Last August 29th, Gramado in Rio Grande do Sul hosted Cura Talks Breast, an event conceived by the Cura Project Institute, held in parallel with the 18th Gramado Breast Cancer Congress and which brought together more than 50 guests and participants, including representatives of patient organizations, health professionals, journalists and influencers. With nearly 10 hours of intense programming, the event was a success, providing valuable insights into the importance of clinical research and advances in breast cancer treatment and care.
The day began with Catia Duarte, Counselor of the Cura Project Institute, who presented general information and guidelines for the participants. Then, Fernanda Schwyter, President of the organization, kicked off the activities with an inspiring opening, preparing the ground for the discussions that followed.
Between the moments of the panels, oncologist Dr. Pablo Barrios brought an in-depth view of the complexity of breast cancer in his lecture “Breast Cancer: Who Are You?”. Soon after, mastologist Felipe Zerwes highlighted the importance of early diagnosis in the evolution of treatment, presenting an overview of the current scenario and the challenges faced.
One of the highlights of the event was the debate that brought together representatives of important organizations such as Camaleão, Femama, Américas Amigas and AMUCC. For one hour, the participants discussed advances and challenges in the field of breast oncology, enriching the event with different perspectives.
After a brief break, Dr. Heloisa Resende discussed the relevance of clinical research and the importance of regulation, followed by a debate moderated by Fernanda Schwyter. The highlight of the morning was the roundtable with influencers such as Claudia Bartelle, Jussara Del Moral, Carol Magalhães and Gi Charaba. They shared their experiences and discussed the impact of onco-influencers in the dissemination of information about breast cancer, generating profound reflections among those present.
In the afternoon, interactive sessions brought up questions about inequalities in access to breast cancer treatment and the importance of the topic on the political agenda and in the interest of civil society. The lectures given by Dr. Ana Amelia Viana, Dr. Fernanda Bairros, Mônica Leal, and Cíntia Seben were especially impactful, providing rich and enlightening discussions.
Another important moment was the discussion about the journey of metastatic patients, conducted by renowned oncologists Dr. Carlos Barrios and Dr. Gustavo Werutsky. They addressed the issue of patients' longevity and quality of life, bringing a new perspective on survival to metastatic breast cancer.
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In her session, Dr. Alessandra Morelle addressed the impact of new technologies and artificial intelligence on the treatment of breast cancer, pointing to the future of oncology.
The event ended with a special session, where journalists Cristina Ranzolin, Alice Bastos Neves and Duda Streb shared their perspectives on the dissemination of information about breast cancer in the media, providing an inspiring and informative closing.
Cura Talks Breast 2024 has established itself as an essential space for the exchange of knowledge and experiences, reaffirming the commitment to the advancement of breast cancer research and treatment in Brazil. The recording of the event will be available on the Cura Project Institute's social networks, allowing the discussions to continue to reverberate and reach an even larger audience.
Watch Cura Talks Breast Gramado.
O Cura Talks Breast Gramado it was undoubtedly a milestone in the promotion of research and knowledge in oncology, reinforcing the importance of joining efforts to ensure continuous advances in the fight against breast cancer.
With the mission of promoting clinical research in favor of oncology, the Cura Project Institute, with Cura Talks Breast Gramado, reaffirms its commitment that healing begins with research, and that research saves lives.
In the photo: Fernanda Schwyter, President of the Cura Project Institute; Dr. Felipe Zerwes, Dr. Carlos Barrios and Dr. Antônio Frasson, creators of the Gramado Breast Cancer Congress; and Cátia Duarte, Counselor of the Cura Project Institute.
Cura Talks Breast was sponsored by: Daiichi Sankyo, Lilly, MSD, and Novartis.
Advances in treatment, which are changing patients' outlook on life, will be discussed at Cura TALKS Breast Gramado - a free event open to the public - on August 29th
“We have to change our perception of metastatic breast cancer in view of what we have in terms of advances in management and treatment. Everyone's job is to give light and attention to those patients that until now were hidden,” says oncologist Dr. Carlos Barrios, who is director of the Latin American Group for Clinical Oncology Research (LACOG). The expert's lecture is one of the highlights of the event. According to the doctor, in recent years, women with metastatic cancer are living longer and some of them have even been able to cure the disease. Some of the new medications are now available in the SUS.
The participation of Brazilian women in research is one of the flags defended by Cura, which is why one of the highlights is the panel Navigating the individual profile of patients on their breast cancer journey. One of the speakers will be the Bahian doctor Dr. Ana Amélia de Almeida Viana, from the Diversity Committee of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology. According to the expert, black women die more from breast cancer in Brazil, and one explanation is that black women are diagnosed with breast cancer at more advanced stages of the disease, making treatment difficult. “The problem is that the black population in our country has less access to diagnostic tests and specialized treatment. Besides, it's rare to see black women represented in campaigns. That's why many find it difficult to see that the message of the importance of health care is for them too.”
Cura TALKS Breast Gramado, designed by the Cura Project Institute, will be held as a parallel program to the 18th Gramado Breast Cancer, an exclusive paramedical congress. Some of these specialists will also participate in the Cura Talks Breast talks.
The dissemination of secure information, avoiding fake news, is another concern of the event. For this reason, journalists and influencers were invited to participate in round tables. Among them, Claudia Bartelle, from Rio Grande do Sul, who has had breast cancer. “Our role is extremely important, because since we influence, we have to do it with purpose. Since we can influence it to be for good and to make women aware that women need to take care of themselves and pay attention to their bodies. It's important to remember that we have a health schedule. The speech of each one of us can save many lives. That's my role in the social network,” she says. The closing theme, on the other hand, will be the Mama CA Patient and the information through the eyes of those who report the news. Journalists Cristina Ranzolin, Alice Neves and Eduarda Streb will participate.
About the Organization of the Event: The Cura Project Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to making society aware of the benefits of clinical research. The entity, which is at the forefront in Latin America, encourages health professionals to be researchers and raises funds to finance independent scientific or academic studies, through the promotion of scientific, sporting or social events. The organization also receives donations from individuals or legal entities - directly or indirectly - through the donation or deduction of income taxes, for example.
Service: Cure TALKS Breast Gramado
Date: 29.08.24 - from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Target audience: patient organizations, journalists, digital influencers, and the general public
Venue: Hotel Serrano - Av. das Horténsias, 1480
Free registrations for in-person participation on the site: https://www.sympla.com.br/evento/cura-talks-breast/2545649
Press Office:
Melissa Gass - 51 99573.5372
Flávia Marroni - 51 99877.8913
Free event open to the public - Cura TALKS Breast Gramado - brings renowned experts to discuss new treatments and the importance of safe sources about the disease
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women in the country. Therefore, it is important to encourage academic clinical research. The president of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, organizer of the event, points out that
“we need to know our population and carry out more studies to answer questions about the incidence of the disease in our population so that we can learn more about the peculiarities of the disease faced by so many Brazilian women”.
Cura TALKS Breast Gramado will be held as a parallel program to the 18th Gramado Breast Cancer, an exclusive congress for doctors. Some of these specialists will also participate in the Cura Talks Breast talks, presenting advances in treatments, including metastatic cancer.
Another focus of the meeting will be the discussion about the importance of disseminating reliable content, avoiding fake news and disservices. For this reason, opinion leaders - press, patient entities and digital influencers - are the target audience of Cura TALKS Breast Gramado.
Statistics: According to the Ministry of Health, in Brazil, excluding non-melanoma skin tumors, breast cancer is the most common in women in all regions, with the highest rates in the South and Southeast regions. For each year of the triennial period 2023-2025, 73,610 new cases were estimated, representing an adjusted incidence rate of 41.89 cases per 100,000 women (INCA, 2022).
The Cura Project Institute is a non-profit entity dedicated to making society aware of the benefits of clinical research. The entity, which is at the forefront in Latin America, encourages health professionals to be researchers and raises funds to finance independent scientific or academic studies, through the promotion of scientific, sporting or social events. The organization also receives donations from individuals or legal entities - directly or indirectly - through the donation or deduction of income taxes, for example.
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Service: Cure TALKS Breast Gramado
Date: 29.08.24 - from 9 am to 6 pm
Target audience: patient organization organizations, journalists, digital influencers, and the general public
Venue: Hotel Serrano - Av. das Horténsias, 1480
Free registrations for in-person participation on the site: https://www.sympla.com.br/evento/cura-talks-breast/2545649
The Prize designed by the Cura Project Institute, a non-profit organization, was created to pay homage to Renata Thormann Procianoy, stimulate philanthropy and recognize researchers in the field of oncology, encouraging the increase of academic studies in Brazil. This year, the winner of the 6th Edition of the Prize was announced on June 22nd in São Paulo.
Winner of the 6th Edition of the Renata Thormann Prociany Prize
The winner of the Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize in 2024 was the HERCULES Study, with Dr. Fernando Maluf as principal investigator, developed in research centers across Brazil.
Coordinated by Lacog Cancer Research - LACOG, the study pointed out a new path for the treatment of advanced penile cancer, with immunotherapy associated with chemotherapy. The results so far are impressive: 33 patients tested since 2020, of which 75% of them experienced some reduction in tumor volume and 39.4% showed significant reduction.
