Breast cancer treatments more targeted, more successful

By Cindy Ward (ward@wsbt.com)

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The Harper Cancer Institute, a partnership between Notre Dame and the Indiana University School of Medicine at South Bend will study molecular genetics

The Harper Cancer Institute, a partnership between Notre Dame and the Indiana University School of Medicine at South Bend, will be one of the few cancer research centers in the world to study molecular genetics, which experts say is the key to finding a cure for cancer. (WSBT photo)

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: May 22, 2009 at 2:46 PM EST

Story Updated: May 22, 2009 at 4:10 PM EST

There have been huge advances in breast cancer treatment and survival rates, with more clinical studies in the field locally right now.

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Surgery can be less invasive, and new drugs have fewer side effects.

"We have advanced chemotherapies now, we have targeted therapies,” said Dr. Bilal Ansari of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center. “These therapies go directly to the breast cancer cells — called Avastin — and patients do very well on these kinds of treatments."

The goal is to prevent recurrence and prolong survival. But the first line of defense is you: Early detection is key, and monthly self-breast exams can help save lives.

That's why WSBT-TV has teamed up with Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center to bring you the Pink Pack.

Here's how it works:

You pick a friend to be your Pink Pack Pal. Then you request a Pink Pack.

You'll get a breast self-exam guide, a pen and a kitchen magnet — one for you and one for your Pink Pack Pal. We'll remind you on the 22nd of every month to call your Pink Pal and remind her to do her breast self-exam. And remember to do yours the same day. Early detection saves lives.

Become a member of the Pink Pack right away — it could save a life.

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