LLS hoping to find a cure for blood cancers

[Guest guest]

" Researchers believe, after looking at demographic trends, that the major reason

for this increase is the United States' aging population. According to the

study, the number of Americans aged 65 and older diagnosed with cancer will rise

by 67 percent to 1.6 million in 2030, up from 1 million in 2010. Also, the

number of minorities diagnosed with cancer by that time is expected to double to

660,000 from 330,000.

" This is basically saying how will our population changes impact the number of

people getting cancer, " said Dr. Ben of M.D. . " In 2030, 70

percent of all cancers will be diagnosed in the elderly and 28 percent in

minorities, and the number of older adults diagnosed with cancer will be the

same as the total number of Americans diagnosed with cancer in 2010. "

" What's more, also said that the number and types of cancers expected to

increase - such as liver, stomach and pancreas - are especially deadly. This

study points to a fact that LLS and the cancer community have been espousing for

years - that more resources need to be directed to cancer care.

" Both older adults and minorities are segments of the patient population that

are particularly vulnerable to receiving sub-optimal medical care, " said.

" Through its Patient Services Programs, LLS has long been increasing its

outreach to underserved populations. On the public policy front, LLS has been a

strong advocate for increased federal support of the Patient Navigator Act and

for a comprehensive cancer care program.

" Likewise, cancer treatment options need to be improved to support the influx of

newly diagnosed patients. LLS advocates have been urging increases in cancer

research funding to develop new treatments and enhanced access to clinical

trials to test these new treatments. Volunteers can join in this effort by

visiting LLS's Legislative Action Center now to urge their representative to

support legislation that would help increase patient access to clinical trials.

" Finally, as cancer diagnoses increase, so too will the number of cancer

survivors. Increased research and support for cancer survivorship issues is

critical in ensuring that cancer survivors are able to live healthy, productive

lives post-cancer treatment. "

Copied and pasted from LLS " ADVOCACY UPDATE " 2009

http://www.capitolconnect.com/lls/

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" Regular medical follow-up enables doctors to assess the full effect of therapy,

detects recurrence of the disease and identifies long-term or late effects.

Cancer survivors should see their primary-care physicians for general health

examinations and an oncologist for follow-up care related to cancer.

Coordination between specialists and primary care physicians is essential to

provide the best care.

Follow-Up Guidelines for Survivors. " Several organizations are working on

evidence-based guidelines for adult blood cancer patients and their physicians

that will standardize follow-up care and increase awareness about long-term and

late effects. Some treatment centers have follow-up clinics that provide a

comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to monitoring and supporting cancer

survivors. Most follow-up clinics specialize in pediatric cancer survivors, but

some follow adult cancer survivors. Cancer survivors should have physical

examinations yearly or more often, as needed. Regular examinations may include

screening for cancer recurrence or the development of secondary cancer or other

late effects of treatment. "

More info on this subject:

http://www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/all_page?item_id=12486

FYI,

Lottie