Letter from the 2000-2001 President
It was a pleasure and a privilege to serve as ASCO’s 37th President, through a time of continued growth in ASCO membership, exciting advances in cancer research, and increased efforts to ensure that all patients with cancer have access to high-quality oncology care.
ASCO membership continues to grow and diversify. Over the past five years, the number of ASCO members has increased from 11,000 to more than 16,000. The largest segment of membership remains medical oncologists, but the Society has become increasingly multidisciplinary, with more Active Members who are radiation, surgical, pediatric, and gynecologic oncologists. The number of Associate Members—fellows in oncology training programs—has also increased, especially since 1999, when the Society established free membership for fellows.
I urge training program directors and other oncologists to encourage fellows to take advantage of the tremendous opportunities ASCO offers. The future of ASCO resides in our fellows, and the Society is committed to better serving their needs and preparing them to become leaders in the oncology community. This commitment is reflected in the $2.2 million in research funding provided by the ASCO Fellowship Grants Program as well as continued enhancement of the Annual Meeting Fellows Program. Last year, this program was expanded to include a wide variety of valuable treatment-oriented, career-related, and practical sessions for fellows and junior faculty. In addition, beginning oncologists had the opportunity to interact with recognized leaders in Meet the Professor Sessions geared specifically to the knowledge level of fellows and junior faculty.
For oncologists at every level, the ASCO Annual Meeting remains the most important clinical and translational cancer meeting worldwide. In 2001, the integration of a robust educational program and a strong scientific program resulted in the most diverse, comprehensive Annual Meeting yet. Through the presentation of more than 1,700 abstracts, we had the opportunity to learn about the elegant and eloquent cancer research conducted by our members. We also caught a glimpse into the future of cancer research with the first formal presentations of STI-571 in a solid tumor (GIST). The promise of translational research is beginning to be realized with new targets for cancer therapy, and the enthusiasm for molecular-targeted therapy has been justified.
In addition to advances in research, substantial inroads were made in the public policy arena, and ASCO was at the forefront of advocating for access to high-quality care for all patients with cancer. The best treatment for an oncology patient is often entry into a clinical trial, but patients have been denied reimbursement merely because they volunteered to participate. The Society played a major role in ensuring that Medicare covers the cost of clinical trials. After a decade of effort by ASCO and other cancer advocates, the change in Medicare policy was announced in September 2000 by the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) (now known as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services [CMS]).
The Society also met the threat posed by changes in the average wholesale price (AWP), which would have resulted in a decrease in Medicare payments. The AWP does not cover the true cost of giving outpatient chemotherapy or services related to provision of drugs. Quick action on the part of ASCO prevented such reductions, which would have led to overall inadequate reimbursements and placed the continuation of outpatient chemotherapy in jeopardy. An ASCO Task Force now is working to restructure chemotherapy administrative payments to more accurately reflect the services provided.
My presidential initiative involved examining the burden placed on oncologists by CMS guidelines concerning fraud and abuse. The complexity of billing and the fear of being accused of fraud have had a chilling effect upon the American health-care system, and I believe that it has also had a damaging effect on the morale of oncologists and on our ability to adequately train the future leaders of oncology. In our survey of ASCO members, we found that oncologists had greater concern about complying with CMS requirements than they did about the stress of dealing with death and dying and the loss of income. The survey findings provide objective data to support efforts to effect change, and, they have already been put to work as Congress considers major reforms of the Medicare program. In December, the House of Representatives voted 408-0 to pass a comprehensive bill that provides substantial regulatory relief, including in the area of documentation. This is a strong statement by policymakers that change is overdue. The Society will continue to support this effort as well as other initiatives to reduce the burden of regulatory requirements. We cannot allow such requirements to negatively affect the quality of patient care.
Throughout this past year, work also continued on the presidential initiative of my predecessor, Joseph S. Bailes, MD. The National Initiative on Cancer Care Quality is designed to define appropriate benchmarks for use in measuring the quality of care, with a goal of identifying best practices. The scope of the study was expanded to include 2,000 patients (1,000 with breast cancer and 1,000 with colorectal cancer), and NICCQ research teams, along with the ASCO Task Force on Quality Care, completed the development of quality measures for these two types of cancer and will soon complete a patient survey instrument. The project represents a ground-breaking effort that could have a significant impact on how cancer care is delivered across the country.
ASCO’s accomplishments are made only through the hard work and dedication of ASCO members who volunteer their time and expertise as members of ASCO Committees and Task Forces. I encourage all members to pursue ways in which they can contribute to the Society’s efforts and help maintain ASCO’s eminent reputation in the oncology community. I am proud of the advances we have made this past year, and I thank you for your support during my presidency. My best wishes to Larry Norton, MD, as he leads ASCO during a time of tremendous advances and challenges.
Lawrence H. Einhorn, MD
2000-2001 ASCO President
Letter from the Executive Vice President
The 2000-2001 year concluded with accomplishments of which the ASCO membership can be proud and with new and continuing goals to achieve in the year ahead. It is my pleasure to introduce, along with Dr. Lawrence H. Einhorn, this Annual Report summarizing the Society’s activities.
The Thirty-Seventh Annual Meeting, held in San Francisco, continued the Society’s tradition of education excellence. Today’s oncologic state-of-the-art medical knowledge and cutting-edge research were presented with a multidisciplinary approach. The educational and science program offered at the Annual Meeting grew from the previous year (more than 200 educational sessions and 1,700 abstract presentations) and was structured into Meeting tracks that gave attendees better accessibility to their preferred sessions and allowed them to customize their personal Meeting itineraries.
ASCO membership also continued to increase over the past year. More than 2,300 oncology professionals joined ASCO in 2000-2001. The Society established membership programs with a select group of Reciprocal Societies that share standards and missions similar to ASCO. Fellows and oncologists in training comprised a particularly important constituency among these new members, as the next generation of academicians and private practitioners find support and professional growth within the programs of the Society.
Support of clinical trials and clinical trial methodology played an important role in ASCO’s activities, which served as resources to both young clinicians in training and established professionals. In 2000-2001, ASCO continued its annual joint sponsorship, with the American Association of Cancer Research, of the Workshop on Methods in Clinical Cancer Research. The Workshop specifically is designed to help young researchers develop the expertise necessary to conduct effective clinical trials. The inaugural 2000 European-based Workshop was repeated in 2001, with sponsorship by the Federation of European Cancer Societies.
The Journal of Clinical Oncology, the Society’s flagship peer-reviewed journal, continued to lead ASCO publications as oncology’s enduring reference for professionals. The transition of JCO Editor from Dr. George Canellos to Dr. Dan Haller was successfully completed. The 2001 Program/Proceedings also saw a new Editor in 2001, with Dr. Michael Perry handing the editorship to Dr. Steven Grunberg, who oversaw publication of the 2001 issue in a two-volume set for the first time. Dr. Perry continued as Editor of the Educational Book, with the 2001 spring issue the largest ever, offering members and Meeting attendees educational articles from leaders in diverse subspecialties. Of note, newer ASCO publications, such as Annual Meeting Summaries, with Dr. Dave Johnson as Editor, and the latest ASCO Curriculum, Optimizing Cancer Care—The Importance of Symptom Management, with Dr. Tom Smith as Editor, continued the Society’s commitment to meet the evolving educational needs of ASCO members and other oncology professionals.
Quality cancer care and public policy remain important issues for ASCO. In 2000-2001, as you will see in the pages ahead, ongoing
programs such as the National Initiative on Cancer Care Quality and newly developed Clinical Practice Guidelines rank high in
priority among ASCO’s many contributions in these areas. In addition, ASCO continued to advocate for both patients and physicians regarding Medicare coverage of anticancer drugs. The Society has been instrumental in advancing these issues in the public policy arena and in moving toward reform.
ASCO’s presence as an authoritative resource for the media on oncology-related issues continued to grow in the past year. The ASCO Speakers Bureau—composed of leading experts in a wide range of areas—was active as more and more consumer outlets turn to ASCO as the most reliable source of cancer information.
Integral to the success of the Society’s programs is the ASCO staff, which grew to meet the increased and more sophisticated services and programs of the Society. Dr. Ron Beller, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, has been key to the successful management and training of ASCO staff, and I thank him for
his accomplishments as my executive partner.
ASCO’s position as the leading professional organization of cancer care providers and researchers continues to be supported and sustained by the membership. I am proud of all our accomplishments over the past year. I thank Dr. Einhorn for his vision and tireless efforts in leading the Society during his Presidency.
ASCO’s work continues. Dr. Larry Norton, the 2001-2002 President, and the ASCO Board of Directors are busy leading ASCO volunteers and staff to develop and deliver ongoing and upcoming programs of excellence. Speaking on behalf of the entire Society, Ithank the many industry sponsors and generous benefactors who have
supported our programs and services. Their support enables ASCO to further disseminate its mission.