The award was presented by the president of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, together with doctors Fabio Franke and Antonio Buzaid, to Dr. Fernando Maluf, during the 1st Symposium on the Overcoming Cancer Clinical Research Network, organized by Overcoming Cancer.
A new feature of the 6th Edition of the Prize is that I mentioned the second ranked study in recognition of the second place, reinforcing the need to stimulate and encourage new researchers in the fight against cancer. The recognition award was awarded to Dr. Maria Cecília Mathias for the Study: impact on the survival of KRAS mutations in first-line metastatic colorectal cancer (Abstract number: 3547 - Institution: ICESP)
The award is an inspiring love story
The story behind the award is profoundly touching. Nora Thormann, a psychiatrist, faced a health problem and could not find an effective treatment within existing protocols. However, her daughter Renata Thormann Procianoy, knowing the importance of research, searched for innovative studies for two years that could help her mother. This search resulted in the inclusion of Nora in a clinical study coordinated by Dr. Roberto Miranda, at the MD Anderson hospital at the University of Texas, in the USA. The research sought to understand the relationship between breast implants and some rare types of breast cancer. And so Nora had a remission of her illness.
Unfortunately, a few months after Nora's cure, Renata suffered a car accident and died. Nora's testimony can be seen below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohLeWAOaBkg
History of previous winners
2019: Dr. Thiago Bueno de Oliveira
The first winner of the Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize was Dr. Thiago Bueno de Oliveira. His innovative research focused on the evaluation of circulating tumor cells in patients with head and neck cancer, offering new perspectives for the monitoring and treatment of this condition.
2020: Dr. Fernando Maluf
In 2020, Dr. Fernando Maluf was awarded for his study on a new drug for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer. The research, conducted at 14 research centers in Brazil, stood out for its promising results and its potential impact on the lives of many patients.
2021: Dr. Luciana Landeiro
Dr. Luciana Landeiro was the 2021 winner with her study on the use of electric hand warmers to reduce discomfort during scalp cooling. This technique aims to prevent chemotherapy-induced alopecia, improving patients' quality of life during treatment.
2022: Dr. Verônica Torres
In 2022, Dr. Verônica Torres was recognized for her study on the 2021 CKD-EPI equation without racial coefficient in adults with solid tumors. His research brought important insights for the assessment of renal function in cancer patients, promoting a more inclusive and accurate approach.
2023: Dr. Fernanda Bronzon Damian
The most recent winner, in 2023, was Dr. Fernanda Bronzon Damian. His Lacog 1018 study was highlighted during the Best of Asco 2023 - Brazil Edition, demonstrating significant advances in cancer treatment and reaffirming the importance of continuous and innovative research.
The Scientific Committee responsible for evaluating and judging the Brazilian studies presented at ASCO 2024, which took place in Chicago between May 30 and June 4, is composed of renowned oncologists. In alphabetical order, the members are: Dr. Abna Vieira, Dr. Max Mano, Dr. Cristiano de Pádua Souza, Dr. Eduardo Romero, Dr. Fernando Moura, Dr. Guilherme Harada, Dr. Mariana Scarantini and Dr. Pedro Neffá.
According to Fernanda Schwyter, founder and president of the Cura Project Institute: “It is a great pleasure to stimulate the development of scientific knowledge in the country, to collaborate with the improvement of treatment worldwide, and to improve the outcome of patients' quality of life.”
The Renata Thormann Procianoy Award is an important tribute to researchers and researchers for their dedication and innovation in the field of oncology. It pays homage to the memory of Renata Thormann Procianoy, encourages and recognizes the efforts of researchers who are at the forefront of the fight against cancer, contributing to a future where more accurate diagnoses and more effective treatments are a reality for everyone.
Now, the Bill has become Law 14,874/2024.
On May 26, 2024, the President of the Republic signed Bill 6007/2023, now known as Law 14,874/2024, which establishes guidelines on research with human beings and establishes the National System of Ethics in Research with Human Beings. The publication in the Federal Official Gazette — DOU, marks a significant advance in the regulation and ethics of clinical research in Brazil. However, two points of the Bill were vetoed and are subject to deliberation by the National Congress within 30 calendar days:
Paragraph 3 of art. 24 of the Bill - The need to report to the MP the participation of members of indigenous groups in research: “Despite the good intention of the legislator, the provision, by providing that the participation of members of an indigenous group in research must be reported to the Public Prosecutor's Office, violates the principle of equality and points to the possible situation of state protection in relation to indigenous peoples, a condition that has already been overcome by legislation.”
Section VI of art. 33 of the Bill - The end of the supply of experimental drugs to patients after 5 years of their commercial availability in the country: “Despite the good intention of the legislator, the legislative proposal is contrary to the public interest by establishing a period of five years for the continuation of the free supply of the experimental drug after the closure of the study”.
The sanction of Law 14,874/2024 represents an important step for ethics and regulation in clinical research, and the Cura Project Institute will continue to work tirelessly to promote health and well-being through research, remaining aware of the consequences of this law in the National Congress and will release any relevant news.
Reflections from the Cura Talks event - May
Bill 6007/2023 was sanctioned shortly after the Cura Talks - May Research Month event, held on May 21 in São Paulo. The event, organized by the Cura Project Institute in partnership with the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology (SBOC), continued the theme “Regulatory Pathways of Clinical Research in Brazil”. This was a fundamental space to discuss and understand the rights of research participants within the framework of the Bill.
Cura Talks Maio was attended by lawyers Angela Kung and Anna Luiza Bertin, both rapporteurs of the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of São Paulo (CEP/UNIFESP). They provided a detailed overview of the legal and ethical aspects of clinical research in Brazil, highlighting the benefits that these changes will bring to the health system. Fernanda Schwyter, President of the Cura Project Institute, was the host and mediator of the event, which was also welcomed by the President of SBOC, Dr. Marisa Madi.
May is the month of awareness about Clinical Research and the Cura Project Institute, in this month and every other month of the year, is committed to promoting events that inform and educate society about the importance of clinical research and the rights of participants.
If you missed the Cura Talks Maio broadcast or want to review the most important moments, the recording is available on our YouTube channel. Don't miss this opportunity to get up to date on a topic so relevant to the advancement of science and health in Brazil.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_B3EAQ5epZM&t=326s
The Cura Project Institute remains committed to following and disseminating all updates regarding Law 14,874/2024 and the impacts it will bring to the future of clinical research in the country.
Cura's commitment to Clinical Research
The events promoted by the Cura Project Institute, such as Cura Talks, Cura Meetings, as well as initiatives such as the Research Save Lives Movement, play an essential role in disseminating information and raising awareness about the importance of clinical research. These actions educate the public about advances and challenges in the area of health, in addition to promoting active community, lay and medical engagement, encouraging participation and support for research.
We, members of the Cura Project Institute, a cutting-edge institution in Latin America, are happy to see our work being understood by society and achieving its objectives, leading the mission of strengthening and expanding clinical research, contributing significantly to scientific progress, improving the quality of life of cancer patients and increasing resources for funding academic studies in the region.
The Cura Project Institute has been active in defense of the benefits of clinical research for the entire health system in Brazil and the need to expand patients' access to clinical studies. For almost 10 years, we have supported the funding of 11 researches, on different types of tumors.
In recent months, we have been attentive to understanding and enlightening the population about important points of Bill 6007/23, which will regulate clinical research in Brazil, since rights and obligations are guaranteed in our country, through laws.
In the midst of challenges, we share the approval of Bill 6007/2023, a framework for the regulation of research in Brazil.
In Brazil, laws are the foundation that underpins our rights and duties. And when it comes to science and research, regulation is fundamental to ensure safe and ethical advances.
The recent milestone approval of Bill 6007/2023 is an example of this. This Law is essential for the regulation of clinical research in our country, establishing clear guidelines and protecting both participants and researchers.
In this path towards approval, the role of the Cura Project Institute was fundamental, as it led efforts to implement it and clarified the important points of the bill and, through approaches to Social Networks, interventions with government agencies and events such as Cura Talks — Regulatory Pathways of Clinical Research in Brazil, which took place on March 15 in São Paulo (Event link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EtyifKKOQE&t=4981s). In this process, Cura has also demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that patients have equitable access to clinical research opportunities.
We strongly defend that “Research saves lives”. For this reason, it is essential to have legislation that guarantees rights and duties in the area of scientific research in Brazil, guaranteeing the safety, ethics, and quality of the studies carried out.
The Cura Project Institute plays an important role in defending patients' access to clinical research in oncology in Brazil. For almost 10 years, Cura has stood out for its dedication to promoting an ethical and accessible culture of clinical research, and to the awareness and education of civil society, informing about their benefits for the health system, how they drive medical innovation and have the potential to transform lives.
Points that highlight how laws play a fundamental role in the regulation of clinical research in Brazil:
Participant protection: Regulation through laws establishes clear guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of clinical trial participants. This includes informed consent protocols, monitoring for adverse events, and guarantees that participants are treated with dignity and respect.
Ethics in research: The laws provide an ethical framework to guide the conduct of clinical research. They define ethical and moral standards that researchers must follow, ensuring that research is conducted in a fair, transparent manner, and with scientific integrity.
Quality of studies: Regulation through laws helps ensure the quality of clinical studies, establishing standards for study design, data collection and analysis, and dissemination of results. This contributes to the reliability and credibility of the research carried out in the country.
