Support Cancer Research
The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center’s commitment to eradicating
cancer is fueled by scientific investigation conducted as part of the largest
hospital-based research program in the United States. Its doctors and scientists
regularly exchange clinical observations and research discoveries. This collaboration
among world authorities in a wide range of medical specialties leads to creative
problem solving, including many innovative discoveries about how cancer originates and
how it can be effectively treated.
Thanks to their research, cancer may one day become a long-term condition
rather than a terminal disease. A few recent examples are:
- Development of a new microchip capable of capturing rare cancer cells that circulate at the rate of one in a billion cells
- A drug called Gleevec® - a once-a-day
dose of an oral chemotherapy for leukemia
- Cancer Genetics – Discovering that
DNA mutations that cause cancer are a genetic
trait in families.
- A new area of research
is Molecular Therapeutics. This
has recently contributed to learning that
certain cancers produce specific DNA mutations
and how chemotherapy can play a role in retarding
these mutations.
- Using the most advanced form
of radiation treatment called Proton Beam
Therapy. This
intense and focused type of radiation therapy
has enhanced our ability to treat children
and adults with cancers of the brain and
localized tumors while sparing healthy tissue.
- New
ways of detecting small number of cancer
cells called “nanotechnology.” This
finds very small microscopic amounts of cancer
cells using molecular probes and MRI scanners.
- The
new generation of chemotherapy called “Smart
Drugs.” These drugs are taking
the knowledge we have learned about genetic
mutations and inhibiting cell growth to be
designed to precisely target the exact source
of cancer and help keep it from growing. These
advances are being made in breast cancer,
lung cancer, skin cancer, kidney, stomach
cancer, and others.
Making A Difference
In order for the cancer scientists to continue
to solve these cancer puzzles, they rely heavily
on the generous donations of many individuals. If
you are interested in learning how your donations
can have an important impact on this exciting
field, please contact:
Kate Todd
Director of Development for the Cancer Center
617-726-0402
kstodd@partners.org