I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in the ongoing delivery of the ASCO mission.
Charles M. Balch, MD
ASCO Executive Vice President
Mission Statement
ASCO is committed to
Improving cancer care and prevention;
Advancing the education of physicians and other professionals in the care of patients with cancer and supporting the development of clinical cancer researchers;
Fostering communication among cancer-related medical subspecialties and the exchange of a wide range of ideas related to cancer, including its biology, prevention, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and psychosocial impact;
Advocating public policy that ensures patient access to high-quality cancer care and that supports increased clinical cancer research; and
Assisting oncologists in addressing the challenges of the modern-day practice of oncology.
Introduction
The ASCO mission statement identifies the Society’s core purpose—the continuing commitment to improve cancer care and prevention. This overarching goal is the driving force behind all of ASCO’s efforts. The pages that follow detail how this and the four supporting goals in the mission statement served as the foundation of initiatives that were begun or completed within ASCO President Larry Einhorn’s year in office, May 2000 through May 2001. Throughout the past year, ASCO continued its many ongoing activities such as the Annual Meeting, the Journal of Clinical Oncology and other publications, Clinical Practice Guidelines,media programs, patient advocacy,ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org), and work on Capitol Hill. This Annual Report focuses on only new initiatives and new aspects of ongoing projects that were begun during this timeframe.
Advancing the education of physicians and other professionals in the care of patients with cancer and supporting the
development of clinical cancer researchers
ASCO’s primary objective is to educate its members and others in the oncology community. The ASCO Annual Meeting has become the premier educational forum in clinical oncology today.
2001 Annual Meeting
Called “one of the best ASCO Meetings ever” by ASCO President Lawrence H. Einhorn, MD, the 2001 Annual Meeting drew more than 26,500 attendees from 106 countries. Science and education were strongly integrated in the Meeting program, and multidisciplinary approaches to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer were the focus of over 200 educational sessions and more than 1,700 abstract presentations.
Always a Meeting highlight, this year’s Plenary Session included the presentation and discussion of four abstracts that were especially thought-provoking. The first two studies represented ground-breaking science in molecular oncology. Both studies showed promising results with STI-571 for gastrointestinal stromal tumors, and their findings have implications for other molecularly targeted therapies in other disease settings. A lively pro/con debate followed the presentation of another Plenary study that stirred controversy surrounding neoadjuvant therapy with MVAC for bladder cancer. The fourth study answered—and raised—questions about organ preservation in patients with cancer of the larynx. Leading experts discussed the implications of the four studies, providing context for the results and describing the clinical application of the findings.
To make the growing Annual Meeting more manageable for attendees, ASCO developed 24 Meeting tracks—or series of sessions on disease-specific and oncology-related subjects. Prospective attendees could use the ASCO Meeting Planner, available on ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org), to create a Meeting schedule according to the track of their preferred interest. Attendees who took advantage of the track system commented on how much they gained by customizing their own Meeting. Based on its success, the track system will be refined and used at future Annual Meetings.
Other Annual Meeting highlights included a first-time joint symposium with the Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC), which addressed such issues as antiemetics, bisphosphonates, and pain management; a joint symposium with the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) on the implications of the Human Genome Project; a special session on physician-patient communication at the end of life; and the International Symposium, which included a panel discussion on breast cancer treatments around the world.
In addition, five individuals received Special Awards for their service to ASCO and/or the oncology community.
Heine H. Hansen, MD, PhD
Distinguished Service Award for Scientific Achievement
Charles A. Coltman, Jr., MD
David A. Karnofsky Memorial Award Lecture
Sidney J. Winawer, MD
American Cancer Society Award Lecture
Nancy Brinker, Founder, The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Special Recognition Award
Nancy L. Johnson, U.S. Representative (R-CT)
Public Service Award
Extending the Reach of the Annual Meeting
ASCO extends the reach of each year’s Annual Meeting by developing print and online materials that are distributed as a member benefit and may be purchased by other oncologists and health care professionals. These materials are an important educational resource for members unable to attend the Meeting and further enhance the value of the Meeting for those who did attend.
For the third consecutive year, the ASCO Virtual Meeting brought the best of the Annual Meeting to the Internet community through ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org). Among the more than 50 hours of live sessions captured for the Virtual Meeting are hundreds of poster presentations and other sessions that enable practicing physicians to learn about cutting-edge research and technology from the convenience of their office or home. The availability of the Virtual Meeting was immediate, with lectures and slides posted within 24 hours of presentation.
Several print materials also encapsulated various components of the Meeting for ASCO members. Two important publications—the Program/Proceedings and the Spring Educational Book—were once again sent to all members and attendees in advance of the Meeting. To accommodate the large number of Annual Meeting abstracts, the Program/Proceedings was published in two volumes for the first time. Meeting attendees needed only one volume onsite—Part 1, which included the full Meeting program in addition to all presented abstracts. Part 2 contained abstracts selected for publication only; these abstracts are a valuable resource but are not necessary onsite.
The 2001 Spring Educational Book contained 35 manuscripts based on presentations in Educational Sessions and Scientific Symposia. Among the 35 topics discussed in the book are new agents with new mechanisms of action, new molecular approaches for the early detection of cancer, sentinel node technique, cancer gene therapy, leptomeningeal metastasis, fertility and reproduction after cancer treatment, and new approaches to rectal cancer.
Three other publications—the Wrap-Up edition of ASCO Daily News, the Annual Meeting Summaries, and the JCO Annual Meeting Supplement—were sent to members in a more timely manner than in previous years. The Wrap-Up edition included coverage of the Plenary Session, the American Cancer Society lecture, the ASCO/MASCC session, a special session on the biology of cancer, and highlights from abstract presentations on prostate cancer, melanoma, and breast cancer. The Wrap-Up edition complements four issues of ASCO Daily News produced and distributed daily onsite at the Meeting.
In its third year, the Annual Meeting Summaries was expanded to include synopses of all 20 Oral Abstract Presentation Sessions at the Meeting, including the Plenary Session, as well as reprints of the original abstracts. The publication also provides insightful commentary from the experts who discussed the abstracts at the Meeting. For the first time, ASCO made the Annual Meeting Summaries available for purchase, bringing an overview and discussion of top oncology studies to a wider audience. Lastly, members received the JCO Annual Meeting Supplement, which contains more than 20 articles representing key presentations such as the Presidential Address, Award Lectures, the International Symposium, the Educational Symposium on integrative medicine, and the discussion portions of the two Integrated Symposia—one on the epidermal growth factor receptor and one on antiangiogenesis. In addition, the supplement included manuscripts developed from the sessions within the four-day Categorical Course on cancer prevention, which focused on tobacco control, lung cancer screening and chemoprevention, and risk-reduction strategies for breast cancer.
Other Educational Programs
In addition to the Annual Meeting, ASCO offers an educational event each fall and also conducts educational symposia in conjunction with these two meetings. The goal of all of the Society’s educational programs is to advance high-quality cancer care by improving oncologists’ knowledge.
2000 Clinical Practice Forum
With the 2000 Clinical Practice Forum, ASCO targeted community-based practicing oncologists and provided them with a concentrated learning experience featuring case-based interaction with experts in medical, surgical, and radiation oncology. The Forum featured two day-long educational series—one focused on gastrointestinal cancer and the other, on lung cancer.
Topics in the gastrointestinal cancer series included genetic testing and counseling in familial colorectal cancer, management of hepatic metastasis, multimodality treatment of esophageal cancer, molecular biology of colorectal cancer, and adjuvant therapy for gastric and pancreatic cancers.
The lung cancer series addressed such issues as adjuvant systemic and local therapy in the postoperative setting, controversies in combined-modality approaches for locally advanced unresectable disease, management of metastatic brain disease, prophylactic cranial irradiation, integration of new agents in the treatment of small cell lung cancer, management of patients with comorbidity and/or poor performance status, and recurrent disease after primary chemotherapy.
Several Meet the Professor sessions were scheduled to provide additional educational opportunities. Participants could select sessions on such subjects as myelodysplastic syndromes, biology of metastasis, mediastinal tumors, cancer of unknown primary site, chemotherapy for prostate cancer, management of head and neck cancer, update on testicular cancer, combined-modality therapy for large cell lymphomas, optimizing treatment of ovarian cancer, management of cancer-related pain, and clinical practice issues.
The Forum also included two panel discussions—one on the clinical management of breast cancer and one on the challenges in the management of melanoma. The Forum’s innovative program was designed on the basis of member feedback about ASCO’s fall educational event.
