CME Information: Second Opinion
STATEMENT OF NEED/TARGET AUDIENCE
Breast cancer is one of the most rapidly evolving fields in medical oncology. Published results from a plethora of ongoing clinical trials lead to the continuous emergence of new therapeutic agents and changes in the indications for existing treatments. In order to offer optimal patient care — including the option of clinical trial participation — the practicing medical oncologist must be well informed of these advances.
To bridge the gap between research and patient care, this special issue of Breast Cancer Update utilizes case-based discussions among clinical investigators to present the most current research developments in the systemic management of early and advanced breast cancer.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Develop an evidence-based treatment algorithm for the initial and extended adjuvant management of ER-positive early breast cancer, integrating knowledge gleaned from recent clinical advances and ongoing trials with aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen.
- Review the current clinical approach and ancillary laboratory testing to support selection of endocrine therapy for the premenopausal patient and the patient with chemotherapy-induced amenorrhea or a perimenopausal presentation.
- Utilize standard clinical factors and novel tissue biomarkers to individualize cytotoxic, endocrine and/or biologic therapy in the early and advanced breast cancer treatment settings.
- Describe the unique risks and benefits of acceptable single-agent and combination chemotherapy and endocrine regimens, and use this information to tailor treatment decisions for patients with metastatic disease.
- Explore the emerging role of growth factor inhibition and anti-angiogenesis in the management of breast cancer, and explain the investigational rationale for and safety implications of combining these agents with standard therapeutic interventions.
- Counsel appropriately selected patients about the availability and relevance of ongoing breast cancer clinical trials.
PURPOSE OF THIS SPECIAL ISSUE
The purpose of this special edition of Breast Cancer Update is to support these objectives by offering the perspectives of Drs Budd, Chlebowski, Forbes, Hudis, O’Shaughnessy, Sledge and Sparano on the integration of emerging breast cancer research data into clinical practice.
ACCREDITATION STATEMENT
Research To Practice is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
CREDIT DESIGNATION STATEMENT
Research To Practice designates this educational activity for a maximum of 1.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
HOW TO USE THIS CME ACTIVITY
This CME activity contains both audio and print components. To receive credit, the participant should listen to the CDs, review the Internet content and complete the Post-test and Evaluation Form located at www.BreastCancerUpdate.com/CME. www.BreastCancerUpdate.com/SABCS_2007 contains edited comments, clinical trial schemas, graphics and references that supplement the audio program, as well as links to relevant full-text articles, abstracts, trial information and other web resources.
