Fox Chase Cancer Center News

Philadelphia (August 28, 2011) – Scientists have found that individuals who carry a mutation in a gene called BAP1 are susceptible to developing two forms of cancer – mesothelioma, and melanoma of the eye.  Additionally, when these individuals are exposed to asbestos or similar mineral fibers, their risk of developing mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer of the lining of the chest and abdomen, may be markedly increased.

Philadelphia (August 16, 2011) – G. Morris Dorrance Jr., who led CoreStates Financial Corporation into one of the nation's top banking organizations, died at Bryn Mawr Hospital on August 11 following a stroke. He was 88.

Philadelphia (August 15, 2011) – Lymphoma is a cancer that affects organs of the immune system, including the lymph nodes. In a subtype of the disease called extranodal lymphoma, tumors arise in non-lymphoid organs, such as the tongue and tonsils. Patients with extranodal lymphoma of the head and neck often undergo radiation therapy, but this treatment frequently damages the salivary glands and causes dry mouth, which can lead to problems with eating, speaking and swallowing.

Philadelphia (August 11, 2011) – BreastFest, the flagship event of breast cancer research organization the Tyanna Foundation, will host its second annual Philadelphia fundraising event to benefit Fox Chase Cancer Center on Saturday, September 17 at Mad River Bar & Grille (4100 Main Street in Manayunk) from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Philadelphia (July 29, 2011) – Fox Chase Cancer Center has once again beenranked among the leading cancer centers in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Hospitals” listing.  The Center is ranked 38th overall this year and is the highest rated specialty hospital in the Philadelphia region. The rankings—which cover 16 medical specialties and 94 metro areas—have been annually published by U.S. News & World Report for the past 22 years and will also be featured in the U.S.

PHILADELPHIA (June 30, 2011) – Scientists at Fox Chase Cancer Center have discovered a new mechanism used by cells in the body to turn on silenced genes. This process is critical in preventing the development of cancer—suggesting the possibility of new therapies that might target the specific changes underlying the disease. The findings will be published online in the journal Cell on June 30, 2011.

PHILADELPHIA (June 28, 2011) — David S. Weinberg, MD, MSc, Chair of the Department of Medicine and Director of Gastroenterology at Fox Chase Cancer Center, has been appointed to the Audrey Weg Schaus and Geoffrey Alan Weg Endowed Chair in Medical Science. Fox Chase's 16 endowed chairs, each supported by generous philanthropists, allow the institution to recognize outstanding clinicians and researchers and ensure funding for promising lines of research.

PHILADELPHIA (June 28, 2011)—J. Robert Beck, MD, Senior Vice President, Chief Academic Officer, and Chief Medical Officer at Fox Chase Cancer Center, has been appointed the inaugural holder of the H.O. West and J.R. Wike Endowed Chair in Cancer Research. Fox Chase's 16 endowed chairs, each supported by generous philanthropists, allow the institution to reward outstanding clinicians and researchers and ensure funding for promising lines of research.