In addition to attracting more ASCO members to the Forum, the new structure allowed ASCO to market the event to a core audience outside the membership, working to draw more community oncologists into the Society. Again, ASCO extended the reach of the Forum by sending the Clinical Practice Forum Book containing manuscripts based on the two all-day educational series to all members. In addition, the Virtual Forum, posted on ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org), features several of the educational sessions as well as case-study presentations from the tumor panel on the management of melanoma.
ASCO Educational Symposia
ASCO presented seven Educational Symposia in 2000-2001, all designed to help oncologists enhance their knowledge in specific facets of patient care. Two new educational symposia were offered and five previously held symposia were updated or modified to address the evolving needs of attendees. (Symposia on practice-related topics are addressed on page 23.) In addition, ASCO introduced a new two-day intensive review course in genetics before the Annual Meeting.
The 2000-2001 ASCO Educational Symposia included “Cancer Care in the Elderly: "An Integrated Approach” This new symposium reflects ASCO’s effort to provide high-quality resources and educational programs in the area of geriatric oncology to both training directors and fellows. It was presented by the ASCO Oncology Training Programs Committee, with grant support from the John A. Hartford Foundation. To further encourage fellows and trainees to participate in the symposium, ASCO and the Hartford Foundation provided a number of scholarships.
“Integrative Medicine:The Oncologist’s Role”
Developed jointly by ASCO and the American Cancer Society, this new symposium addressed the physician’s role in talking with his or her patients about alternative and complementary therapies.
ASCO Genetics Review Course
This highly intensive academic program provided a unique educational experience in an area not fully addressed in traditional medical training. The focus of the course is the translation of the basic science of genetics into the clinical practice of preventive oncology, and it is designed to serve as one component of preparation for competency examinations in clinical cancer genetics.
“The Human Genome Project and Cancer: Implications for Clinical Practice”
As part of its continuing commitment to help oncologists and other health-care providers remain current in the fast-growing field of genetics, ASCO updated its genetics symposium to include a discussion of research findings from the Human Genome Project.
“Challenging Issues in Doctor-Patient Communication”
This symposium provided a collaborative approach to teaching specific tools and strategies that help oncologists communicate more effectively with their patients. Oncologists, psychiatrists, and palliative care specialists focused on ways physicians can improve communication skills, particularly in difficult situations, and incorporate them into their daily practice.
“Optimizing Cancer Care—The Importance of Symptom Management”
Based on the content of ASCO’s latest curriculum of the same name, this symposium provided attendees with practical, take-home information from recognized experts who discussed such essential topics as fatigue, neuropathic pain, sexual function, anorexia, mucosal injury, dyspnea, lymphedema, care without chemotherapy, delirium, and depression.
Early Career Development
ASCO is dedicated to its role in educating and mentoring oncology fellows to better prepare them as physicians and leaders in both academic and private practice settings. The Society supports the development of clinical researchers through its Fellowship Grants program and a wide range of programs and services that address the specific needs of fellows and junior faculty.
Annual Meeting
Fellows Program
ASCO again expanded its Annual Meeting Fellows Program to better meet the needs of oncologists in the beginning of their careers. New this year were Meet the Professor Sessions that offered a unique experience for fellows and junior faculty to discuss specific clinical and research issues with experts in areas such as breast cancer, lymphomas, and gastrointestinal cancers. In addition, a host of education sessions offered descriptions of career choices and guidance on career development, with such topics as interviewing techniques, communication skills, preparing clinical papers, creating posters, and writing grants. The program was developed jointly by the Fellows Task Force and the Cancer Education Committee. To reach an even wider audience of beginning oncologists, the slides from the sessions were posted on the Fellows Center Online Fellows Center
Another major accomplishment of the Fellows Task Force is its work in enhancing ASCO’s Web-based tools for fellows. Targeted as essential areas of interest were job search tools, information on Board Review Courses, opportunities for online networking with colleagues or mentors, and self-teaching tools. These essential areas became the focus of the ASCO Fellows Center, developed by a small group led by Catherine Klein, MD, ASCO OnLine Senior Editor of Professional Affairs, and Fellows Task Force member Brian Rini, MD (see below).
Fellowship Grants Program
This year’s Fellowship Grants Program, which includes the Young Investigator Award (YIA) and the Clinical Research Career Develop-ment Award (CDA), financially supported the greatest number of young oncologists in the history of the program. The early clinical research of 32 fellows and junior faculty was recognized with 24
YIAs and eight CDAs.
Since the establishment of the Fellowship Grants Program in 1984, over $15 million in funding has been awarded, making it one of the largest grants programs among professional societies. The program has gained increased attention among beginning oncologists, as evidenced by a 35% increase in award applications submitted over the past six years. Growing contributions from industries and foundations have made it possible to support more awards each year, and total funding reached $2.2 million this year (see graph).
Evidence suggests that the YIA provides a strong basis for the development of outstanding researchers. Since 1990, 15 YIA winners have received additional ASCO support through a CDA. In addition, follow-up analysis shows that 84% of all award recipients have continued a research career with a clinical
oncology focus.
*The number above each bar represents the number of awards given that year. The total number of awards has increased each year, while the total financial support has fluctuated because of the difference in grant amounts.
Young Investigator Awards
Brandon Bentz, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
“Nitric Oxide and Tumor
Cell Migration”
Ortho Biotech-Janssen Research Foundation
Puneet Cheema, MD
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
“Molecular Analysis of T-Cell Clonal Evolution in Plasma Cell Malignancies”
Aventis Oncology
Johann S. de Bono,
MD, PhD
Institute for Drug Development
“Inhibiting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Signaling in Metastatic Breast Carcinoma with ZD1839 and Determining Biological Correlates of Activity”
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Jakob Dupont, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
“Induction of T-lymphocytes Against Wilms’ Tumor Gene and against Telomerase”
ASCO Foundation
Michelle Renee Gerrero, MD, PhD
University of Pennsylvania
“Microarray-Based Analysis of Progressive Genetic Changes in Melanoma”
Genentech BioOncology
Balazs Halmos, MD
Beth Israel Deaconess
Medical Center
“C/EBP Alpha-A Candidate Tumor Suppressor in Lung Cancer”
Novartis Oncology
Anne-Renee Hartman, MD
Stanford University
Medical Center
“The Role of BRCA1 in Nucleotide Excision Repair”
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Paul Helft, MD
University of Chicago
“Impact of Internet and Media Information on Cancer Communications”
Immunex
Pasi Janne, MD, PhD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
“Chemoprevention of Lung Adenocarcinoma in a Genetic Murine Model”
Eli Lilly and Company
Mohamed Kharfan-
Dabaja, MD
University of Miami
“Dendritic Cell-Based Cellular Vaccines for Myeloid Leukemias”
Don Shula Foundation
Jenny Kim, MD
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
“Role of Cytoplasmic mu Heavy Chain in Steroid-Responsiveness in Pre-B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia”
Protein Design Labs, Inc.
Tatjana Kolevska, MD, MS
Columbia University
“Growth Inhibitory Effects of Sulindac Compounds on Human Melanoma, Sarcoma and Mesothelioma Cells”
Don Shula Foundation
Natasha Leighl, MD
Princess Margaret Hospital
“Optimizing Cancer Treatment Decision-Making: A Lung Cancer Patient Decision Aid”
Aventis Oncology
William Matsui, MD
Johns Hopkins University
“Differentiation Therapy in Multiple Myeloma”
Roche Laboratories
Ingrid Mayer, MD
University of Illinois
at Chicago
“Mechanisms of Action
of IFN-Alpha in Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia”
Roche Laboratories
Jaime Merchan, MD
Beth Israel Deaconess
Medical Center
“Uncovering the Antiangiogenic Potential of Human Plasma”
ILEX Oncology
Rajaram Nagarajan, MD, MS
University of Minnesota
“Function and Quality of Life of Survivors of Pediatric Lower Limb Tumors”
Wyeth Oncology
Ann Partridge, MD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
“Oncologists’ Practices, Preferences and Attitudes Regarding Providing Clinical Trial Participants Feedback on the Results of Trials”
Bristol Myers-Squibb Oncology
Raymond Pastore, MD
New York Presbyterian Hospital
“Predicting and Promoting Quality of Life after Stem
Cell Transplantation”
Merck and Company
Mercedes Porosnicu, MD
University of Miami
“Novel Anti-Cancer Strategies Using Vesicular Stomatitis Virus”
Don Shula Foundation
Michael Sabel, MD
University of Michigan
“Neoadjuvant Cytokine Immunotherapy Using PLA Microspheres”
EMD Pharmaceuticals
Manish Shah, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
“Clinical Development of Flavopiridol to Improve Chemotherapy”
Roche Laboratories
David Solit, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
“Enhancement of Chemotherapy Induced Apoptosis by Ansamycins through the Inhibition of
Akt Kinase Activity”
AstraZeneca Oncology
Jonathan C. Trent, MD, PhD
University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
“Signal Transduction Therapy of Soft-Tissue Sarcoma with the Tyrosine Kinase
Inhibitor STI-571”
Ortho Biotech Oncology
Clinical Research Career Development Awards
Mary Eapen, MBBS, MS
Medical College of Wisconsin
“Outcomes after Transplantation for Acute Leukemias in Children”
Ortho Biotech Oncology
Guillermo Garcia-Manero, MD
University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
“Studies of DNA Methylation in Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia”
Aventis Oncology
Ramaswamy Govindan, MD
Washington University School of Medicine
“A Pilot Study of Celecoxib in Patients with Barrett’s Esophagus”
Pharmacia Oncology
Raffit Hassan, MD
University of Oklahoma
“Clinical Evaluation of SS1 (dsFv) PE38, a Recombinant Anti-Mesothelin Immunotoxin, in Patients with Mesothelin Expressing Malignancies”
Eli Lilly and Company
Manuel Hidalgo, MD, PhD
University of Texas Health Science Center
“Targeting the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor for the Treatment of Colon Cancer”
AstraZeneca Oncology
Eddy C. Hsueh, MD
John Wayne Cancer Institute
“Endogenous Immunity as Target for Melanoma Immunotherapy”
ASCO Foundation
Jaume Mora, MD
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
“Gene Expression Analysis of Neuroblastoma”
Bristol Myers-Squibb Oncology
James L. Rubenstein, MD, PhD
University of California, San Francisco
“Treatment and Prevention of Lymphoma Dissemination within the Central Nervous System”
Genentech BioOncology
“THE ARTICLES ON STI571 WERE
PERHAPS TWO OF THE MOST
EXCITING PAPERS IN THE PAST 25 YEARS AND MARKED A NEW ERA IN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY.”
