Within the Shands HealthCare system, multidisciplinary teams work together to utilize the latest diagnostic and therapeutic innovations to optimize treatment outcomes.

Cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that have mutated from normal tissues. This growth can kill when these cells prevent normal function of vital organs or spread throughout the body, damaging essential systems.

There are at least 200 different kinds of cancers. They can develop in almost any organ, fluid, or tissue. Some cancers affect blood cells, some affect skin; others affect bone, muscle, or nerve tissue.

In general, cancer appears to be caused by abnormal regulation of cell growth. Typically, the growth of cells in the body is strictly controlled -- new cells are made as needed to replace older ones or to perform needed functions. Cells die when they become damaged and/or are no longer needed. If the balance of cell growth and death is disturbed, cancer may occur.

You can find more information about services offered at our facilities by selecting from our hospitals list:

Academic Medical Centers:

• Shands at the University of Florida
• Shands Children's Hospital
• Shands Jacksonville

Community Hospitals and Clinics

• Shands AGH
• Shands Starke
• Shands Lake Shore
• Shands Live Oak
• Shands Rehab Hospital