Promotion of innovation: By providing a stable and predictable regulatory environment, laws can attract investment and collaboration, driving advances in the area of health.
International alignment: The laws that regulate clinical research in Brazil can ensure that the country is aligned with international standards of good clinical practice. This facilitates collaboration with foreign researchers and institutions, promoting knowledge exchange and participation in multicenter studies.
Public trust: Robust and transparent legislation increases public trust in clinical research. By knowing that research is conducted according to ethical and legal standards, individuals may feel more comfortable participating in clinical studies and supporting science as a whole.
We are now facing a new chapter, where the regulation of clinical research will be anchored in a law. We will closely monitor this process and continue to promote information and awareness of civil society, through our actions, events and campaigns, with the purpose of a culture of ethical and responsible science in our country and, especially, demonstrating the commitment of the Cura Project Institute to responsible science and to the well-being of all.
The Cura Project Institute, with the participation of important health stakeholders, celebrates the success of the 2nd Cura Talks, held on March 15 at the InterContinental Hotel in São Paulo. The event, which attracted a diverse audience, in person and online, was an important channel to discuss the advances and challenges of clinical research in oncology in Brazil.
The topic “Regulatory paths of clinical research in Brazil” highlighted the understanding of the paths of Bill 6007/23 and its consequences in clinical research. Since Brazil has made significant progress in this regard, the purpose of the event was to seek to understand and encourage an environment that is more conducive to the development of clinical studies and access to new therapies.
During the 2nd Cura Talks, experts highlighted the importance of clear and agile ethical regulations that promote the safety of study participants and optimize the approval process for new therapies. In addition, the need for tax incentives and adequate funding to boost clinical research in the country was highlighted.
The event also provided a valuable space for the exchange of experiences between researchers, health professionals, lawyers, patients, and support networks, highlighting the fundamental role of multidisciplinary collaboration in the advancement of clinical research in oncology.
The opening of the 2nd Cura Talks was held by the President of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, who mentioned that:
“In this 2nd Cura Talks we will understand the changes that will take place in the field of clinical research, after the approval of Bill 6007/23 for all diseases, not just cancer, and after approval, we will be able to organize ourselves to implement actions necessary for the proper development of clinical trials and guarantee the rights of research patients.”
The importance of clinical research
With an introductory approach to the 2nd Cura Talks, Dr. Carlos Barrios, Director and Principal Researcher of the Oncology Research Center at PUCRS São Lucas Hospital, covered a discussion about the importance of clinical research and its impact on patients. Dr. Barrios emphasized that clinical research is an activity that involves multiple dimensions, including scientific advances, development of new drugs, social impact, and improvements in health services. He emphasized that institutions with research centers tend to offer better care to all patients, not just study participants, due to improved routines and the development of best practices.
Two examples were shared to illustrate the benefits of clinical research. He highlighted that clinical research has the potential to reduce disparities in medical care internationally and offer access to state-of-the-art treatments, regardless of geographical location. In addition, he emphasized the importance of increasing the number of research centers and funding for regional research that addresses the specific needs of local populations.
Dr. Barrios concluded by reinforcing the idea that clinical research is a fundamental activity that directly benefits patients, promoting hope and offering access to innovative treatments. He emphasized the need to continue working to expand the reach of clinical research and ensure that it is accessible to all who need it.
The next steps for implementing Bill 6007/23
Congressman Pedro Westphalen, obstetrician and Federal Representative, participated in the event as rapporteur of the bill that deals with clinical research on human beings in Brazil (PL 6007/23). He highlighted the importance of this project to streamline clinical research in the country, allowing patients to have faster access to innovative treatments. The project aims to unblock red tape and guarantee the quality and safety of research, allowing Brazil to become a research hub of excellence.
The congressman emphasized the urgency of the project, stressing that patients do not have time to wait for state bureaucracy. He emphasized the need to sensitize the Senate to the importance of the project and to guarantee its approval and presidential sanction. He also explained that, once approved and sanctioned, the law will be valid immediately and regardless of political changes in the government. He also answered questions about the regulation of the project after its approval, stating that the government must implement it without delay.
With regard to regulations, Westphalen advocates that the CEP/CONEP system be directly linked to the Ministry of Health. Regarding the administrative steps after the approval of the law, the Deputy emphasized the importance of pressure and mobilization of society to ensure its effective and rapid implementation. He highlighted the willingness to discuss possible adjustments to the project, as long as they do not mischaracterize its main purpose.
Finally, Westphalen thanked the opportunity to participate in the event and made himself available to collaborate with the project, highlighting the importance of the Cura Institute and the engagement of all those involved in the promotion of clinical research in Brazil.
Stories that inspire Cura
The mother of a clinical research patient, Alessandra Santos, shared her experience during the 2nd Cura Talks. Her daughter began to show symptoms, complaining of pain in her left thigh, which soon became disabling. After going through three hospitals and several treatments without success, she was admitted and diagnosed with a condition related to rectocolitis, an inflammatory bowel disease. Later, she participated in a clinical study, her daughter's life changed for the better.
She now lives a normal life, with minimal side effects from treatment. Alessandra expressed her gratitude for the study and emphasized the importance of publicizing clinical research. She recognized that while there is no cure for rectocolitis, proper care and treatment are essential. Alessandra also highlighted the need to support families during the clinical research process. She encouraged others to seek clinical studies and emphasized the importance of being informed about treatment options. His message highlighted gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the event and share his story, highlighting the importance of clinical studies in improving health and in the search for effective treatments.
Papo Cura
Papo Cura during the 2nd Cura Talks was a debate between Luana Ferreira Lima, Dr. Angela Kung, Dr. Carlos Barrios and the audience present and online, mediated by Fernanda Schwyter. The discussion addressed topics such as research, regulation, and the participation of society in this process.
The introduction highlighted the importance of understanding and absorbing the information presented. Dr. Barrios was invited to talk about the relationship between international research and research carried out in Brazil, while Dr. Angela Kung, a specialist in health law and member of the CEP/CONEP system, brought her expertise on the subject. Luana Ferreira Lima, representative of civil society organizations, TJCC (All Together Against Cancer) also participated, bringing the patients' perspective and the need to include them in the research process.
It was clarified that research is not only carried out by pharmaceutical industries, but also by academic institutions and researchers and the importance of including patients in the decision-making process. A study by Dr. Heloisa Resende was mentioned, revealing that a minimum percentage of cancer patients are invited to participate in research by doctors, pointing out the need for awareness in this regard.
Sponsors: Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group - LACOG, DAIICHI Sankyo Brazil and MSD.
Support: ABRACRO, ABRALE, Oncology Observatory and All Together Against Cancer, Overcoming Cancer and Life Time.
The full recording of the 2nd Cura Talks is available for viewing on the YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4EtyifKKOQE
For more information about the Cura Project Institute, visit the official website: https://projetocura.org/
The Cura Project Institute will remain committed to promoting dialogue, education, and progress toward a more informed and engaged society. We look forward to having everyone's continued participation and support in our future initiatives.
Finally, the Cura Project Institute would like to express its sincere gratitude to the speakers, moderators, the Cura Team, and to the audience present and online, whose engagement and support were essential for the success of the 2nd Cura Talks. In addition, Cura records thanks to sponsors and support partners, whose support was fundamental to making this event possible.
The Cura Project Institute will hold, on the 15th, Cura Talks, which is an event that aims to provide guidelines for the challenges faced by cancer patients in Brazil and to provide a space for information and awareness on important topics, especially related to clinical research in oncology.
Cura Talks, which takes place in a hybrid form on March 15, 2024 in São Paulo, focuses on current and relevant issues that directly impact the quality of life and outcomes of cancer patients, as well as their support networks.
The purpose of the Cura Project Institute is to inform and make society in general, which includes health professionals, leaders of patient associations, patients, family members and all those interested in the fight against cancer, aware of various aspects of oncology, with special attention to clinical research. By doing so, we hope to empower participants to better understand the current cancer research landscape, its advances and challenges, and how this translates into tangible benefits for patients.
With the theme “Regulatory Pathways of Clinical Research in Brazil”, this edition of Cura Talks will explore Clinical Research and the regulations surrounding it in the country.
Check out the confirmed speakers:
Fernanda Schwyter - Founder and President of the Cura Project Institute
Dr. Carlos Barrios - Director and Principal Researcher of the São Lucas Hospital Oncology Research Center at PUCRS. Director of LACOG - Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group. Physician and Clinical Research Coordinator of the Oncoclinics Group. One of the most cited researchers in the world in 2023 - “High Cited Researchers 2023”
Congressman Pedro Westphalen - Physician and Parliamentarian, rapporteur in the Chamber of Deputies in 2023 of Bill 7082/2017, which was approved and provides for clinical research with human beings.
Luana Ferreira Lima - Lawyer, specialist in humanitarian action from the University of Geneva, master's degree in human rights from the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Public Policy and Advocacy Coordinator of the Brazilian Lymphoma and Leukemia Association (ABRALE) and Coordinator of the All Together Against Cancer Movement (TJCC) — Representing 300 Brazilian NGOs.
Cura Talks is an important event for a better understanding of clinical research in oncology, empowering individuals and communities to face this challenge more effectively and compassionately, bringing up-to-date knowledge and information, in addition to promoting an open and constructive dialogue aimed at continuously improving access to treatments for cancer patients.
