Experts to highlight the importance of research, prevention and treatment of cancer

April marks National Cancer Control Month, which focuses on the importance of prevention, treatment and research in the fight against cancer. The Cancer Institute of New Jersey is making experts available to discuss varied topics relating to these areas, including genomics research which aims to identify mutations that drive cancer; a comprehensive overview of genetic testing and counseling; the benefits of early detection through cancer screening; and how to make nutritional lifestyle changes aimed at cancer prevention. The Cancer Institute of New Jersey is a Center of Excellence of the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.

CINJ experts available for comment include:
Shridar Ganesan, MD, PhD, the associate director for translational science at The Cancer Institute of New Jersey. Dr. Ganesan, who is an assistant professor of medicine and pharmacology at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, is currently leading research involving genomic analysis of tissue samples to determine exact gene abnormalities potentially responsible for rare and poor-prognosis cancers. The aim is to pinpoint what drives the growth of cancer cells.

Hetal Vig, MS, CGC, a certified genetic counselor who provides services through CINJ's Hereditary Oncology Prevention and Evaluation - or HOPE - program, which offers genetic counseling and risk assessment. For those with cancer in their family history, genetic counseling is one option they can consider which may allow them to better weigh their risks and options. Ms. Vig helps individuals navigate this process.

Laurie J. Kirstein, MD, FACS, a surgical oncologist at CINJ and assistant professor of surgery at UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. Kirstein can discuss the importance of early detection of breast cancer through mammography and breast self-examinations. In women who have had breast cancer, self-exams are considered a proactive approach to identifying recurrence at an earlier stage. She also can discuss how breast self exams play a vital role in a woman's overall health and how they should be incorporated into a woman's regular routine.

Kristin Waldron, RD, a registered dietitian at CINJ who is able to comment on the importance of nutrition while dealing with cancer. She works with cancer patients on developing a proper diet to complement their treatment regimen to help avoid common side effects such as nausea. She also works with patients who have completed treatment to develop a diet that would help prevent a recurrence of cancer. Ms. Waldron also can discuss the role nutrition plays in the overall prevention of cancer.

Source: The Cancer Institute of New Jersey