Research

The Syracuse Community Clinical Oncology Program

(Syracuse CCOP)

In an effort to find new and more effective treatments for cancer, Hematology-Oncology Associates works with the National Cancer Institute CCOP Program. Participation in the CCOP enables us to work with major cancer centers and research groups to make clinical and prevention trials available to our community. Through this CCOP mechanism our staff and patients have had the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of cancer care and prevention since 1986.

By participating in clinical trials, patients and physicians can explore new options for treatment and prevention. Each of the clinical trials offered to our patients is characterized by careful monitoring of the patient's health and treatment according to strict guidelines. At the present time, we belong to a number of cancer research groups, including:

• Cancer & Leukemia Group B (CALGB) - www.calgb.org
• National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) - www.nsabp.pitt.edu
• Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) - www.rtog.org
• University of Rochester Cancer Center (URCC) - www.urmc.rochester.edu/cancercenter/
• Fox Chase Cancer Center - www.fccc.edu/ccop

These research groups develop clinical trials in which our practice may participate. We offer a number of treatment trials for various stages and types of cancer. These include adjuvant therapies as well as treatments for metastatic disease (cancer which has spread beyond the original site). Adjuvant therapy is treatment given in addition to the primary treatment to enhance the effectiveness of the primary treatment. We currently have clinical trials available for the treatment of different stages of breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer, head and neck cancers, leukemias and lymphomas, pancreatic and prostate cancers.

The research groups also develop cancer control and prevention trials for use in our community. Our major focus in these trials is prevention of cancer-related side effects, quality of life improvements and prevention of cancer itself.

Many clinical trials have produced indisputable improvements in survival as well as quality of life, all thanks to the advancements made possible by voluntary patient participation in clinical trials. If you (or a family member at higher risk) meet the eligibility criteria of a clinical trial, your physician may offer you the opportunity to participate in the Syracuse Community Clinical Oncology Program.