PATRICK J. LOEHRER, SR., MD, ASCO PROGRAM COMMITTEE CHAIR
“FOR MEMBERS OVERWHELMED BY THE SHEER SIZE AND COMPLEXITY OF THE MEETING, THE TRACKS PROVIDE A SIMPLER, MORE FOCUSED, AND SMALLER ‘MEETING WITHIN THE MEETING.’ THE TRACKS HIGHLIGHT THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUR SUBSPECIALTY GROUPS.”
GABRIEL N. HORTOBAGYI, MD, ASCO CANCER EDUCATION COMMITTEE CHAIR
2001 Attendee Profile
Professional Attendees 20,355
Exhibitors 4,341
Others 1,840
Total Registrants 26,536
Top International
Countries Represented
France 1,128
Germany 1,076
UK/England 765
Canada 747
Italy 728
Japan 678
Brazil 352
Argentina 334
Spain 311
Mexico 276
Belgium 211
Australia 209
The Netherlands 205
“THE ANNUAL MEETING SUMMARIES PUT THE SCIENCE OF THIS YEAR’S MEETING INTO CONTEXT FOR ASCO MEMBERS AND ONCOLOGY PROFESSIONALS WORLDWIDE.”
DAVID H. JOHNSON, MD, EDITOR, ANNUAL MEETING SUMMARIES
AS THE ORGANIZATION THAT REPRESENTS THE INTERFACE BETWEEN SCIENCE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE, ASCO IS ESPECIALLY WELL POSITIONED TO ENHANCE PHYSICIAN EDUCATION, FOSTER THE EXCHANGE OF IDEAS AND INFORMATION, AND IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF CARE FOR THE PEOPLE WITH CANCER.”
LARRY NORTON, MD, 2001-2002 ASCO PRESIDENT
“ATTENTION TO QUALITY-OF-LIFE ISSUES AND THE INTEGRATION OF SYMPTOM
MANAGEMENT IS BECOMING AN ESSENTIAL COMPONENT OF CANCER CARE.”
JAMIE H. VON ROENN, MD, EDITOR, ASCO CURRICULUM SERIES
Career Builders Includes classified ads, information on ASCO grants and funding opportunities, and interviewing tips.
Education Features
slides from Annual Meeting Fellows Sessions, Board Review Courses, CME Opportunities, Classic Oncology References with standard-of-care references, searchable ASCO abstracts and ASCO Educational Book.
Fellows Community Provides a message board, searchable oncology
fellowship database, and popular links for medical research and search engines.
Ask the Expert Enables fellows to use an online message board to communicate with a different oncology expert each month.
Diagnosis in Oncology Allows fellows to review case study illustrations, test their diagnostic abilities, and e-mail questions to Arthur Skarin, MD, Editor of this section and the feature of the same name in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO).
Oncology-Geriatrics
Fellowship Training Project
In support of its commitment to create programs for physicians in training, ASCO began a partnership with the John A. Hartford Foundation to develop specialized training programs in Medical Oncology and Geriatric Medicine for fellows at institutions worldwide. ASCO invited institutions to apply for funds to establish a three-year combined fellowship program in Medical Oncology and Geriatric Medicine. The goal of these three-year grants is to foster the development of academicians who will be well trained to provide patient care, teach, and, importantly, lead research efforts in the field of geriatric oncology. These three-year fellowships will result in Board-eligibility in Medical Oncology as well as eligibility for a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Geriatric Medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine.
“The Hartford Foundation has given ASCO
a wonderful
opportunity to do what it does best: drive the field of oncology forward—to drive it faster and farther to improve the treatment and care of older persons living with cancer.”
Fostering communication among cancer-related medical subspecialties and the exchange of a wide range of ideas related to cancer, including its biology, prevention, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and psychosocial impact
ASCO promotes the exchange of ideas among oncology subspecialties in a variety of ways in addition to its development of diverse educational programs. The Society’s sponsorship of educational events, its work with other societies and organizations, and its publications all serve to unite the oncology community by sharing research and findings from multidisciplinary settings. ASCO’s reputation as an authoritative resource for information on cancer has led to increased media coverage of the Annual Meeting, and this coverage, along with ASCO’s work with the media, helps ensure that important cancer-related news is communicated accurately to the public.
Reorganizing of Cancer Education Committee
The proliferation of ASCO educational programs in recent years led the Society to reorganize the Cancer Education Committee to provide a central programmatic focus and overall leadership for the development of programs and products. The restructured Committee is also charged with establishing ways the Annual Meeting can better serve the Society’s diverse membership, including continuing the development of the Meeting track system, and with streamlining the continuing medical education process. As such, the Committee will help to promote the exchange of ideas across a variety of subspecialties in oncology.
Journal of Clinical Oncology
ASCO’s flagship journal, the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO) continues to publish high-quality articles on ground-breaking science for oncologists around the world. Perhaps the highlight of last year for the JCO was its most recent impact factor ranking, which placed it second among peer-reviewed oncology journals. The JCO continues to surpass its early expectations, as evidenced by a consistent increase in growth statistics—the number of submitted manuscripts for 2000 is more than twice that for 1992 (see graph). In addition, the JCO’s substantial international presence is obvious as the number of papers received from overseas rises steadily. As a result of this growth, subscription rates continually increase as well.
Last year marked a significant change for the (JCO): the transition of the Editorship from George P. Canellos, MD, to his successor, Daniel G. Haller, MD. The official turnover to Dr. Haller and his Associate Editors occurred at this year’s Annual Meeting. Also at that time, Dr. Canellos was honored with a special reception for his service to the JCO. Dr. Canellos had been Editor-in-Chief since 1988 and was an inaugural Associate Editor from 1983-1987. Concurrent with the editorial change, the Editorial Office relocated from its home in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, to Alexandria, Virginia, where it joined the ASCO headquarters.
Alliance for Children Cancer
ASCO is facilitating and providing administrative support for the newly formed Alliance for Childhood Cancer, a group of 16 organizations that represent children with cancer, their families, nurses, social workers, physicians, researchers, and other advocates. The mission of the Alliance is to provide a patient and family-focused forum in which a variety of pediatric cancer interests may meet regularly, share ideas and concerns, and work collaboratively to advance the prevention, supportive care, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of children and adolescents with cancer. The Alliance, which is the result of recommendations from two national Summits on Childhood Cancer organized by the American Cancer Society, had its first organizational meeting at ASCO headquarters in January 2001.
Classic Papers & Current Comments
Four new issues of Classic Papers & Current Comments were published in 2000-2001, joining 15 issues published in the series since its inception in 1996. Each issue contains classic articles, on a single topic, originally published in the JCO, along with updated commentaries from the original authors or invited editors, to add new perspectives and enhance understanding. Topics are chosen by series editor George P. Canellos, MD, and last year’s topics represented oncology areas in which substantial advances had been made over the past five to 10 years.
˜ Highlights of Pediatric
Cancer Research
Guest Editor: Joseph V.