Target Audience:
Cura Talks is aimed at a wide variety of participants, including health professionals, researchers, patient association leaders, cancer patients, their families and caregivers, as well as anyone interested in learning more about the fight against cancer and the crucial role of clinical research.
Don't miss the opportunity to participate in Cura Talks. Join us on March 15, 2024, at the Intercontinental Hotel in São Paulo, or participate virtually through the online platform.
For more information and registration, visit the event link: https://www.sympla.com.br/evento/cura-talks/2332503
We look forward to welcoming you to Cura Talks! Join us on this journey of learning and collaboration.
About the Cura Project Institute
The Cura Project Institute is a non-profit institution, created in 2016, dedicated to making society aware of the benefits of clinical research and addressing its importance for advances in cancer treatment, a topic of extreme relevance to public health and quality of life of the population of Brazil and other Latin American countries. The Institute develops activities aimed at advising patients, lay people, health professionals and government agencies about the importance of clinical research. Learn more by accessing the site: www.projectocura.org.br
On February 4th, the world came together in an essential awareness campaign: World Cancer Day. This date, marked on the global calendar, is an important reminder of our collective responsibility to address this disease more effectively and compassionately.
This year, the Cura Project Institute Joined the campaign of International Union for Cancer Control (UICC), whose theme is “For fairer care”. It's a call to action, a call to ensure that everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic or geographical situation, has equal access to the best care and treatment available.
“World Cancer Day reminded us of the global cancer emergency and how we all play our part in controlling the disease.” Ebele Mbanugo, Doctor of Education - Founder and Executive Director of Run For a Cure Africa
In accordance with this commitment, the Cura Project Institute highlights the importance of clinical oncology research. The phrase that Cura summarizes for this mission is: “Clinical Research saves lives and in many cases it's the only way to guarantee access to innovative technologies”. It is essential to understand that clinical research is not just a distant scientific investigation: it is a vital bridge between medical discovery and accessible and effective treatment for patients.
By launching a series of UICC informational materials, Cura aimed not only to raise awareness of the importance of clinical research, but also to highlight how these investigations are crucial for significant advances in cancer treatment. Each breakthrough in research is a new hope for those who face this disease, offering alternatives, new treatments, and technologies.
GO BY THE HANDKERCHIEF CAMPAIGN - ABRALE
In addition to the global campaign and, in solidarity with cancer patients, the Cura Project Institute supported, for another year, the Abrale (Brazilian Lymphoma and Leukemia Association) campaign, the “Go with the handkerchief”. We recognize the importance of showing support to those who are treating and living with cancer, and wearing a handkerchief was a way to express our empathy and support. This was a visible reminder that no one is alone on this journey and that we are united in the search for better care, treatment, and healing.
In this month that World Cancer Day was celebrated, our team invited everyone to join us, both in raising awareness about the importance of clinical research and in supporting patients and their families. Together, we can make a difference by promoting more just and compassionate care for all those affected by cancer.
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The American Society of Clinical Oncology has published important new recommendations regarding genetic testing of BRCA 1/2 genes for breast cancer patients. Check out details.
The Journal of ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) published some recommendations for patients diagnosed with breast cancer. These recommendations also apply to the family members of these patients..
Here's a summary of the recommendations cited in the article:
3. Patients who choose to undergo the BRCA1/2 test should also undergo testing for other cancer predisposition genes, as suggested by their personal or family history. Consultation with a professional with experience in clinical cancer genetics can help guide this decision-making and should be made available to patients when possible.
4. All patients diagnosed with recurrent (local or metastatic) breast cancer who are candidates for PARP inhibitor therapy should undergo the BRCA1/2 test regardless of family history.
5. The BRCA1/2 test should be offered to patients with a second primary contralateral or ipsilateral breast cancer.
6. All patients with a personal history of breast cancer diagnosed under the age of 65 and without active disease should be offered the BRCA1/2 test if the result informs personal risk management or family risk assessment.
7. All patients with a personal history of breast cancer diagnosed over 65 years of age and without active disease, who meet one of the following criteria, should take the BRCA1/2 test if the result is to inform personal risk management or family risk assessment:
8. Tests for high-penetrance genes other than BRCA1/2, including PALB2, TP53, PTEN, STK11, and CDH1, can help define the best medical therapy, influence surgical decision-making, refine risk estimates for a second primary cancer, and inform family risk assessment, and should therefore be offered to patients according to medical evaluation.
9. Testing for moderate penetrance breast cancer genes currently offers no benefits for treating the breast cancer index, but it can inform the risks of a second primary cancer or familial risk assessment and thus may be offered to appropriate patients who are undergoing the BRCA1/2 test.
10. If a multigene panel is requested, the specific panel chosen must take into account the patient's personal and family history. Consultation with a professional experienced in clinical cancer genetics may be helpful in selecting a specific multigene panel or interpreting its results and should be made available to patients when possible.
11. Patients undergoing genetic testing must receive sufficient information prior to testing and provide their consent.
12. Patients with pathogenic variants should receive individualized post-test genetic counseling and be referred to a professional experienced in clinical cancer genetics).
13. Genetic variants of uncertain significance should not alter the treatment definition. Patients should be informed that variants of uncertain significance can be reclassified as pathogenic and should understand that periodic follow-up is necessary. Consultation with a professional experienced in clinical cancer genetics may be helpful and should be made available to patients when possible.
14. Patients without a pathogenic variant in genetic testing may still benefit from counseling if there is a significant family history of cancer, and referral to a professional with expertise in clinical cancer genetics is recommended.
Link to publication: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.23.02225
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The Cura Project Institute presents the companies that support the NGO in 2023.
In a world where the Journey against cancer it's a constant process, Cura Project Institute stands out as a important bridge between science and the patient, expanding awareness, education, and information about clinical research to combat cancer and encouraging fundraising for investment in academic studies.
In the year 2023, we look back with gratitude for the support that made, and will make possible, significant advances in cancer research and awareness.
The Cura Project Institute would not be able to fulfill its mission without the essential support of various institutions and individuals, and sees in each donation, the partnership and collaborative effort that have been fundamental to boosting our capacity to face cancer more effectively.
With this, we would like to express the importance of all the companies that supported the Cura Project in the last year: Prognostic Clinic, Cancer Institute of Brazil (ICB), Alta Saúde Home Care, ONE — Ocean Network, UMotivo Channel and The Magal Way. We also thank Breast International Group (BIG), LACOG, All Together Against Cancer and Brazilian Mastology Society for their institutional support.
We emphasize that each contribution is immeasurable, since the impact of research goes beyond what we can see translated into treatments. It is a support that leaves a mark on science and on the lives of everyone involved in this universe.
A Awareness-raising is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. With the support of our partners, we were able to broaden the population's understanding of the importance of research and the challenges faced by those living with cancer. The dissemination of relevant information has been possible thanks to continuous collaboration with organizations committed to the cause.
Our big thanks to everyone! We will continue to fight, encourage research, and inspire hope until a cure is a reality for all.
Let's continue together to make 2024 even better!
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In an effort to understand the clinical research landscape in oncology in Brazil, the CURA Project Institute conducted a scientific study in partnership with LACOG - Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, entitled “Current scenario and future perspectives of clinical research in Brazil: a national survey”.
Led by the lead author, Dr. Heloisa Resende, Oncologist and Researcher, member of the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG) and President of the Scientific Committee of the CURA Project Institute, in collaboration with a team of renowned researchers, the study aimed to evaluate the current behaviors and future trends of Brazilian oncologists in relation to clinical research in the care of their cancer patients.
The initial segment of the research focused on gathering information about demographic details, medical education, and prior participation in research. The subsequent part addressed the main barriers to involvement and participation in clinical trials in Brazil.
The findings of this study were published in the renowned journal eCancer Medical Science, showing the importance of research in the scientific community, and Dr. Heloisa Resende played a fundamental role in advancing this initiative. Check out the publication by accessing the link.
A notable achievement was the acceptance of this research for publication at ASCO 2023, the annual congress of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the largest gathering of oncology professionals in the world, held in Chicago, USA, on June 2.
Check out the video of Dr. Heloisa Resende (Jardim Amália Research Center) talking about the study “A national survey of the current scenario and future perspectives of cancer research in Brazil” presented at the ASCO Annual Meeting 2023.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CtZ0oMcrwy
The main findings of the research clarify the following aspects:
- Demography of the participating doctors: Most of the doctors involved in the study work predominantly in capital cities and are linked exclusively to private health services. 57% of the interviewees work in the Southeast region and 77% in the capitals.
- Communication on Clinical Research: 1/3 of the doctors interviewed refer less than 1% of your patients to participate in clinical research
- The results of the study suggest a clear need for greater involvement of doctors in clinical research activities in Brazil. Strategies for patient education are identified as crucial to improve low recruitment rates and, consequently, increase the number of proposed trials in the country.
Here is the summary of the publication “Current scenario and future perspectives of clinical research in Brazil: a national survey”
Contexts: Epidemiological and clinical cancer research is essential for understanding tumor behavior and the development of new therapies in oncology. However, several countries, including Brazil, as well as many other regions of the world, have limited participation in clinical studies on cancer. Although 625,000 new cancer cases were registered in Brazil in 2022, only 2.2% of ongoing cancer clinical trials are available in the country. We conducted an online survey to describe the involvement of doctors with clinical research and to identify the main barriers that prevent the participation and conduct of clinical studies on cancer in the country.
