UPMC Ovarian Cancer Symposium Unites Physicians, Researchers, Patients May 10-11

2/8/2012

Nearly 250 physicians, scientists and patients from around the world will meet in Pittsburgh May 10 to 11 to discuss the current and emerging research and clinical practices for treating ovarian cancer at UPMC’s 2012 Ovarian Cancer Symposium. The theme for the event is “Molecular Mechanisms and Personalized Medicine.”

Leading experts in the field will cover a wide variety of topics, including ovarian cancer prevention, identifying biomarkers for early detection, treatment of high-risk women, clinical trials, quality of life, survivorship issues and the role complementary therapies can play in cancer care. The symposium is intended to encourage conversation and learning for patients, caregivers, consumer advocates, physicians and cancer researchers.

“While we have made significant progress over the years in terms of research and treatment, ovarian cancer continues to claim the lives of far too many women,” said Robert Edwards, M.D., director of the Ovarian Cancer Center of Excellence at Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC and one of the symposium’s directors. “What makes this symposium unique are the patient and advocacy components. So many cancer programs bring together physicians and researchers without hearing from those we treat. At our symposium, not only will patients and their families have the opportunity to learn about cutting-edge therapies, but they’ll also have a chance to hear what leading physicians and researchers are discussing and provide their unique perspective on both treatment and research. The cross-over allows for a dynamic, educational experience for all participants.”

The event includes a continuing medical education credit component for physicians, nurses, physician assistants, counselors and others involved in patient care. It also includes a special educational series for women, family members and primary care clinicians to learn about complementary therapies that can support women and their families during and after a cancer diagnosis.

Researchers, physician and patients can register for the symposium or request a course brochure by visiting http://www.upci.upmc.edu/ovarian.

The symposium is sponsored by UPMC, Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation, the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Center for Continuing Education in the Health Sciences.

Note to Media: For further information or to register as press for the Ovarian Cancer Symposium, please contact Courtney McCrimmon at 412-586-9773 or MccrimmonCP@upmc.edu.