Simone, MD
˜ Highlights of Neurologic
Cancer Research
Guest Editor: Howard A. Fine, MD
˜ Highlights of Bone Marrow Transplantation Research
Guest Editor: Robert J. Soiffer, MD
˜ Highlights of Breast
Cancer Research
Guest Editor: Daniel F. Hayes, MD
ASCO News
From its humble beginnings as a page in the back of the JCO, ASCO News has become a well designed four-color quarterly magazine that offers ASCO members a wide range of oncology-related information. Under the leadership of Bruce D. Cheson, MD, ASCO News consistently improves and now includes an expanded section of news specifically for fellows, more diverse international news, features on oncology leaders and organizations, and detailed listings of educational events around the world.
Meet the Expert
ASCO reaffirmed its commitment to ensure that information about cancer reported in the news media is accurate, balanced, and presented in the proper context by offering the second annual Meet the Expert event, “The Human Genome and
Its Implications for Cancer.” The Society invited journalists to gain first-hand access to leading cancer genetics experts from across the country in an effort to help them better understand and report on cancer news related to the human genome. ASCO’s Meet the Expert series enables print and broadcast reporters to gain a better understanding of complicated topics,
subsequently leading to a better informed public.
First International Cervical Cancer meeting
ASCO joined the National Cancer Institute, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, to sponsor the First International Cervical Cancer Meeting, held in Baltimore in April 2001. Several ASCO members were among the distinguished international faculty who discussed the etiology of cervical cancer, screening in the developed and developing world, vaccines, the side effects of surgery and radiation, and quality of life.
An important ASCO goal is to help shape public policy on cancer-related issues, and the Society continues to meet with policymakers and legislators at the federal and state level to ensure that key decisions and actions benefit patients with cancer. Presidential initiatives and the evaluation of important issues in clinical research also help to support ASCO’s goal, as does the Society’s work on Capitol Hill, with advocacy groups, and with the State/Regional Affiliates Program. ASCO disseminates its policy statements and other health-policy related information among members to keep them informed of legislative and regulatory issues and to enlist their participation in identifying and working with policymakers concerning ASCO’s policy agenda.
Quality of Cancer
ASCO continued its work to identify and advocate high-quality cancer care, primarily through its involvement with the National Initiative on Cancer Care Quality (NICCQ). In addition, the Society began a new study to examine the effect of regulatory requirements on the quality of care and developed a task force to review issues surrounding the protection of people in clinical trials. ASCO has also developed new Clinical Practice Guidelines to help enhance the quality, effectiveness, and appropriateness of cancer care.
The NICCQ is designed to build a national system that will yield timely and meaningful information about the quality of care in all aspects of cancer treatment, from diagnosis through care at the end of life. The project, the 1999-2000 Presidential initiative of Joseph Bailes, MD, will define appropriate benchmarks to use in measuring quality of care and will strive to identify best practices. As important, Harvard and RAND research teams will identify possible strategies for building a national quality monitoring system.
The ASCO Board of Directors approved an expansion of the scope of the study to include 2,000 patients (1,000 with breast cancer and 1,000 with colorectal cancer) so as to provide more representative data. NICCQ researchers met with oncology community leaders and participating hospitals in all five study cities (Atlanta, Cleveland, Houston, Kansas City, and Los Angeles) to discuss the current status of the project. NICCQ research teams, along with the ASCO Task Force on Quality of Cancer Care, completed the development of quality measures for breast and colorectal cancer and are completing the first wave of patient surveys.
Palliative Care and Symptom Management
Supportive care services are frequently not available through health plan benefits, leaving many patients without services vital to successful treatment. ASCO began work with patient advocates on the Cancer Leadership Council to develop a comprehensive policy and legislation package designed to provide appropriate care for patients with cancer at all stages of disease.
Regulatory Burdens on Quality Cancer Care
Increasing documentation and regulatory requirements prompted ASCO 2000-2001 President Lawrence H. Einhorn, MD, to undertake a study of the impact of administrative requirements on the quality of cancer care, education, and research. By documenting the impact of this growing burden, ASCO can provide data to policymakers and help to build a fair and reasonable system that protects taxpayers against potential fraud or abuse without adversely affecting the quality of cancer care.
All U.S. ASCO members were asked to participate in a survey to assess the effect of these regulatory requirements on cancer research and patient care. According to the preliminary findings, presented during the Presidential Symposium at the 2001 ASCO Annual Meeting, 80% of ASCO members said that their work hours per day had increased and 74% said this additional time was spent complying with increased documentation and regulatory requirements. The respondents spent 1.4 hours a day documenting care, indicating that they spent less time with research and actual patient care. The study results were met with great interest from policymakers and are a reference point for legislative reforms of the Medicare system.
Task Force on Oversight of Clinical Research
Last year, the Public Issues Committee formed the Task Force on Oversight of Clinical Research. The formation of the group was in response to a number of highly publicized adverse events in clinical trials and growing scrutiny of research programs by federal oversight agencies. The Task Force is examining issues associated with the safety of individuals who participate in clinical research and has three major areas of focus:
Institutional review board (IRB)
functions, workload, and
oversight
Conflict of interest
Ongoing review of approved
trials
The Task Force is gathering direct input from IRB chairs, investigators, and administrators regarding the current system and opportunities for improvement. The results of these interviews, as well as a review of related literature and policies, will provide the basis for an ASCO white paper on best practices and potential for improvement. A subgroup of the Task Force is examining the policies of numerous institutions and other medical specialty societies related to professional, economic, and institutional conflicts. Based on this review, the subgroup will offer recommendations regarding conflict-of-interest policies as they relate to the global conduct of clinical research and ways that ASCO can address conflict-of-interest matters as an organization.
Clinical Practice Guidelines
ASCO’s evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines help guide practicing oncologists in their day-to-day treatment and care of patients with cancer. The guidelines are based on the best available evidence and are updated as needed to promote cost-effective, high-quality cancer care. This year, two new Clinical Practice Guidelines were developed, and one was updated. All of the guidelines are published as Special Articles in the JCO and are made available on ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org).
˜ Platelet Transfusion for Patients with Cancer [2001;19(5):1519-1538]
˜ Postmastectomy Radiotherapy [2001;19(5)1539-1569]
˜ 2000 Update of Recommenda-tions for the Use of Tumor Markers in Breast and Colorectal Cancer [2001;19(6):1865-1878]
Economic Issues
ASCO continued its efforts on Capitol Hill to gain support for
sustained progress in cancer care in the face of rising health-care costs. Two key issues dominating last year’s policy agenda were Medicare reimbursement for chemotherapy drugs, both injectable and promising new oral agents on the horizon.
Injectable Chemotherapy Drugs and Average Wholesale Price
ASCO worked closely with key congressional committees this year to develop an appropriate reimbursement system for chemotherapy drugs and related cancer care services. This decade-old issue came to the forefront this year when Congress reviewed a Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General report citing overpayment by Medicare for chemotherapy and other drugs.
In May, ASCO issued the policy paper “Reform of the Medicare Payment Methods for Cancer Chemotherapy,” which summarizes the issues involved and provides recommendations for payment reform.
During the August congressional recess, ASCO members in key congressional districts met with their legislators to discuss their views on fair and appropriate reimbursement for cancer care services. In September, following several weeks of discussions with cancer community members and almost a year of General Accounting Office (GAO) fact-finding, the House Energy & Commerce subcommittees on Oversight and Investigations and Health convened a joint hearing on reimbursement for drugs covered under the Medicare program. Larry Norton, MD, 2001-2002 ASCO President, testified that while ASCO agrees that Medicare payments for drugs and related services should be restructured to align payment amounts more closely with the cost of providing cancer care, cumulative payments after the restructuring must fully cover the costs of the items and services that oncologists furnish to patients with cancer in order to ensure that Medicare patients with cancer will continue to have access to the treatment they need. For the first time, members of Congress publicly acknowledged that reform of Medicare drug payments cannot occur without simultaneous reform of payment for practice expenses incurred by oncologists.
ASCO was asked–and agreed–to repeat the American Medical Association’s Socioeconomic Monitoring Survey to update the data that will likely calculate into the new reimbursement system. These efforts will begin in January 2002.
The Energy and Commerce Committee was not able to pass legislation before Congress adjourned for the year, and the other two committees with jurisdiction over the issue were not interested in taking action on the issue in 2001. All three committees are committed to reforming the payment system next year, and ASCO will continue to work actively with Congress when they take this issue up again in
early 2002.
Medicare Coverage of Oral Anticancer Drugs
ASCO is working with a coalition of patient groups, providers, and industry representatives in support of the Access to Cancer Therapies Act (H.R. 1624, S. 913), legislation sponsored by Representative Deborah Pryce (R-OH) and Senator Olympia Snowe (R-ME). The bill would extend Medicare Part B coverage to all oral anticancer drugs. At present, the overwhelming majority of cancer drug therapy is covered under Medicare Part B because the drugs are injectable and are administered incident to covered physician services. However, the only oral anticancer drugs covered by Medicare are those with an injectable equivalent. Because the future of cancer therapy will be largely based on promising anticancer drugs currently being developed in oral form, it is crucial to obtain Medicare coverage for these new agents. If Medicare coverage is not available, many patients will not have access to these important life-extending products.