Methods: An anonymous online survey with 23 objective questions was sent by e-mail to Brazilian members of the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group and the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology. The first 13 questions addressed demographic information, medical education, and previous participation in research. In the second part, the main barriers to engagement and participation in clinical trials in Brazil were discussed. Continuous variables were measured by median and amplitude. The analyses were performed using the SAS statistical software (version 9.4; SAS Institute, Inc. Cary, NC).
Results: 109 doctors answered the survey. Most of the participants were oncologists (N = 98, 89.9%), resided in capitals (N = 84, 77.1%), came from the Southeastern region of Brazil (N = 63, 57.8%) and worked in institutions that provided exclusively private care (N = 59, 54.1%). Of the 109 interviewees, 83 (76.1%) reported working in research centers (as researchers or sub-researchers). Surprisingly, 31.2% of doctors recognized that they invite less than 1% of their patients to participate in clinical trials, although 98 (89.9%) consider patient participation in clinical trials to be extremely relevant. The main barriers to conducting research in the country were the low number of available trials (48.2%) and the lack of qualified human resources to equip research sites (22.9%). Other barriers reported were the lengthy regulatory approval process (42.2%), followed by patients' lack of knowledge of clinical research, resulting in low recruitment rates (24.1%). Of the 26 (23.8%) interviewees who do not work with research, 25 (96.1%) reported interest in getting involved, 31.8% had already tried to participate in research, and 62.4% reported limited knowledge of clinical trial procedures.
Conclusion: These results suggest a clear need for greater involvement of physicians in clinical research activities in Brazil. Patient education strategies should improve low recruitment rates and, secondarily, increase the number of trials proposed in the country.
Authors:
Heloisa Resende, Taiane Francieli Rebelatto, Gustavo Werutsky, Gustavo Cartaxo de Lima Gössling, Vinícius Aguiar, Guilherme Lopes, Biazi Assis, Lilian Martins Arruda, Carlos H. Barrios
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During the official ceremony of the 2023 SBOC Congress, on November 17, the FIP-SBOC Award was awarded to notable projects that stood out significantly in the fight against cancer in Brazil. Among the winners, the Acceleration Project stood out as a promising initiative to accelerate the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer in the country.
The Acceleration Project, led by Dr. José Bines and with the Cura Project Institute as co-director, received recognition and donation of R$ 150,000, for its Phase 2, from the SBOC Research Incentive Fund (FIP). This Fund aims to support the development of Brazilian oncology research studies and initiatives focusing on reducing disparities and seeking equitable access to treatments.
Acceleration Project
Starting in 2022, in its initial phase, the Acceleration Project brought together a fundamental partnership with the health team of the Zilda Arns Family Clinic, in Complexo do Alemão. During this period, educational activities were carried out on breast cancer, in addition to the establishment of the registry and the trajectory of patients resident in that location.
Phase 2 Acceleration Project
General Objective: To decrease breast cancer mortality by reducing its presentation in advanced advances (III and IV).
Main Objective: Reduce the time interval between suspicion and treatment of breast cancer, currently from 6 to 8 months, to less than 3 months.
In the Brazilian context, the breast lesion biopsy and the histopathological report represent bottlenecks in the timely diagnosis and initiation of breast cancer treatment. The innovative proposal of the Acceleration Project aims to reduce these obstacles, improving the outcomes of this disease that affects so many lives.
The continuity of the project focuses on training Primary Health Care professionals to perform ultrasound and biopsy of suspected palpable breast lesions at the point of care. The speed and accuracy in obtaining the histopathological report are key elements to accelerate the diagnosis, delaying the time until the start of treatment and, consequently, reducing mortality from breast cancer.
The project strategy is to shift the focus from the current emphasis on mammographic screening to the implementation of an early diagnosis, through an approach based on adequate resources. The objective is to prevent a significant number of deaths from breast cancer, changing the current reality.
SBOC Research Incentive Fund (FIP) Award
The recognition and award of the Acceleration Project, in the SBOC Research Incentive Fund (FIP), represent a significant milestone in the oncology research scene in Brazil and in the continuous effort to address breast cancer in Brazil, promoting innovation and advancement in the approach to this complex disease. The importance of the Cura Project Institute as co-director of this project stands out as an important initial supporter for the success and positive impact of this initiative.
The FIP-SBOC Award highlights not only the quality of the research, but also the direct impact on patients' lives, signaling a more hopeful future in the Brazilian oncology scene and the role of the Cura Project Institute with the project, highlights its commitment to promoting oncological research in Brazil, and the partnership between Dr. José Bines and the Cura Project Institute highlights the important collaboration between professionals and institutions, engaged in advances in cancer treatment.
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Highlights of the Poster presented by the Cura Project Institute and LACOG at the XXIV SBOC Congress
Last November 16, during the XXIV Congress of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology (SBOC), a Dr. Heloisa Resende, oncologist and President of the Scientific Committee of the Cura Project Institute, presented an innovative poster developed in partnership between Cura and LACOG — Latin America Cooperative Oncology Group.
Titled “Improving access to clinical cancer research in Brazil: recent advances and new opportunities. Expert opinions from the 4th CURA meeting, São Paulo, 2023", the research brought to light important insights from 16 experts.
The paper, in poster format, corresponds to 4th Care Meeting, which took place in June 2023 in São Paulo. At the time, different representatives of the system of clinical research participants, such as CONEP, Anvisa, researchers, the pharmaceutical industry and NGO leaders, discussed how we can improve both scientific studies in the country and patient access.
According to the poster, clinical research is the cornerstone of improvements in cancer treatment. However, it has been conducted predominantly in high-income countries, with few clinical trials available in Brazil and other low- and middle-income countries.
The experts highlighted important achievements, including the reduction of time in regulatory processes involving Anvisa and CONEP. In addition, they emphasized the development of staff training programs, the maintenance of the National Oncology Care Program (PRONON), and the creation of qualified centers in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. These advances not only strengthen clinical research infrastructure, but are also important for the decentralization of these activities, expanding access across the country.
However, the event's debaters also highlighted the need to make Brazil more competitive in the clinical cancer research scenario. This requires an optimization of ongoing policies. In this context, there was a consensus among the participants about the importance of strategies that allow patients to obtain clear information about participating in clinical trials and programs aimed at doctors with the objective of achieving greater involvement of them, such as more time allocated by hospitals so that they can dedicate themselves more to research activities.
Accessible information is vital to involve patients and promote their active participation in this process. Experts emphasized that active and consistent reporting of ongoing initiatives can help to spread continuous advances, increasing Brazilian participation in clinical cancer research.
Dra. Heloisa Resende, author of the research, tells us more about the important poster selected for presentation at the SBOC Congress 2023.
What was the motivation for the 4th Cura Meetings to become a survey?
- The need to record that Brazil is making progress in research, for example, providing opportunities for meetings between various sectors of clinical research, through this meeting in São Paulo. Recording these advances is necessary for professionals from other countries, also involved in research, to see us with greater confidence and see us as partners in future projects.
What was the main data obtained with the research?
- Understand that the obstacles to greater access to research go far beyond regulatory barriers, that is, they are indeed a problem, but there are several other aspects to be addressed, involving the behavior of doctors and patients, difficulty in obtaining information, and greater need for the engagement of the entire society.
What are the solutions and paths taken to the challenges observed with the research?
- The path involves the involvement of all of us. In principle, each sector plays its role, with the common objective of increasing access to research. So NGOs need to promote more awareness campaigns for society, medical researchers need to be more engaged, the government needs to optimize regulatory process times, and the pharmaceutical industry must provide more opportunities for new centers in Brazil.
In addition to the presentation of the poster, on November 18, the President of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, participated in the “Clinical Research” Module at the congress.
During his participation, whose theme was “How organized society works to encourage Clinical Research in Brazil”, valuable experiences related to the organization of the Cura Project Institute were presented, further enriching the debate about the challenges and opportunities in clinical cancer research in Brazil.
The 2023 SBOC Congress took place from November 16 to 18, in person, in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The program was integrated into the 4th Brazilian Oncology Week, thus bringing together, in addition to clinical oncologists, oncologic surgeons, radiation oncologists, managers, researchers and many other professionals who form the country's large network of cancer care and care. The event is consolidated as a crucial space for the exchange of knowledge and strengthening the community involved in this vital field of medicine.
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The Cura Project Institute's campaign combats “fake news” about breast cancer on social media
With the pandemic, there was a great spread of false health news and, when it comes to cancer, incorrect information can be harmful to treatment and cause many health problems. But this is an older and very common conversation, where most cancer patients always receive “indications” of some miraculous cure for cancer: tea, a drink, and others, are offered by relatives and neighbors with the intention of helping, but they can end up getting in the way a lot.
With that in mind, the Cura Project Institute chose to follow a different line this Pink October, breast cancer awareness month, bringing a campaign to counter these myths in a direct and objective way: in big letters, false news is exposed and, in the following image, we see the message “The cure for cancer begins with research”.
“We, at the Cura Project Institute, believe in evidence-based medicine. What is that? It is the practice based on scientific studies and not on popular “guesses”, such as those detailed in the campaign”, explained Fernanda Schwyter, president of Cura.
