Community Clinical Oncology Program Introduction

Since 1986 the Community Clinical Oncology Program (CCOP) has helped to bridge the gap between the research clinical trials that occur at large institutions and the local community clinics. Operating behind the belief that everyone should have access to the latest cancer-management research the CCOP has helped more than 4,000 community physicians participate in the National Institute of Cancer (NCI) clinical trials. Additionally, 50 CCOPs have been set up in 34 U.S. states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico to provide cancer clinical trials in 403 community-based hospitals.

What is a CCOP?
In simple terms, a CCOP is formed when a group of community hospitals and physicians come together under one umbrella with the common goal of participating in NCI-sponsored cancer treatment, prevention and control clinical trials. The hospitals and physicians continually work together in a peer-reviewed environment to ensure the greatest level of clinical quality is met.

What does a CCOP do?
At first, CCOPs were created to function as a way to bring cancer-treatment clinical trials to more local communities. However, over time they have expanded to focus on cancer prevention, patient management, continuing care and rehabilitation. Some research you may already be benefiting from includes:

• Adequate treatment of pain (see Dr. Sui’s article on pain management)
• Nonhormal relief of hot flashes for patients with a history of breast cancer
• Modest success in the use of nicotine replacement therapy (patch and nasal spray), bupropion and behavioral interventions to help adults quit smoking. (see Dr. Harris’ article on quitting smoking after a cancer diagnosis)

* If you are ever interested in being involved in research studies or learning more call the Providence Regional Cancer System Research Department Directly at 360.412.8939.

Comments

[Mildred Bowen]

This post can make a cancer patient hopes for his/ her life.

: essay writing