Special Events
ASCO recognizes the important role of advocacy organizations in advancing the need for high-quality care for patients with cancer. The Society also recognizes the importance of the patient’s perspective, especially with regard to survivorship issues. Over the past year, ASCO joined forces with the advocacy community to heighten cancer awareness among policymakers and the general public.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
As a member of the Board of Sponsors of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM), ASCO participated in a conference held by that organization to chart its future course of breast cancer awareness and public education programs. William Gradishar,
MD, Chair of the Cancer Communications Committee, represented ASCO and worked with other conference attendees to examine the organization’s future strategic direction and explore ways to influence behavior change; ensure the credibility and quality of information flowing to the American public, health-care professionals, and the media; better meet public demands for and ensure equitable access to health information; and develop strategies with partnerships to advance NBCAM messages.
Rays of Hope In October 2000, ASCO proudly served as a Gold Sponsor of the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS) annual Rays
of Hope Event. As part of this commitment, ASCO prepared public
service announcements publicizing the event, organized a special VIP reception for honored guests, conducted outreach to promote news coverage of the event, and provided volunteer support and coordination for the three-day weekend of activities, including the Candlelight Vigil, the Ribbon of Hope Gala,
and the Rock ‘n Race benefit walk. Charles M. Balch, MD, Executive Vice President and CEO of ASCO, hosted the VIP reception at the U.S. Capitol, and Joseph S. Bailes, MD, Immediate Past President
and Chief Public Policy Liaison, represented ASCO at the Rays of Hope Event on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.
“DELIVERY OF HIGH-QUALITY CANCER CARE HAS ALWAYS BEEN A TOP PRIORITY FOR ASCO. WITH THE NICCQ DATA, BOTH PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS WITH CANCER CAN IDENTIFY CARE AND TREATMENT PRACTICES MOST LIKELY TO
PRODUCE THE BEST OUTCOMES AND PATIENT SATISFACTION.”
JOSEPH S. BAILES, MD
1999-2000 ASCO PRESIDENT
“WE WANT TO
SEE A FAIR RESTRUCTURING OF MEDICARE
PAYMENTS FOR CHEMOTHERAPY. ANYTHING LESS THAN THAT COULD SEVERELY DISRUPT OUR ABILITY TO CARE FOR OUR PATIENTS.”
LARRY NORTON, MD
2001-2002 ASCO PRESIDENT
ASCO served as a Gold Sponsor of the 2000 Rays of Hope Event, organized by the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship (NCCS). “ASCO’s partnership with patient advocacy organizations like the NCCS is symbolic of the thousands of individual doctor-patient partnerships that have formed all across the country,” notes Charles M. Balch, MD, ASCO EVP and CEO. Pictured is Ellen Stovall, President and CEO of the NCCS, as she addressed thousands who gathered in front of the U.S. Capitol for the event.
Assisting oncologists in addressing the challenges of the modern-day practice of oncology
ASCO provides a variety of practice-specific education and innovative online and print materials to help oncologists face the challenges created by increasing demands in the health-care arena.
Practice-Specific Education
In addition to Annual Meeting sessions addressing reimbursement issues, the challenges of everyday practice, and other practice-specific topics, the Society offered two Educational Symposia to help practicing oncologists gain tools and skills to deliver high-quality care while remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving health-care system. In one symposium, “Using Quality to Survive Managed Care,” sponsored by the ASCO State/Regional Affiliates Program, attendees learned how to identify strategies for measuring performance against survival, treatment, and established benchmarks found in medical literature and guidelines written by professional societies. The other symposium, “Medical Informatics and the Practice of Oncology,” focused on such key topics as privacy issues of electronic information, with a discussion of the Healthcare Insurance Portability Act; the electronic medical record (EMR) and implications of client/server or Internet-based implementations; and the factors necessary for successful evaluation, purchase, and implementation of the EMR in a particular setting.
Online Print Materials
ASCO uses ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org) to help bring new practice-related information to oncologists in a timely, convenient fashion. In addition, printed educational materials, written in lay terms, aid oncologists in helping their patients to better understand their diagnosis and treatment.
Guidelines on New Privacy Regulations
To help ASCO members come into compliance with the new privacy regulations drafted by the Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), the Society posted frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the regulations, as well as HSS guidance materials, on ASCO OnLine under the Cancer Health Policy banner. The Society will continue to keep members informed and will create programs and model forms to assist oncologists in complying with the privacy rules. The HHS had the authority to draft the regulations after Congress failed to meet the August 1999 deadline for passing a federal standard for protecting the privacy of medical records.
Web and Technology Reviews for the Oncologist
The online Web and Technology Reviews for the Oncologist features reviews of professional-oriented and patient-oriented websites. Visitors to this section can read about how well sites provide content useful to the daily practice issues of oncologists and to patients with cancer and their families. The reviews include a frank and critical editorial rating for several criteria.
Patient Materials
ASCO’s easy-to-read educational materials help reinforce oncologists’ discussions with patients about cancer diagnoses and treatments. As part of this effort, the Society developed Cancer Advances: News for Patients from the Journal of Clinical Oncology. This series provides information on the latest research published in the JCO and is distributed to patient advocacy groups twice monthly. The series joins its sister publication, Cancer Advances: News for Patients from the Annual Meeting, which provides consumer summaries of important research presented at each ASCO Annual Meeting.
“ASCO PROVIDES ME WITH THE EXPERTISE AND RESOURCES I NEED TO OPERATE MY PRACTICE AND CONTINUE TO PROVIDE QUALITY CARE TO PATIENTS LIVING WITH
CANCER.”
JUDY L. SCHMIDT, MD
TEN-YEAR ASCO
MEMBER
Looking Ahead
Over the next year, ASCO will develop several new and exciting programs and products as well as enhance its existing resources for oncologists and health-care professionals. In addition, strategic planning will set goals and establish priorities, charting a course for the Society over the next three years. As ASCO implements ways to diversify its memebership, the Society will continue to ensure that its members have access to what they need to provide high-quality care for patients with cancer.
Educational Programs
The ASCO year 2001-2002 will see the debut of several new educational programs designed to bring evolving science and its clinical application to oncologists in the U.S. and the international community. ASCO also remains committed to responding to identified needs in oncology, such as enhanced palliative care
and care of under-represented
populations.
Satellite Broadcast Program
ASCO’s pilot program consists of two symposia delivered exclusively by live satellite broadcast to
medical institutions around the world. These innovative learning opportunities will address the
management of breast cancer and the prevention and treatment of colon cancer.
ASCO/NCI Symposium on Molecular Oncology
For the first time, ASCO is working with the National Cancer Institute to develop a scientific symposium to help clinical oncologists better understand the molecular-targeted therapies that are now at the forefront of oncology research.
ASCO Curriculum Series/Educational Symposia
Three curricula in the ASCO series are in various stages of development. Scheduled for release in late 2001 is the ASCO Curriculum: Optimizing Care—The Importance of Symptom Management. Also being prepared is Cancer Care in the Older Population, which represents ASCO’s commitment to fill a gap in education in this important area. In the coming year, ASCO will offer Educational Symposia based on the content of these two curricula. In addition, the Society will update its first comprehensive curriculum, Cancer Genetics & Cancer Predisposition Testing, to keep oncologists current with the rapid growth of research in this area.
Issues in Palliative Care
In response to an Institute of Medicine Report raising concerns about issues of palliative care throughout the continuum of cancer care, ASCO began work with the National Cancer Institute on several educational and policy initiatives intended to improve supportive care for people with cancer.
Strategic Planning
In June 2001, ASCO created 10 Strategic Planning Task Forces to help develop a new strategic plan for the Society. The overarching theme of the 2002-2005 strategic plan is to enhance the membership value for each ASCO member. Each task force was charged with examining its area of expertise to determine what new strategic challenges ASCO will face during the life of the plan and to recommend strategic initiatives to address those challenges. The members of the task forces offered their advice and vision for ASCO’s goals, strategies, and initiatives, and a draft plan will be presented to the ASCO Board of Directors for review and approval. The Society will share the strategic plan with members at the 2002 ASCO Annual Meeting.
ASCO Online
ASCO continues to enhance one of its most valuable resources—ASCO OnLine (www.asco.org). The Society’s website has representative material from nearly every program or product as well as original material not available elsewhere. In addition, ASCO OnLine offers a convenient way for members to carry out many Society-related functions, such as submitting an abstract, registering for an ASCO meeting, updating the Membership Directory, and voting in the ASCO election.