According to Oncologist and Researcher, Dr. Liliam Arruda: “The search for a cure for cancer is based on research and the tireless commitment of the scientific community. However, the dissemination of disinformation, such as fake news, threatens to undermine the promotion of beneficial practices, underscoring the importance of basing our hopes and resources on truth and science.”
There are patients who are already aware of this issue and are committed to vetoing the dissemination of this type of information. This is the case of the health influencer, the publicist Paula Dultra, one of the pioneers to talk about breast cancer on social media. “I have been an oncology patient for 13 years and, in all that time, I've heard a lot of things! They have already told me to drink holy water, soursop tea, lemon water, and others. For me, who read, study, and create content, I already know that this doesn't work, but what about the patient who has no access to information? We have to think about that. That's why I use my site Mão na Mama and my social media profiles to help share secure information”, she said.
How to identify fake news?
The Cura Project Institute presents some careful guidelines before you pass on news that may not be true. Check it out below:
The most important thing is that when in doubt, you should not pass on the news and, if you can, consult a specialist.
Cura performs Live in Pink October, with the theme “Is there a cure for breast cancer?”
The Cura Project Institute is committed to the dissemination, information, and education about the importance of Clinical Research, and this month of Pink October would be no different. With an action that brings information to people, the institute intends to make people aware, through clear and objective language, of the best path to cure cancer. And to further expand this communication, the Institute will carry out through Instagram @Cura project a Live with the theme:”Is there a cure for breast cancer?”
Live will take place on October 19 at 8 pm, with Oncologists and Researchers Dr. Heloisa Resende and Dr. Lilian Arruda, to clarify and demystify myths and reinforce that curing cancer begins with research. At the invitation of Dr. Heloisa Resende, “the topic will be breast cancer, the most common cancer in women in Brazil. We will address the aspects related to the diagnosis and attitudes that we can all adopt towards a more favorable scenario, in which more lives are saved.”
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Experts and patients met on the panel of the Cure Project Institute at the 10th All Together Against Cancer Congress and showed that the country needs to place greater value on clinical research.
“Just as all the drugs and vaccines we use today required research before being used, the cure for cancer also requires clinical studies to be found.” The phrase spoken by Fernanda Schwyter, President of the Cura Project Institute, during the panel “The cure of cancer begins with research” held last Thursday, the 28th, during the 10th All Together Against Cancer Congress, meets the institute's mission, which is to be a non-profit association that provides information, education and funding to support clinical research for the search for a cure against cancer.
With the presence of Dr. Heloisa Resende, Medical Oncologist and President of the Cura Scientific Committee; Sr. Claudiosvam Martins Alves de Sousa, Clinical Research Coordinator of the National Health Surveillance Agency — ANVISA; Dr. Ricardo Caponero, Clinical Oncologist at the Oswaldo Cruz German Hospital, Master in Molecular Oncology, Coordinator of the SBOC Palliative Care Committee, President of the FEMAMA Scientific Technical Council and Clinical Studies Co-Investigator; and Ana Cristina Angrisano, a clinical oncology research patient; the debates showed not only in theory, but also in practice with the testimony of an oncological patient undergoing treatment through clinical research, how important and capable of reversing a scenario they are, guaranteeing quality survival and control of this type of disease.
As mentioned by Dr. Ricardo Caponero, “studies must not only show that they work, but also that they are beneficial to patients and, for this, we need more research”.
In his explanation, Claudiosvam Martins, Research Coordinator at ANVISA, reinforced the thesis by saying that “there is still a huge space for investments in research in Brazil, mainly from domestic investments, from Brazilian companies”.
Impact of Clinical Research in Brazil
Dr. Heloisa Resende's presentation focused on Neosamba research, of which she is also one of the researchers through the Jardim Amália Research Center, in Volta Redonda (RJ). The study is currently in phase 3, recruiting 500 patients, coordinated by LACOG - Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group, bringing together 19 research centers in several Brazilian cities. The research seeks to confirm whether the new treatment sequence (taxanes and anthracyclines), with drugs already available in the SUS in women diagnosed with HER2-negative breast cancer, with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (before surgery), show an increase in disease-free survival and in the overall survival of women with this pathology.
The oncologist also showed that in breast cancers, 27% of cases are already found in advanced stages and asked the question: - “can I trust the treatment sequence I have with the disease at this stage?” , thus showing the relevance of rethinking the standard protocol used and its impact.
Headed by Dr. José Bines, principal investigator of the study, who presented phase 2 of this Neosamba research at ASCO in 2018, conducted at the National Cancer Institute - INCA, with 118 patients, showed great benefits in reversing the standard protocol and, with the actions of the Cura Project Institute, it is becoming possible to carry out this study, which will have a global impact.
In addition to presenting the benefits of the Neosamba research to the population, Dr. Heloisa showed important data from another study carried out by the Cura Project Institute, which will be published soon, and which need to be taken into account, such as:
Concluding the panel, Ana Cristina Angrisano, a metastatic breast cancer research patient and volunteer at the Cura Project Institute, told how she entered clinical research after the remission of her second cancer in 2015. “I started clinical studies in 2017, two years after the second diagnosis. At that time, the expectation was nil. When you receive such a diagnosis and are faced with a few months' survival option, obviously my choice was for life. And here I am, years later. I wish the surveys to be for everyone!”.
At the end, a video was presented of a campaign to publicize the Neosamba research, by actress Patrícia Pillar, carried out by the Cura Project Institute.
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Collaboration: Estrela Comunicação - Press Office
Clinical research plays a fundamental role in the advancement of cancer treatment and, among the main sources of funding for these studies, are supporting companies. The Cura Project Institute highlights the importance of these companies for clinical oncology research, such as those developed by LACOG - Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, requiring continuous efforts to develop new therapies and treatments. According to Dr. Carlos Barrios, Oncologist and President of LACOG:
“Latin America has more than 600 million people and 1 million new cases of cancer each year. Clinical research is an opportunity for cancer patients, yet only 7.5% of cancer clinical trials are open in the region.”
LACOG, as a leading cooperative group in Latin America dedicated to clinical research in oncology, with an emphasis on the development of innovative therapies, is currently conducting 12 clinical studies and 24 epidemiological studies.
The NEOSAMBA study stands out, a study that evaluates the sequencing of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with breast cancer. This study will include nearly 500 patients and will help define the best treatment strategy for patients with breast cancer. In this context, the Cura Project Institute, LACOG and GBECAM, are proud to thank the support of companies that play a crucial role in the advancement of clinical oncology research. They are: Arteris, Cristália, Crown Embalagens, Elo, Nutrien Agricultural Solutions, PRIO, Rede D`Or and XP.
About the Cura Project Institute
The Cura Project Institute, a non-profit entity, promotes scientific, educational and social activities to increase civil society's awareness of the benefits of clinical research and to raise funds to finance independent studies to combat cancer in Brazil. More information can be found on the official website of the Cura Project Institute and on its social networks Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
About LACOG
LACOG — The Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group — is a non-profit organization founded in 2009 by a group of Latin American medical oncologists interested in developing clinical research. This is the first multinational cooperative group in Latin America dedicated to clinical and epidemiological cancer research. LACOG currently has more than 507 member researchers present at 200 institutions in 16 Latin American countries. The group develops observational studies to describe the diagnosis, treatment, and survival of cancer patients in various types of tumors, and also conducts clinical trials investigating new
biomarkers and new drugs.
About GBECAM
GBECAM is an independent, non-profit organization whose main objective is to develop, implement, and facilitate the conduct of multi-institutional clinical studies of scientific and ethical quality on breast cancer in Brazil, as well as to implement and assist educational programs for the clarification and prevention of breast cancer.
The research, carried out by the Brazilian Head and Neck Cancer Association, aims to map the reality of professionals who treat patients with this pathology at national level.
The Cura Project Institute supports Brazilian Head and Neck Cancer Association @ACBGBrasil in announcing the completion of the Extension Research, which aims to build an estimate of the national Head and Neck Cancer scenario.
This research will be carried out through the analysis of questionnaires applied with several professionals from the multidisciplinary team that treat these patients. Thus, for the first time in history, we will have an in-depth and real analysis of this cancer specialty and such data will contribute to the oversight of existing public policies and also to the construction of new ones, as well as serve as the basis for various projects aimed at the inclusion and rehabilitation of patients with head and neck cancer, as well as for the valuation of professionals working in the area.
Are you an oncology professional? There are 18 specialties, find yours and take part in the survey!
Click on your specialty to access the search. Alphabetical Links
1 — Administration
2 — Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
4 — Dermatology
5 — Endocrinologist
6 — Nursing
7 — Pharmacy
8 — Physiotherapy
9 — Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology
10 — Nutrition
11 — Dentistry
12 — Oncology
13 — Otolaryngologist
14 — psychology
15 — psych
16 — Radioncologist
17 — Social Service
18 — Occupational Therapy
More information: redemaisvoz@acbgbrasil.org and (48) 9 9169-4019 — WhatsApp
Source: ACDG Brazil
The 17th National Health Conference, organized by the Ministry of Health and the National Health Council, which took place from June 2 to 5 in Brasilia, discussed approximately 2,000 proposals and guidelines that will subsidize public health policies over the next four years.
