Examining breast cancer
2nd annual Ginny L. Clements Breast Cancer Research Institute focuses on health disparities, precision medicine
Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker was the keynote speaker at the Ginny L. Clements Breast Cancer Research Institute 2nd Annual Symposium, April 24, in the Health Sciences Innovation Building.
In her keynote address, the founder of Susan G. Komen spoke about her newest project, the Promise Fund of Florida. The foundation brings timely and quality access to breast cancer and cervical cancer treatment for women who are underinsured and uninsured in Florida.
Brinker and Ginny L. Clements, breast cancer survivor, philanthropist and founder of the Ginny L. Clements Breast Cancer Research Institute at the University of Arizona Cancer Center, then had a fireside chat moderated by Janet L Funk, MD, professor, in the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Department of Medicine.
In the scientific program, researchers discussed precision medicine and the newest treatments breast cancer treatments and novel therapeutics.
Presenters included Kevin Kalinsky, MD, director of the Glenn Family Breast Center and Breast Medical Oncology at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, director of the Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, and professor in the Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, who spoke on tailoring breast cancer treatment.
Aditya Bardia, MD, MPH, FASCO, professor of medicine, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, director, Breast Oncology Program, assistant chief of translational research, Medical Oncology Division and director of Translational Research Integration from UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, discussed the development of targeted therapies, particularly antibody drug conjugates, to help patients with metastatic breast cancer.
“Dr. Kevin Kalinsky and Dr. Aditya Bardia are some of the most notable and highly published, cited, well recognized and reputed breast cancer researchers in the world,” said Rachna Shroff, MD, Cancer Center interim clinical affairs director; associate director of clinical investigations; associate dean, clinical and translational research; chief of the Division of Hematology/Oncology; and professor in the College of Medicine. “We are very privileged to have them with us and so grateful that they traveled here to be part of this symposium.”
Dr. Shroff served as the event master of ceremonies.
Also speaking at the symposium was Jennifer Erdrich, MD, oncologist and assistant professor with the Division of General Surgery and the University of Arizona Department of Surgery; Joyce A. Schroeder, PhD, professor and department head in the University of Arizona Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology; William R Montfort, PhD, professor in the University of Arizona Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry; and Dr. Funk.
