Ascension Saint Agnes introduces scalp cooling therapy to help cancer patients reduce hair loss

When Melinda Fletcher was unexpectedly diagnosed with breast cancer during a scan for an unrelated medical issue, one of her biggest concerns was losing her long, curly hair before her oldest son's wedding.

Now, Melinda is sharing her story as Ascension Saint Agnes offers scalp cooling therapy, a treatment option designed to help eligible patients reduce chemotherapy-related hair loss.

Reducing side effects of cancer treatment

The therapy uses a specialized cooling cap worn during chemotherapy to help minimize hair loss, a common side effect of certain cancer treatments. For Melinda, knowing the option was available helped ease one of the many concerns that came with her diagnosis.

Although she experienced an estimated 60% to 70% hair loss during treatment, her hair has since grown back into full, thick curls.

"Knowing that I might not lose all of my hair helped me stay focused on other things," Melinda said. "It was one less thing I had to worry about."

Suman Rao, MD, Oncology Section Chief at Ascension Saint Agnes, facilitated the adoption of this technology at the hospital in 2025, with Melinda as its first patient.

"Hair loss is a common and highly visible effect of some cancer treatments, and it can have a significant impact on how patients experience their treatment," Rao said. "We are very pleased to be able to offer this as a tool that empowers patients' choices."

An innovation made possible by a generous cancer patient

The scalp cooling program was made possible through an anonymous gift to the Ascension Saint Agnes Foundation from a grateful patient who wanted to recognize the exceptional care they received at the Cancer Institute.

Patients with breast cancer receive personalized care from a dedicated team of specialists, with access to advanced treatments and compassionate support throughout their journey. Learn more about breast cancer care at Ascension Saint Agnes.