The event brought together more than 6 thousand representatives of civil society, entities, movements and social organizations and was preceded by several preparatory stages, thousands of municipal conferences and 99 free thematic conferences, in addition to conferences held in all states and the Federal District. In these stages, 249 guidelines and 1214 proposals were approved, which were systematized in the Consolidated National Report and discussed in the working groups during the 17th National Health Conference.
The approved proposals and guidelines were submitted at the time of the Deliberative Plenary, which was held on July 5th and aimed at debating, approving, or rejecting proposals from the Report and the national and international motions. Finally, the result will be indicated in the Final Report, which in turn will support the formulation of guidelines for the Multiannual Health Plan (2024-2027) and for the State and Federal District Health Plan (2024-2027), and will guide the SUS in the coming years.
Within this context, the Cura Project Institute held a Free National Conference on April 31 and was included in the consolidated document with the theme: “What you should know about research and cancer: challenges and opportunities”. Through the delegates elected at this conference, Luciana Papaleo Peixoto and Fernanda Schwyter, Cura participated in the 17th National Health Conference and was guided in its proposals by the following Directive:
“To promote research to prevent and combat cancer in Brazil based on education and awareness among the population, academics and health professionals based on the importance of clinical research, and the engagement of government agencies in the discussion about the need for more agile clinical trial approval processes and incentives that promote and attract studies in Brazilian institutions, providing relevant data in the field of public health and guaranteeing access to innovative treatments for cancer patients in public networks and private.”
The proposals presented by Cura have been approved and will be officially announced on the channels of the Ministry of Health, and they fulfill the role of planting a seed to have a stable environment for independent and academic clinical oncological research, within the barriers raised and debated by Cura, which are intended to impact the training of doctors and health professionals, fundraising, decentralization of research centers and motivation of the pharmaceutical industry to bring more studies to Brazil.
According to Fernanda Schwyter, President of the Cura Project Institute and delegate to the 17th CNS:
“These were days of hard work, of much discussion and mobilization, but of great achievement. Life is much better when we have a purpose and it is more enriching when we are engaged by society for the same purpose, and we completed the 17th National Health Conference with success and approval of proposals in oncology. So, congratulations to all of us who were able to complete another stage of the journey in the fight against cancer, because research saves lives”.
Cura supports the TJCC motion
Also during the 17th CNS, the Cura Project Institute supported the motion registered by the TJCC - All Together Against Cancer, which requests the updating of the care models for people with cancer in the SUS. With the special support of the member organizations of the TJCC: Abrale, Oncoguia, ACBG, FEMAMA, Cura and SBOC, it was possible to collect more than 400 signatures in support of the cause.
Source: text prepared based on information from the National Health Council
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The event, which brought together important names in the health sector at the debate table, discussed the topic that proposed expanding the population's access to Clinical Research and reinforced the urgency of joining efforts to facilitate information for cancer patients.
The Cura Project Institute successfully held the 4th Cura Meetings, on June 16, in São Paulo. The event, which took place in a hybrid way, had as its theme: “Expanding the population's access to Clinical Research” and brought together representatives from various health sectors.
LACOG Photos/Cura Project Institute
The central objective of the 4th Cura Meetings was to promote a productive discussion about patients' access to clinical research in Brazil, seeking ways to expand this dissemination and reduce existing bottlenecks for conducting research in the country. The event provided a space for participants to share their evidence and suggestions for the obstacles imposed on the process and access to research.
The event was attended by highly qualified speakers, including Dr. Nelson Teich, Oncologist and Master in Health Economics; Dr. André Gomes, Head of Clinical Operation Bristol Myers Squibb and Dr. Andreia Melo, Head of Clinical Research at the National Cancer Institute - INCA. Each of the speakers brought valuable perspectives about the scenario.
During the event, the speakers addressed fundamental issues, such as the barriers that hinder the population's access to clinical research, the importance of promoting inclusion in studies, and strategies to involve and engage doctors and patients. The lectures collected important data from the research scene in Brazil, as well as were marked by questions about how to overcome existing challenges.
According to Dr. Nelson Teich, who addressed the impact of clinical research on the evolution of health systems:
“Research must be part of a country's politics, especially public policies, and for me research is a source of information. Information is essential for you to understand the system, make a diagnosis, define priorities, define actions, and make choices. Research is much more than you bringing an innovation”.
A panel discussion with renowned names from the health sector provided the 4th Cura Meetings with a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge. This discussion involved topics such as public policies, government incentives, and the importance of collaboration between sectors to strengthen access to clinical research.
Important names such as the Coordinator of the National Research Ethics Committee — CONEP, Lais Bonilha and the Clinical Research Coordinator of the National Health Surveillance Agency — ANVISA, Claudiosvam Martins Alves de Sousa participated in the debate at the 4th Cura Meetings, which also brought representatives from institutions such as the Chair of the Latin American Cooperative Oncology — LACOG, Dr. Gustavo Werutsky, the CEO and Executive Manager of the Brazilian Association of Representative Clinical Research Organizations - ABRACRO, Paulo Fernandes and Fernando Francisco and the Executive Director of the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology — SBOC.
The pharmaceutical area was also represented by the Associate Director of Astrazeneca — R&D Department, Dr. Roberto Jun Arai and NGOs, through the Executive Director of ABRALE/TJCC, Fábio Fedozzi.
The medical evidence from the debate at the 4th Cura Meetings came from the Oncologists and Members of the Cura Scientific Committee, Dr. Heloisa Resende and Dr. José Márcio Figueiredo, and from the Oncologist of the Hospital Sírio Libanês, Dr. Rodrigo Munhoz. To complete the panel, she was with the Cura Project Institute, the Master and Doctor in International Law — Lawyer and Researcher, Dr. Analuza Bolivar Dellari.
At the end of the 4th Cura Meetings, the participants concluded that it is essential to create a favorable environment for patients to have wider access to clinical research. To this end, it is necessary to promote public policies that encourage participation, increase awareness of the importance, and establish solid partnerships between the different health sectors.
The event takes place in the calendar of the Cura Project Institute, as an important moment in Clinical Research, becoming, with each edition, more inspiring and enriching, reinforcing the institution's commitment to playing a fundamental role in supporting information, education and other barriers imposed by the population's difficulty in accessing clinical research, such as: regulatory aspects, encouragement and training of doctors and health professionals, infrastructure and decentralization of Research Centers, investments in pharmaceutical laboratories and resources for the funding of independent research.
The 4th Cura Meetings, which was supported by the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG), the ETHICS Institute - Research and Teaching and PRIO, was attended by about 40 people in person, including participants and guests, with an audience of approximately 60 people who followed the event online and already generated more than 400 views for the recording of the meeting on YouTube. In order to expand knowledge on the subject, the recording of the 4th Cura Meetings is available on the YouTube channel of the Cura Project Institute. To access it, check out the recording below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39D2v-h-waI&t=9s
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura (Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn) or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
The “Lacog 1018” Study, which was developed with the objective of evaluating the benefit of combining two medications, in women with advanced, polytreated ovarian cancer who expressed hormone receptors, had the oncologist of the Hospital Fêmina and the Oncology Research Center of the HSL-PUCRS, Dr. Fernanda Bronzon Damian, as principal investigator
The Renata Thormann Prociannoy Prize 2023, an initiative of the Cura Project Institute that encourages clinical research in Brazil, recognizes the “Lacog 1018” research, the study that was developed with the objective of evaluating the benefit of the combination of letrozole + palbociclbe in women with advanced ovarian cancer who were polytreated and who expressed hormone receptors as the big winner of the year.
The research was conducted with women who had already undergone 2 different chemotherapy treatments, but their needs were not yet met. With the research carried out by Dr. Fernanda, an inhibitor was proposed to treat the cases.
The research included the oncologist at Hospital Fêmina and the Oncology Research Center at HSL-PUCRS, Dr. Fernanda Bronzon Damian as principal investigator and co-authors: Andreia Cristina De Melo, Graziela Zibetti Dal Molin, Angelica Nogueira Rodrigues, Aknar Freire de Carvalho Calabrich, Gustavo Werutsky, Elias Abdo Filho, Taiane Francieli Rebelatto, Rafaela Gomes de Jesus and Mirela Foresti Jimenez.
The Scientific Committee for the award was composed of renowned oncologists, such as (in alphabetical order): Dr. Abna Vieira Dr. Max Mano, Dr. Cristiano de Pádua Souza, Dr. Eduardo Romero, Dr. Fernando Moura, Dr. Guilherme Harada, Dr. João Victor Alessi, Dr. Mariana Scarantini and Dr. Pedro Neffá.
According to Fernanda Schwyter, founder and president of the Cura Project Institute: “It is a great pleasure to stimulate the development of scientific knowledge in the country, collaborate with the improvement of treatment worldwide and improve the outcome of patients' quality of life”.
The 5th Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize 2023 was announced last Friday, June 16, during the Best Of ASCO Scientific Congress in São Paulo, by the president of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, and presented by the president of the Scientific Committee, Dr. Max Mano, to the representative of Dr. Fernanda Bronzon Damian, Dr. Andreia Melo, co-author of the Lacog 1018 Study.