Most members turn to ASCO OnLine for early review of Meeting abstracts, but other online areas are under-utilized, and ASCO is strengthening its efforts to promote these areas, which include Virtual Symposia, ASCO Grand Rounds, Weekly Feature Articles, the Cancer Health Policy area, and the Fellows Center. The Society has also developed new ASCO OnLine features, including the Web and Technology Reviews for the Oncologist (see page 24); Today’s Cancer News, a Reuters newsfeed; and a Virtual Symposium on molecular oncology. Also in development is an area to help Oncology/Hematology Carrier Advisory Committee (CAC) Representatives enhance their interactions with Medicare Carriers and Carrier Medical Directors.
Recertification
The ASCO Board of Directors has approved an effort that would allow the Society to provide educational resources for recertification by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). The proposed initiative would enable members to link to ASCO OnLine for information when completing the Board’s self-evaluation modules in preparation for recertification. The project reflects the Society’s commitment to assist practicing oncologists in their professional development.
Clinical Practice Guidelines/Technology Assessments
ASCO is currently conducting a systematic review of the literature on adjuvant therapy for B2 colon cancer. This review, which is an update of Cancer Care Ontario’s literature review done in early 2000, will be used to determine whether ASCO should develop a Clinical Practice Guideline on the topic. In another effort, a Working Group has been established to develop a Technology Assessment on the clinical utility of chemopredictive/resistance assays.
POLICY STATEMENT
ASCO’s “Statement on Genetic Testing for Cancer Susceptibility,” originally published in 1996, is being revised to reflect ASCO’s position on already recognized and newly emerging topics in the field. The revision will focus on identifying those subjects related to cancer genetic testing that are most important for health-care providers today including, but not limited to, human tissue research, recommendations for testing, laboratory issues, licensing of genetic professionals, and insurance reimbursement. Once adopted, the Statement will be published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology as the formal position of the Society.
Patient Materials
ASCO is developing additional materials to help patients better understand cancer treatments, the implications of the latest research, new diagnostic techniques, and other important cancer-related topics. Currently in development is a patient guide based on the 2000 Update of the ASCO Clinical Practice Guideline “Recommendations for the Use of Tumor Markers in Breast and Colorectal Cancer.” Also, two special issues of the Cancer Advances series are planned, one featuring highlights from the Society’s Meet the Expert event on the human genome and one offering content based on the ASCO Curriculum: Optimizing Cancer Care—The Importance of Symptom Management.
In 2002, ASCO will launch peoplelivingwithcancer.org, the Society’s new online source of accurate, reliable, oncologist-approved cancer information for patients. In the fall of 2001, ASCO assumed ownership of the cancer information website formerly known as oncology.com through a grant from Pharmacia Corporation. As the new owner of the site, ASCO is committed to enhancing the award-winning cancer news and information source, as well as developing new features designed to help people with cancer find authoritative and timely information on cancer quickly and easily.
Membership
ASCO is working to increase the breadth of its membership base by adding to its list of Reciprocal Societies—professional organizations with standards similar to those of ASCO. The Society encourages members of those societies to participate in ASCO by offering them a streamlined application process.
ASCO welcomed 2,300 new members in 2000-2001, bringing
the current total to 16,635
members.
As the Society continues to grow and diversify, ASCO leadership will continue to develop strategies to provide multiple modes of education; to help further the development of the next generation of clinical researchers; and to advocate for policies that are fair for practicing oncologists, that promote clinical research as a standard of high-quality care, and that ensure patient access to optimum care.
2000-2001 ASCO Board of Directors
ASCO is governed by an elected body of 17 volunteer members: President, President-Elect, Immediate Past President, Secretary-Treasurer, and 13 Directors. The Board is multidisciplinary and includes members from academic and private-practice settings. In addition, a designated seat for an international member was
established in 2000.
2000-2001 ASCO Committees
Following are descriptions of the various ASCO Committees. ASCO thanks the many volunteers who serve on the Committees. Their time, dedication, and hard work support the Society’s governance and the fulfillment of ASCO’s mission.
ASCO OnLine
Chair, Robert W. Carlson, MD
The ASCO OnLine Committee oversees the development and production of ASCO OnLine, the Society’s website for its members.
Audit
Chair, Donald L. Trump, MD
The Audit Committee oversees the conduct of the Annual Audit of the financial statements of the Society and its affiliated organizations as well as the internal controls and processes by which the Society’s assets are protected and enhanced.
Bylaws
Chair, Dean Gesme, MD
The Bylaws Committee receives and develops proposed Bylaws changes.
Proposed changes are circulated to the membership two months prior to the Annual Meeting.
Cancer Communications
Chair, William J. Gradishar, MD
The Cancer Communications Committee develops outreach programs to increase ASCO’s name recognition and credibility in the public domain. Its initiatives serve to enhance the prestige of ASCO products and services while educating the public and patients about complex cancer issues. Committee members also manage the Annual Meeting news programs and serve as Society spokespersons.
Cancer Education
Chair, Gabriel N. Hortobagyi, MD
The Cancer Education Committee assesses the need for, initiates, plans, and develops the education programs of the Society, with special emphasis on the Annual Meeting.
Clinical Practice
Chair, Michael B. Troner, MD
The Clinical Practice Committee addresses the interests of practicing oncologists, with particular emphasis on reimbursement for, access to, and quality of oncology services through advocacy and direct assistance to members of ASCO and its State/Regional Affiliates.
Continuing Medical Education
Chair, Ronald H. Blum, MD
The Continuing Medical Education Committee ensures the compliance of ASCO’s CME programs with the standards established by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) and provides recommendations on related policies and procedures to the Board. The Committee also analyzes and presents evaluation results to the Cancer Education Committee.
Finance Committee
Chair, Donald S. Trump, MD
The Finance Committee oversees the activities that constitute the ongoing fiscal management of the Society and its affiliated organizations as well as the performance of the Blind Trust Investments.
Grants Selection
Chair, Janice P. Dutcher, MD
The Grants Selection Committee reviews applications and selects recipients for the Young Investigator Award and the Clinical Research Career Development Award. The Committee also formulates policy related to the selection criteria, candidate applications, funding, and administration of the awards program.
Health Services Research
Chair, Charles L. Bennett, MD, PhD
The Health Services Research Committee coordinates ASCO’s program of health services activities, including the development of Clinical Practice Guidelines and the conducting of Technology Assessments. By its activities, the Committee hopes to improve the quality and appropriateness of patient care, enhance the physician-patient relationship, and provide credible information to assist third-party
payers in determining reimbursement policies.
International Affairs
Chair, Alan Horwich, MD, PhD
The International Affairs Committee focuses on the needs of ASCO’s non-U.S. members by working with various national and international oncologic societies to support worldwide research and continuing medical education in oncology and to promote the exchange of scientific information. The Committee reviews requests for ASCO endorsement or sponsorship of educational conferences in various countries on focused topics of interest to oncologists.
Membership
Chair, George A. Parker, MD
The Membership Committee reviews and recommends action on applications for Active, Active-Junior, Affiliate, Associate, and Emeritus membership status in accordance with the Bylaws.
Nominating
Chair, Gabriel N. Hortobagyi, MD
The Nominating Committee develops, in accordance with the Bylaws, a slate of candidates for the Society’s elected offices: President-Elect, Secretary-Treasurer, Board of Directors, and Nominating Committee.
Oncology Training Programs
Chair, Kenneth R. Hande, MD
The Oncology Training Programs Committee addresses issues relating to the training of fellows in medical oncology and oncology subspecialties, acts as a forum for interaction with training program directors, and coordinates the formulation of policy recommendations regarding oncology specialty training to the American Board of Internal Medicine and the Residency Review Committee.
Personnel Committee
Chair, Robert F. Ozols, MD, PhD
The Personnel Committee is responsible for reviewing ASCO’s employment policies, procedures, and practices, and for recommending to the Board of Directors needed revisions to current policies or new policies.
Program
Chair, Patrick J. Loehrer, Sr., MD
The Program Committee reviews and selects abstracts for presentation at the Annual Meeting and publication in the Programs/Proceedings. The Committee initiates, plans, and develops scientific sessions at the Annual Meeting.
Public Issues
Chair, Arlene A. Forastiere, MD
The Public Issues Committee coordinates ASCO’s public policy activities related to the delivery of optimal cancer care and the conduct of clinical research.
Publications
Chair, Joel E. Tepper, MD
The Publications Committee oversees the operations for ASCO publications, including the Journal of Clinical Oncology (JCO), Classic Papers and Current Comments, Educational Book, Program/Proceedings, ASCO News, and several others. The Committee ensures the commitment of the Society to education and advancement of research through the production of high-quality materials.
