2017 Archive

Virginia cancer care providers and clinical researchers convene for sixth annual Massey conference
Oncologists and clinical cancer researchers from across the state gathered for Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) Massey Cancer Center’s sixth annual Cancer Symposium and Clinical Research Affiliation Network Retreat on April 7 and 8 at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa in Short Pump, VA. Friday’s symposium provided continued professional education for clinicians while Saturday’s retreat helped facilitate the operations of Massey’s Clinical Research Affiliation Network, which acts to bring clinical trials to eight affiliated community hospitals and oncology practices in Fredericksburg, Lynchburg, Metro Richmond, South Hill and Winchester.

Physical therapy helps cancer patients regain control of their lives
Studies have disproven several common myths about the fragility of patients with cancer. In fact, research is showing that vigorous exercise, including weight training, can help improve the outcomes of patients undergoing treatment as long as they are physically capable. Exercise stimulates the immune system to help fight cancer, and it also helps relieve stress and releases endorphins that aide in combatting depression.

Massey research supports paradigm shift for the treatment of early stage pancreatic cancer
The statistics for pancreatic cancer are grim. In 2016, nearly 53,000 people were diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and almost four out of every five diagnoses are expected to result in death, according to statistics from the National Cancer Institute. However, a recent study by researchers at VCU Massey Cancer Center suggests that a paradigm shift in treatment may help increase overall survival among early stage pancreatic cancer patients

Massey physicians named Richmond’s “Top Docs”
VCU Massey Cancer Center physicians were again recognized in Richmond Magazine’s annual list of “Top Docs.” Featured in the magazine’s April 2017 issue, the list includes 34 doctors from varied specialties who provide oncology-related care to Massey’s patients, including 12 who care for pediatric patients in partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. The selections were the result of a survey that asked Richmond-area physicians who they would recommend in a range of specialties.

Charles Chalfant named program leader of Cancer Cell Signaling
Massey researcher Charles Chalfant, Ph.D., has been appointed as the co-leader of the Cancer Cell Signaling (CCS) research program at VCU Massey Cancer Center. He will serve in this capacity alongside Andrew C. Larner, M.D., Ph.D., who has also co-led the program with Sarah Spiegel, Ph.D., since its inception in 2011.