Today healthcare professionals specializing in breast cancer have reason to be hopeful. We're witnessing an explosion of knowledge about the molecular subtleties that may explain why two apparently similar breast cancers may behave so differently. Moreover, scientists are using this information to design targeted therapies that focus on these molecular features, and also coupling such data with clinical information to determine which treatment regimen is most appropriate for each patient.
We've had other reasons to celebrate as well. Recently released statistics reported that the incidence of breast cancer dropped sharply in 2003, the year after hormone replacement therapy was found to raise breast cancer risk. And today there is increased attention to the quality of life of women with breast cancer, both during and after treatment, as well as women who don't have the disease but live with the anxiety associated with knowing they have an elevated risk of developing it.
Despite this good news, breast cancer still remains the most common cancer among women in America, affecting more than 178,000 of them each year and claiming more than 40,000 lives annually. So there remains much work to be done.
In this issue you will read about how we at the NYU Cancer Institute are contributing to this global effort. Our radiologists are using sophisticated technologies to find breast cancers early and to monitor patients' response to treatment. Our surgeons are operating less invasively and more conservatively. Our medical oncologists have a greater arsenal of cancer-fighting drugs at their disposal. Our radiation oncologists are delivering radiation with fantastic precision. Our breast reconstruction experts are helping restore form - and in many cases, self-esteem - to women who choose this option. And specialists from our Supportive Services Program stand by our patients, every step of the way, addressing their psychosocial needs.
Today we have more reason than ever before to be optimistic. I hope you get a sense of this hope as you read the stories in this issue.
Download the Fall 2007 Newsletter (pdf)
