STATEMENT OF NEED/TARGET AUDIENCE

Oncology is one of the most rapidly evolving fields in medicine. Results presented at major cancer conferences 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, the practicing medical oncologist must be well informed of these advances.

To bridge the gap between research and patient care, Cancer Conference Update uses one-on-one discussions with leading oncology investigators to discuss key clinical trial results presented at major oncology symposia. By providing access to the latest research developments and expert perspectives, this CME program assists medical oncologists in the formulation of up-to-date clinical management strategies.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

• Critically evaluate the clinical implications of emerging clinical trial data in gastrointestinal cancer treatment and incorporate these data into management strategies.
• Describe the key mechanisms of action of targeted biologic agents being tested in gastrointestinal cancers.
• Evaluate recent data and ongoing trials investigating preoperative chemotherapy for locally advanced esophageal and rectal cancers and metastatic colorectal cancer.
• Integrate emerging data on biologic therapies utilized in the management of advanced colon, rectal, pancreatic, gastric, esophageal and gastrointestinal stromal (GIST) tumors.

PURPOSE OF THIS ISSUE OF CANCER CONFERENCE UPDATE

The purpose of Issue 2 of Cancer Conference Update is to offer the perspectives of Drs Goldberg, Grothey and Blanke on the integration of data presented at the 2007 American Society of Clinical Oncology Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium into the management of gastrointestinal malignancies.

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 2.75 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 an audio component. To receive credit, the participant should listen to the CDs, review the CME information and complete the Post-test and Evaluation Form located in the back of this book or on our website, CancerConferenceUpdate.com.

This program is supported by education grants from Amgen Inc, Genentech BioOncology and Sanofi-Aventis.