About the Renata Thormann Procianoy Award
Inspired by the story of the psychiatrist Nora Thormann, who had the help of her daughter Renata Thormann Procianoy in the search for research that would help diagnose and cure her health problem, which, after two years, resulted in the inclusion of Nora's case in a clinical study coordinated by the Peruvian Dr. Roberto Miranda at the MD Anderson hospital of the University of Texas (USA), the Prize is a recognition of the research that identified and treated Nora. The name is a
A tribute to Renata who, unfortunately, months later suffered a car accident and died, celebrating her tenth birthday this year. Check out Nora's testimony:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohLeWAOaBkg
About the Cura Project Institute
The Cura Project Institute, a non-profit entity, promotes social, scientific and educational activities to increase civil society's awareness of the benefits of clinical research and to raise funds to finance academic studies to combat cancer in Brazil.
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
With the objective of motivating the scientific community to continue with its excellent investigations and to renew its impetus to help others, the prize awarded by the Cura Project Institute has already recognized renowned Brazilian professionals in its previous editions
The 5th Renata Thormann Procianoy Award, announced during the Best of ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) 2023, will take place in São Paulo on June 16, the event, more than providing due recognition, seeks to motivate the scientific community to continue with its excellent investigations and renew its impetus to help the next and future generations, since it works in research in Brazil
can be challenging and draining due to lack of incentives.
In a ceremony that takes place annually as part of the main program of the Best of ASCO, — organized by LACOG (Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group) and Ethics — Research and Teaching, the Cura Project Institute has been awarding the award since 2019 that selects the best Brazilian work submitted to the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).
As explained by the President of the Cura Project Institute, Fernanda Schwyter, the Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize is evaluated by a scientific committee made up of research doctors associated with LACOG.
Throughout its editions, the Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize has honored important and recognized Brazilian professionals, such as:
The award ceremony for the 5th Renata Thormann Procianoy Prize will be held at an event for guests in São Paulo and the dissemination may be followed by the Social Networks of the Cura Project Institute.
About the Renata Thormann Procianoy Award
Inspired by the story of the psychiatrist and researcher Nora Thormann Porcianoy, who had the help of her daughter Renata Thormann Procianoy in the search for research that would help diagnose and cure her health problem, which, after two years, resulted in the inclusion of Nora's case in a clinical study coordinated by the Brazilian Dr. Roberto Miranda at the MD Anderson hospital, the University of Texas (USA), the Prize is a recognition of the research that identified and treated Nora. The name is a tribute to Renata who, unfortunately, months later suffered a car accident and died, celebrating her tenth birthday this year. Check out Nora Thormann Procianoy's testimony:
https://youtu.be/ohLeWAOaBkg
About the Cura Project Institute
The Cura Project Institute, a non-profit entity, promotes social, scientific and educational activities to increase civil society's awareness of the benefits of clinical research and to raise funds to finance academic studies to combat cancer in Brazil.
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
With 704,000 new cases of cancer expected per year in Brazil, the Cura Meetings event created by the Cura Project Institute reinforces the need to make society aware of the benefits of clinical research
The Cura Project Institute is holding the fourth edition of Cura Meetings, a meeting that aims to continue an important debate with representatives from different health sectors and to outline strategies to expand patients' access to research in Brazil. With the theme “Expanding the population's access to Clinical Research”, the event, online and free, is supported by the Latin American Cooperative Oncology Group (LACOG) and the ETHICS Institute - Research and Teaching.
The 4th Cura Meetings will take place on June 16, from 14:00 to 17:00 in São Paulo and will have a face-to-face format for guests and will be transmitted online, in order to expand the knowledge and dissemination of this very important topic. To have access to the broadcast, the public must register online and free of charge, Through the link and fill out the form. After that, registrants will receive the information to follow the event, wherever they are.
Cura Meetings is already part of the Cura Project Institute's calendar of actions, and has already brought to its discussion table multiple relevant actors involved in the scenario, such as the medical community, researchers, patient associations, the pharmaceutical industry, public authorities (Ministry of Health), the medical community, representatives of clinical research centers and CROs.
According to Fernanda Schwyter, President of the Cura Project Institute: “Cura Meetings is part of the actions to mobilize directly or indirectly to support the cause that the Cura Project Institute works on a daily basis. The expected result is society's commitment to funding studies
clinicals/academics promoting the best treatment of patients, especially cancer”.
With the presence of approximately forty authorities, doctors and members of civil society, the 4th Cura Meetings announces its preliminary schedule (subject to change). Check it out:
4TH CURA MEETINGS SCHEDULE - June 16, 2023:
14 at 14:15 - Overture
14:15 to 14:30 - 1st Conference: Health in Brazil and the World and the impact of
Clinical Research in the evolution of health systems - Dr. Nelson Teich - Doctor
Oncologist and Master in Health Economics
14:30 to 14:45 - 2nd Conference: Pharmaceutical Industry: Brazil in the context
worldwide - André Gomes - Head of Clinical Operation Bristol
14:45 to 15:00 - 3rd Conference: The challenges of academic clinical research in
Brazil - Dr. Andreia Melo - Head of Clinical Research at INCA
15:00 to 15:15 - halftime
15:15 to 16:45 — Debate
- Confirmed debaters:
16:45 to 17:00 - Final Thoughts and Closing
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About Oncology Clinical Research
According to the 2023 Estimate on the Incidence of Cancer in Brazil released by the National Cancer Institute (INCA) of the Ministry of Health, the expectation is that there will be 704,000 new cases of cancer in Brazil per year from 2023 to 2025.
Under this scenario, scientific research is not only necessary but urgent, but to get an idea, only 2.3% of global studies are carried out in Brazil, and the average time for approval of clinical studies in the country is 215 days, much higher than countries such as Argentina (113 days), Mexico (86 days) and the United States (only 32 days). Barriers are also found for the institution
of these studies in Brazil, especially with regard to bureaucratic restrictions, multiple instances of government approval, unpredictability of the study approval schedule, restricted funding sources, lack of public interest and patient awareness.
Thus, in order for new drugs and improved protocols for cancer diagnostics, tests, and treatment to be available on the market to the population, several steps are necessary to obtain registrations for these products or procedures. This registration is only possible after the various phases of proving the efficacy and safety of the drug or procedure. This evidence is found in research trials, from basic research to clinical research, involving human beings.
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
May 31 is World No Tobacco Day and oncologist Dr. Suellen Nastri Castro speaks about the topic at the request of the Cura Project Institute
According to the WHO (World Health Organization), smoking is the leading preventable cause of illness and early death in the world, and is related to several serious diseases such as cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (pulmonary emphysema and chronic bronchitis), coronary artery disease (angina and heart attack), and stroke (also known as “stroke”). In addition, the use of tobacco is also related to conditions such as infertility and sexual impotence.
It is estimated that smoking is associated with one third of all diagnosed cancers. Globally, there are more than 8 million deaths a year related to tobacco, 7 million from active use and 1.2 million from passive exposure.
Brazil is considered an example, a reference, as one of the countries that smokes the least, due to the establishment of federal anti-smoking laws. As a result, these laws allowed for a significant reduction in smoking in the country.
According to Dr. Suellen Nastri Castro, oncologist, “quitting smoking promotes several health benefits for individuals, including those who already have complications associated with smoking. The cessation of smoking, at any age, allows a significant increase in a person's life expectancy, in addition to, of course, improving the quality of life”.
The specialist also reinforces the importance of the existence of smoking cessation programs in several hospitals/institutions across Brazil, and that they have several professionals who assist the individual in this process, offering follow-up, drug treatments and psychotherapy. “It is highly recommended to carry out periodic examinations for the early detection of serious diseases related to cigarettes, such as low-dose radiation tomography annually in a population at risk for lung cancer, such as people who are smokers, or former smokers, aged 50-80 years“, said the doctor.
For more information, talk to your doctor. If you can't quit smoking on your own, ask for help!
Collaboration:
Dr. Suellen Nastri Castro (CRM-SP 151.417) - Clinical Oncologist at Hospital BP — The Benedicência Portuguesa de São Paulo. Author of the book Overcoming Lung Cancer and Pleural Mesothelioma from the Overcoming Cancer Institute. Graduated in clinical oncology from the Brazilian Institute for Cancer Control in São Paulo (now São Camilo Oncology)
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
Action #TheMagalWay will benefit the Cura Project in a donation campaign
A campaign #TheMagalWay - Cycling to support cancer research, emerged in the life of Brazilian Marcos Magalhães, who lives in the United States, as a way to explore his passion for bicycle competitions to inspire people to practice physical activities and raise funds for a good cause: cancer research.
In this year's season, Marcos Magalhães will participate in several cycling events, the most important of which is a journey through the Patagonian Pampas, traveling across lakes and mountains along Chile's iconic Carretera Austral and Pacific fjords. This will take place in November of this year, in “Blue November”, which is a month dedicated to raising awareness about men's health problems, focusing on prostate cancer.
And for that journey, Marcos chose the Cura Project Institute to benefit from the donations collected in the action, which, in the words of the cyclist himself: “I set an ambitious goal because we know that, with the support of people like you, we can achieve it. Please be sure to make your donation and follow my journey at @themagalway” — explains the athlete.
Learn more about the #TheMagalWay journey, following the cyclist Marcos Magalhães on his Social Networks @themagalway and, to participate with a donation, simply log in and access the link: https://projetocura.org/c/themagalway/
To make a donation and learn more about our projects, visit our Donation tab, follow our Social Networks @projetocura or contact us at eventos@projetocura.org
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