Revving up the breast cancer research engine

Kudos to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for organizing some of the most innovative research endeavors in the field of breast cancer research. Last year they revamped their research program that addresses the reality of research in this area: it takes more than a one-time, one year grant to a researcher in order to move the needle.

They are creating the Susan G. Komen for the Cure-AACR Scholar-in-Training Awards and Minority Scholar Awards for Breast Cancer Research which will provide support and recognition to increase the field of innovative ideas in research. And just last week, the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), announced that it is partnering with Susan G. Komen for the Cure, to create the 2008 Susan G. Komen for the Cure- AACR Outstanding Investigator Award for Breast Cancer Research.

The award will be presented at the prestigious AACR-CTRC San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in 2008 (a result of a partnership between AACR and the Cancer Therapy and Research Center (CTRC) at the University of Texas Health Science Center) December 10-14, 2008. Nominations are open to researchers in all areas of cancer research who are in the early stages of their careers (under 50 years old). The winner will speak about his or her research at the event. Susan G. Komen for the cure is also involved in other initiatives associated with the CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium and will sponsor educational sessions on some of the latest research.

In the spirit of transparency, I should tell you that Komen’s Chief Scientific Officer is Eric P. Winer, Director of Dana Farber’s Breast Cancer Oncology Center, Professor at Harvard Medical School and my doctor. He has been the catalyst for a lot of the research innovation taking place there; changes that will make a difference for so many women. With an emphasis on collaboration, efficiency and outcomes, Komen seems really in sync with the needs of the research community and all of us who anxiously await the fruits of their labor.

What do you think?