 in establishing medical services in the Olympic and Paralympic village and at sporting venues for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Cedars-Sinai is also a member of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network, supporting medical treatment of athletes as they prepare to compete in national and international competitions leading up to the 2028 Games.
These partnerships underscore Cedars-Sinai’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of Angelenos and the athletes and visitors globally who will benefit from world-class care at one of the premier academic medical centers in the U.S.
“We’ve been training for this,” said Thomas M. Priselac, president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai. “Team USA’s pursuit of greatness drives them to never stop pushing what’s possible. Cedars-Sinai’s team shares this pursuit of greatness and is continuously expanding the boundaries of what’s possible for our patients and community.”
As one of the leading medical providers in the country with more than 200 locations in Southern California, Cedars-Sinai is at the forefront of innovation in clinical care and medical research, combining expertise in orthopedics, cardiology and numerous other specialties with the most advanced facilities and technology to keep athletes healthy as they compete.
“Cedars-Sinai has been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles community for more than 120 years. LA28 is already creating a legacy driving community benefit, and we don’t need to wait until 2028 to make an impact,” said Chris Pepe, chief commercial officer at United States Olympic and Paralympic Properties and LA28. “This partnership will enhance our collective efforts to drive progress, reimagining the way the Olympic and Paralympic Games serve the world. We have a unique opportunity together to have everyone be a part of the LA28 story.”
Cedars-Sinai is one of nine medical institutions in the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Medical Network and has already begun offering care for Team USA athletes. Cedars-Sinai is the exclusive provider in Los Angeles and surrounding areas of Southern California.
“Cedars-Sinai brings remarkable healthcare skill and knowledge to Team USA athletes as they train and compete,” said Jonathan Finnoff, DO, chief medical officer of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). “As a member of the USOPC’s Medical Network, Cedars-Sinai offers critical support to Team USA athletes, elevating the quality of care we offer to our athletes, and we look forward to continuing this partnership on the road to LA28.”
Cedars-Sinai is excited to be gearing up for the 2028 Games.
“Athletes push the boundaries of human potential, breaking records and setting new standards,” said Priselac of Cedars-Sinai. “Similarly, our Cedars-Sinai team leads in medical innovation, constantly advancing the field. Just like Olympic athletes, our Cedars-Sinai staff are dedicating themselves to serve our community and our country as the Games come to Los Angeles.”
About Cedars-Sinai
Cedars-Sinai is a leader in providing high-quality healthcare encompassing primary care, specialized medicine and research. Since 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, setting standards in quality and innovative patient care, research, teaching and community service. Today, Cedars-Sinai is known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients and in developing new approaches to treatment and educating tomorrow’s health professionals. Cedars-Sinai serves as the official health partner for the Los Angeles Rams and the Angel City Football Club and treats professional and elite athletes throughout the world to ensure they perform at the highest levels. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai demonstrates a commitment to the community through programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents.
About LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games
The LA28 Games will mark Los Angeles’ third time hosting the Olympic Games, previously hosted in 1984 and 1932, and first time to host the Paralympic Games. Los Angeles will host the world’s most elite athletes in 2028 as it welcomes Paralympians and Olympians from around the world to compete on the biggest stage in sports. The LA28 Games are independently operated by a privately funded, nonprofit organization, with revenue from corporate partners, licensing agreements, hospitality and ticketing programs and a significant contribution from the International Olympic Committee. For more information, visit LA28.org.
Legends, a global premium company, helped source the partnership between Cedars-Sinai and LA28.
About Team USA
Team USA is the world’s largest and most diverse team of athletes from across the United States who compete at the Olympic, Paralympic, Youth Olympic, Pan American and Parapan American Games. The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, founded in 1894, serves as the National Olympic Committee and National Paralympic Committee for the United States and is responsible for protecting, supporting and empowering Team USA athletes. For more information, visit TeamUSA.org.
Recently passing its third year of affiliation with Cedars-Sinai Health System, Huntington Health continues to improve patient care through an expanded network of specialists and resources that leverage leading-edge technology, while also creating new opportunities for collaboration throughout the health system.
Technology
A new electronic health record, CS-Link, was introduced and has enhanced clinical connectedness and allowed patients to engage with their health journey. With CS-Link, Huntington now has a unified revenue cycle function, integrating Huntington Health, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and Cedars-Sinai Medical Network into one revenue cycle process.
Additionally, to streamline support for patients, employees, and physicians, Huntington began sharing Cedars-Sinai’s Enterprise Information Services (EIS) department. EIS provides systems, applications and device support around the clock.
Clinical Growth
Through affiliation, Huntington Health and Cedars-Sinai have built a network of specialists based in the San Gabriel Valley.
These specialty care programs have been established or have seen exceptional growth in the past three years:
New Epilepsy Monitoring Unit—Patients with uncontrolled epilepsy can now be evaluated at Huntington’s unit, which is equipped with cameras and bedside electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring to track seizure activity. Patients can also receive MRI, PET and other imaging studies and neurocognitive, memory and language testing at the unit.
Huntington Cancer Center, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Cancer—Enhanced to include new oncology specialists and services that benefit local patients, such as an onsite infusion center and direct access to the Cedars-Sinai Cancer clinical trial network.
Fair Oaks Women’s Health—One of the largest, longstanding obstetrical and gynecological practices in the San Gabriel Valley, officially joined the health system in the spring of 2023. The specialists offer obstetric expertise ranging from routine prenatal care to high-risk pregnancy.
Colorectal Surgery—A new program launched in March 2024 and offers surgical treatment of colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer and other conditions affecting the lower digestive tract.
Endocrinology—Now available at Huntington Health Physicians (HHP) specialty offices, several endocrinologists have joined the team to deliver exceptional care for hormone disorders, including diabetes and adrenal.
Otolaryngology (ENT) —Cedars-Sinai’s nationally recognized otolaryngology program has opened an office in Pasadena to provide a full spectrum of care for patients with conditions affecting the ears, nose and throat. This team offers treatment in rhinology and sinus disease, otolaryngology, laryngology and endocrine surgery, and pediatric otolaryngology services.
Rheumatology—Another addition to the HHP specialty offices includes rheumatologists who diagnose and treat autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
Huntington Health’s affiliation with Cedars-Sinai helps deliver our promise to provide expert care, close to home. We celebrate three years, and the progress made to meet the evolving needs of our community today and for generations to come.
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Huntington Cancer Center staff members eager to welcome celebration guests.
Ruth Williamson, MD, with Huntington Cancer Center patient and independent filmmaker, Kailee McGee.
A message of strength hanging from the “Tree of Hope” displayed in the Huntington Cancer Center clinic.
Huntington Cancer Center patient and independent filmmaker, Kailee McGee, receives applause after sharing her award-winning short film.
Members of the interactive panel discuss topics related to breast cancer with attendees.
Celebration attendees engage with panelists.
Attendees participate in the therapeutic drum circle.
Attendees participate in the guided body movement class.
Ramona Kyaw, MD along side Huntington Cancer Center patient, Sallianne Acosta.
Attendees mingle with Cancer Center staff.
