Brave new world of cancer treatment revealed
Dreams about cancer cures have historically been just that, but decades of painstaking research and dramatic advances in genetics are driving a revolution in cancer care.
Dr Michael Boyer, medical oncologist, Professor at Sydney Medical School and chief clinical officer of specialist cancer institute Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, will reveal the brave new world of cancer treatment on 26 October at a free public talk as part of University of Sydney’s 21st Century Medicine series.
Professor Boyer has saved the lives of many people who thought their cancer was incurable, and has added many years to the life expectancy of others. From the front lines of cancer care and curative medicine, he will reveal promising new treatments and the challenges facing researchers and patients when there is no cure.
There is a revolution happening in cancer treatment.
“Promising new treatments avoid the sledgehammer approach of traditional chemotherapy in two key ways,Professor Boyer said.
"Firstly, by using personalised drugs that target the mutations causing cancer, and secondly, developing medications that help the body's natural defense system to recognise and fight cancer.
“Our increased knowledge of cancer biology is improving our ability to develop treatments that are far more effective and less toxic than the ones we have used in the past.
“So much has changed in the way we treat cancer, which has resulted in people living, working and being well for longer. We need to help people live with their cancers and deal with survivorship issues, which have had little focus in the past,” he said.
Event details:
21st CENTURY MEDICINE 2015 - THE FUTURE OF CANCER CARE IS (nearly) HERE
Date: Monday, 26 October 2015
Time: Meet the researcher 5.30- 6pm; lecture 6-730pm
Venue: Sydney Nanoscience Hub – Lecture theatre 4002 (Messel)
Speaker: Professor Michael Boyer AM
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