Cancer. It’s a word no woman wants to hear. But one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in her lifetime. In Illinois, more than 12,160 women are projected to be diagnosed with breast cancer and about 3,270 with a gynecologic cancer in 2025. Cancer, especially those unique to women, may pose physical and emotional challenges. The disease may develop in your breasts or your reproductive organs, creating challenges and concerns about fertility, sexual health and self-image.
At City of Hope Chicago, we understand the unique nature of cancers that are unique to women. That’s why we created the Women’s Cancer Center at City of Hope Chicago. Our experienced oncologists and clinicians are singularly focused on screening, diagnosing and treating breast cancer and gynecologic cancers with a sense of urgency. Our supportive care services are designed to help address symptoms and side effects, to help you have the strength and stamina to continue your treatment and the quality of life to help you continue everyday activities throughout your cancer journey.
Why wait? The Women’s Cancer Center can schedule your appointment in as little as 24 hours. Treatments may begin within 48 hours of your first visit, and some appointments may be available via telehealth using the our videoconferencing technology. Call us or chat online.
Available 24/7 to discuss treatment options
At the Women’s Cancer Center at City of Hope Chicago, your multidisciplinary team of doctors and clinicians works together every day to deliver the care you need and the care you deserve. We offer cancer screenings, diagnostic evaluations, treatments plans, survivorship and supportive care services, all under one roof.
Our Women’s Cancer Center was developed to focus on cancers unique to women, including:
Carolyn Bhakta, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S.
Surgical Oncologist and Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon
Barbara Buttin, M.D.
Gynecologic Oncologist
Teja Poosarla, M.D.
Director of Medical Oncology for the Breast Program
Laura Farrington, D.O.
Medical Oncologist
Hatem Halabi, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Surgical Oncologist
Daniel Liu, M.D.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, City of Hope Chicago
Aaron Pelletier, M.D.
Chief of Surgical Services, City of Hope Chicago
Karan Shah, M.D., M.B.A.
Radiation Oncologist and Co-Medical Director, Breast Program
Karen Smorowski, M.D.
Radiation Oncologist, City of Hope Chicago
David J. Winchester, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Co-Medical Director, Breast Program
"The day of my surgery, I was a nervous but confident about choosing City of Hope. I arrived at the hospital and began to prep for my surgery. The various nurses and doctors came in to greet me and made sure I knew their role during surgery. The team was so accommodating and encouraging to us. We never felt rushed. They allowed my support system to make me feel comfortable before I had to go in for surgery. It was clear that I also had a dedicated team of doctors and clinicians who were there to support me. "
