A Message From Our Director

Spring, 2012

Max Wicha, M.D., Director of the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center

Welcome to the spring edition of the U-M cancer e-newsletter. The last few months have been exciting here at the Comprehensive Cancer Center! I am pleased to tell you that a team of U-M scientists has discovered the first hereditary gene linked to prostate cancer -- this significant finding is a critical step in understanding why some men develop more aggressive forms of the disease. I hope you enjoy reading the story and learning more about this exciting discovery.

In this issue, you can also read about our definitive research on the breast cancer drugs, Avastin and Sutent, as well as new findings about a gene involved in pancreas cancers and information on ways to help prevent colon cancer. You'll also find a story about a groundbreaking reconstructive surgery performed here at U-M, which saved a cancer patient's voice box.

We've also included an article about the incredible community of patients, families, and others who are working across the country in support of our adrenal cancer program. This kind of grassroots approach has played an invaluable role in the support of many cancers, but it is especially critical to advancing research on rare cancers, like adrenal cancer. The story illustrates the power individuals have to make a major impact.

None of the advancements you'll read about in this issue would be possible without the support of people like you. On behalf of the entire cancer community at U-M, thank you for your continued interest in our work and your support of our mission.

Together, we are conquering cancer.

Sincerely,

Max S. Wicha, M.D.
Director, University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center

P. S., We'd like your feedback on this newsletter. Please send questions or comments to cancernews@umich.edu.

Help Support the Cancer Center
Make a Gift