Special Awards Selection
Chair, Joseph S. Bailes, MD
The Special Awards Selection Committee nominates and selects ASCO’s Special Awards presented at the Annual Meeting. This includes, but is not limited to, the Karnofsky Award and Memorial Lecture and the American Cancer Society Award.
Sponsorship
Chair, John Rainey, MD
The Sponsorship Committee reviews sponsorship proposals, monitors the Annual Meeting Exhibit Hall to ensure compliance with rules and regulations, recommends initiatives for sponsorship, approves products for sponsorship, and proposes guidelines applicable to such sponsorships.
Executive Leaderhip and Department Directors
Listed below are ASCO’s Executive Leadership and Department Directors. In addition to serving as liaisons for various Committees, these individuals are responsible for managing the day-to-day work in support of ASCO’s ongoing programs and services.
Charles M. Balch, MD
Executive Vice President
and Chief Executive Officer
Ronald E. Beller, PhD
Vice President and Chief
Operating Officer
Paul Aines
Director, Finance and Administration
Dee Chamberlin
Director, Fund Development
Shyuan Cho
Director, Information Services
Jean Colvard
Director, Member and
Meetings Services
Deborah Kamin, PhD
Senior Director, Public Policy and Practice
Kristin Ludwig
Director, Communications
Mark Somerfield, PhD
Director, Health Services Research
Deborah Whippen
Senior Director, Education, Science, and Publications
Vital Statistics
During 2000-2001, ASCO experienced growth in many areas including membership, Annual Meeting attendance, and JCO subscribers and submissions. Following are some key indicators of ASCO’s continued expansion.
| 1999-2000 | 2000-2001 | | | | | Membership | 14,972 | 16,635 | | Meeting Attendance | 23,146 | 26,500 | | Meeting Abstract Submissions | 2,859 | 3,383 |
JCO Subscribers | 24,817 | 24,674 | | JCO Submissions | 1,646 | 1,799 | | ASCO OnLine Hits* | 9,151,486 | 12,458,161 | | 191,859 | 572,461 |
*Statistics for Membership and Meeting Abstract Submissions are given for the ASCO year (May to May) indicated; statistics regarding the JCO are given for the calendar year; and statistics for Meeting Attendance and ASCO OnLine represent the month of May only in each year.
Statement of Revenue, Expenses, and Net Assets
| FY 1999-2000 | FY 1999-2001 | | Dues and Subscriptions | $3,052,657 | $4,023,213 | | Meetings | 9,077,534 | 11,460,623 | | Investment Revenue | 1,578,189 |
-707,451 | | Publications | 6,340,544 | 6,211,300 | | Contributions | 6,559,769 | 10,594,203 | | Concert | 362,875 | 390,124 | | Other Income | 663,414 | 547,372 | | Total Revenues | $27,634,982 | $32,519,384 | | | | | | Expenses | | | | Executive Department | $2,624,396 | $2,960,187 | | Finance Department | $716,020 | 746,925 | | Programs | | | | Member and Meetings sservices | $4,676,762 | 5,507,985 | | Public Policy and Practice | 2,979,138 | 3,506,402 | | Education and Training | 2,610,390 | 3,365,926 | | Health Services Research | 455,715 | 507,382 |
| Science and Publications | 6,233,487 | 7,335,531 | | Awards | 1,625,841 | 2,182,337 | | Information Systems | 579,681 | 915,349 | | Concert | 468,379 | 434,120 | | Communications | 1,394,394 | 2,017,821 | | Other | 81,663 | 1,028,976 |
| Total Programs | $21,105,450 | $26,801,829 | | Fund-raising | $338,972 | $549,002 | | Total Expenses | $24,784,838 | $31,057,943 | | | | | | Change in Net Assets | $2,850,144 | $1,461,441 |
| Net Assets, Beginning of Year | 14,014,980 | 16,865,124 | | Net Assets, End of Year | $16,865,124 | 18,326,565 |
Note: The above financial information has been derived from ASCO’s financial statements audited by Renner and Company, CPA, PC. A copy of the audit report and the complete audited financial statements may be obtained from the ASCO Headquarters office by written request.
Sponsorship Acknowledgement
ASCO gratefully acknowledges and encourages the continuing support of the following companies and foundations. Without their generosity during the past year, the Society’s ongoing work could not be possible.
Agouron Pharmaceuticals
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
Annual Meeting Educational Grant (breast cancer track)
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
ALZA Pharmaceuticals, a division of ALZA Corporation
Annual Meeting Educational Grant
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Amgen
2000 ASCO/AACR Joint Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Merit Awards
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
AstraZeneca Oncology
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
Annual Meeting Summaries
JCO Annual Meeting Supplement
Young Investigator Award
Clinical Research Career Development Award
Merit Awards
Virtual Meeting
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Presidential Initiative: Impact of Regulatory Burdens on Quality Cancer Care
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
Annual Meeting Fellows Program
2001 Fellows Task Force
Annual Meeting Fellows Travel Awards
Preliminary Program Announcement
Final Program Announcement
Spring Educational BookASCO Membership Directory2000 ASCO Forum News2000 Best of ASCO CD-ROM
Annual Meeting Internet Sessions
2000 Joint ASCO/AACR Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Young Investigator Awards (2)
Clinical Research Career Development Award
Merit Awards
ASCO OnLine Journal Club
Virtual Meeting
State/Regional Affiliates Program
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Bayer Corporation-Pharmaceutical Division
Annual Meeting Educational Grants (cancer prevention, gastrointesti- nal cancer, and lung cancer tracks)
BioChem Pharma, Inc.
Merit Awards
Bristol-Myers Squibb Oncology
Presidential Initiative: Impact of Regulatory Burdens on Quality Cancer Care
National Initiative on Cancer Care Quality
Satellite broadcast of Special Session: "Doctor–Patient Communica- tion at the End of Life"2000 Program/ProceedingsAnnual Meeting Message Center
Annual Meeting President’s Reception2000 ASCO/AACR Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Young Investigator Award
Clinical Research Career Development Award
Merit Awards
Virtual Meeting
ASCO OnLine Journal Club
State/Regional Affiliates Program
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
EMD Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Satellite Broadcast of Special Session: "Doctor–Patient Communication at the End of Life"Young Investigator Award
Genentech BioOncology
Annual Meeting Summaries
Young Investigator Award
Clinical Research Career Development Award
Merit Awards
Virtual Meeting
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Gilead Sciences
Annual Meeting Educational GrantGlaxoSmithKline
Presidential Initiative: Impact of Regulatory Burdens on Quality Cancer Care
JCO Annual Meeting Supplement
Virtual Meeting
ILEX Oncology
Young Investigator Award
Merit Awards
ImClone Systems Incorporated
Annual Meeting Educational Grant
Immunex
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
Young Investigator Award
Merit Awards
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
Young Investigator Award
Lilly and Company
Presidential Initiative: Impact of Regulatory Burdens on Quality Cancer Care
National Initiative on Quality
Cancer Care
Young Investigator Award
Clinical Research Career
Development Award
Merit Awards
Virtual Meeting
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Matrix Pharmaceuticals
Annual Meeting Educational Grant
Merck and Company
ASCO Educational Symposium, "Optimizing Cancer Care—The Importance of Symptom Management"ASCO Educational Symposium, "Medical Informatics and the Practice of Oncology"
Young Investigator Award
Novartis Oncology
2000 Joint ASCO/AACR Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Young Investigator Award
Merit Awards
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Ortho Biotech Oncology
National Initiative on Cancer
Care Quality
ASCO Fellows Center
Satellite broadcast of Special Session, "Doctor-Patient Communication at the End of Life"
Annual Meeting Pocket Program
2000 Joint ASCO/AACR Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Young Investigator Award
Clinical Research Career Development Award
Merit Awards
2001 Benefit Concert Talent
ASCO Foundation, Charter Sponsor
Third Annual Meeting of Hematology/Oncology Carrier Advisory Committee Representatives
Ortho-Janssen Research Foundation
Annual Meeting Educational Grant
Young Investigator Award
Pharmacia Oncology
Satellite broadcast of Special Session, "Doctor-Patient Communication at the End of Life"
Program/Proceedings on CD-ROM
2000 ASCO/AACR Workshop: Methods in Clinical Cancer Research
Clinical Research Career
Development Awards
Protein Design Labs
Young Investigator Award
Roche Laboratories
Annual Meeting Maps
Young Investigator Awards (3)
ASCO OnLine Grand Rounds
Sanofi-Synthelabo
Annual Meeting Educational Grant
Annual Meeting Internet Kiosks
ASCO OnLine Weekly Feature Articles
Schering Oncology/Biotech
Annual Meeting Educational Grant (melanoma track)
The Don Shula Foundation
Young Investigator Awards (3)
Wyeth Oncology, a division
of Wyeth Pharmaceuticals
Young Investigator Award
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