Best of ASCO Features Three Studies Led by US Oncology Affiliated Physicians

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, June 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Three clinical trials studies with prominent authorship by physicians affiliated with the United Network of US Oncology have been selected to be featured in the Best of ASCO to be held July 16 – 17 in San Francisco and July 23 -24 in Boston.

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The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) hosts its 46th Annual Meeting June 4-8 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The ASCO Annual Meeting is the premier educational and scientific event in the oncology community. It highlights the most advanced treatments in cancer care and attracts more than 23,000 cancer specialists from around the world. This year's annual meeting will feature clinical trials studies that include contributions from more than 50 clinical investigators affiliated with US Oncology, Inc., the leading integrated oncology company uniting the largest network of oncologists in the United States to improve the quality of patient care and advance the science of cancer care.

Physicians affiliated with US Oncology contributed to more than four dozen studies that will be presented at the ASCO annual meeting, including the three listed below which have been chosen to be featured in the Best of ASCO:

• Abstract #CRA1004^: A phase III study (EMBRACE) of eribulin mesylate versus treatment of physician's choice in patients with locally recurrent or metastatic breast cancer previously treated with an anthracycline and a taxane. (C. Twelves et al)
• Abstract #1005: A meta-analysis of overall survival data from three randomized trials of bevacizumab (BV) and first-line chemotherapy as treatment for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). (J. O'Shaughnessy et al)
• Abstract #LBA5008: Phase III trial of induction gemcitabine or paclitaxel plus carboplatin followed by elective paclitaxel consolidation in advanced ovarian cancer: Final safety and efficacy report. (M. Teneriello et al)

At the ASCO 46th Annual Meeting, US Oncology affiliated physicians have contributed to seven studies that will were presented orally - four oral abstracts, two clinical science symposiums and one late breaking; seven poster discussions; 25 general poster discussions; four trials in progress; and two published studies. For a full list of US Oncology affiliated presentations, see the ASCO press release in the newsroom at www.usoncology.com.

In addition, Daniel D. Von Hoff, MD, FACP, received the 2010 David A. Karnofsky Memorial Award and Lecture for his outstanding achievements in cancer research and for his impact on the treatment of patients with cancer. Dr. Von Hoff is an internationally recognized physician-scientist who has contributed to the development of numerous anticancer agents, including paclitaxel, docetaxel, irinotecan and gemcitabine. He currently serves as physician-in-chief for the Translational Genomics Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, chief scientific officer at US Oncology and Scottsdale Healthcare, and clinical professor of medicine at The University of Arizona College of Medicine. Dr. Von Hoff also serves as lead physician of the Translational Oncology Program (TOP) for US Oncology. The TOP program offers Phase I clinical trial studies, which often offer first-in-human agents. He is also responsible for bringing many new compounds to US Oncology Research for studies.

John V. Cox, DO, FACP, Texas Oncology is a recipient of the ASCO Statesman Award.  This award recognizes ASCO members for their extraordinary volunteer service, dedication, and commitment to ASCO. Recipients of the 2010 Statesman Award have given 20 years of volunteer service.

"We are honored that ASCO continues to recognize the great work of the investigators in the United Network of US Oncology," says Roy Beveridge, MD, medical director for US Oncology. "Each year, dozens of community-based physicians in our affiliated network present their study findings at this prestigious annual meeting. Within every study lies the opportunity for improved care for cancer patients. At US Oncology, we are proud to be working in association with ASCO in the forefront of improved cancer care."

About US Oncology

US Oncology, Inc. is the nation's leading integrated oncology company. By uniting the largest community-based cancer treatment and research network in America, US Oncology expands patient access to high-quality care and advances the science of cancer care. Headquartered in The Woodlands, Texas, US Oncology is affiliated with more than 1,300 community-based oncologists, and works with patients, hospitals, payers, and the medical industry across all phases of the cancer research and delivery system. By promoting the use of innovative technology, clinical research, evidence-based medicine and shared best practices, US Oncology improves patient outcomes and offers a better patient experience. For more information, visit www.usoncology.com.

About US Oncology Research

US Oncology conducts clinical research through US Oncology Research, its wholly-owned subsidiary and the nation's largest community-based cancer research network. US Oncology Research has experienced investigators and dedicated research nurses who specialize in Phase I through Phase IV oncology clinical trials. US Oncology Research serves more than 80 sites in 200 locations managing more than 200 active trials at any given time. The research network has enrolled more than 42,900 patients in more than 700 trials since its inception and has contributed to the development of 40 cancer therapies approved by the FDA. For more information call (866) 216-5053 or visit www.usoncology.com/oncologists.

SOURCE US Oncology, Inc.