Cancer - The 'C' Word


Dr. Lonzetta Newman's presentation at the Mid-Year Educational Workshop reviewed current cancer research.

"We hope today that you will learn more about cancer and hopefully this will alleviate any fears that you may have when you hear the "C" word," Newman began.

In the last 60 years, the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston has built a worldwide reputation for excellence in cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. The center was named for Monroe Dunaway Anderson who was born in 1873 and was a banker before becoming president of Anderson, Clayton & Co, which came to be the world's largest merchant of cotton, the world's most popular commodity. For nearly a century, it was known as "King Cotton" in Texas and other states.

Dr. Newman said that in 1936, M. D. Anderson created the charitable foundation which bears his name and funded it with about $300,000. This foundation was destined to receive $19 million after Monroe's death in 1939.

In 1941, the Texas legislature authorized the University of Texas to establish a hospital for cancer research and treatment. The Anderson Foundation matched the legislature's funding to create the center in Houston. In 1946, Randolph Lee Clark, M.D., took charge of the institution and lifted it to great heights in terms of successful operation and worldwide recognition.

Dr. Newman noted that scientists and clinicians at MD Anderson are accelerating their diverse research. The MD Anderson Cancer Center has outlined a few key steps toward reducing the risks for certain cancers.

• Be aware of symptoms - Pay attention to your body and report any unusual changes to your doctor.
• Follow screening guidelines - Ask your doctor about recommended screening guidelines.
• Discuss risk factors with your doctor - Your physician can inform you about specific factors that may increase your risks of developing cancer.
• Investigate your family's history of cancer - If you have a strong family history of cancer, you may want to learn more about genetic testing.

"Help us to continue to make cancer history by putting it where it belongs - in the grave," said Dr. Newman.  "How can you help yourselves and your family? You can schedule your screening exams today. The earlier you can get detected for cancer, it doesn't have to be a death sentence. Here at MD Anderson, it's not," Dr. Newman concluded.