Cancer in the headlines, November 27

November is a month for cancer awareness. This month, the following were observed (source: Dana-Farber Institute):

Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Bone Marrow Awareness Month

New guidelines: Pap smears can start at 21
New guidelines are popping up almost everyday. The Pap smears guidelines have also been rehauled. This one, however, (unlike the new mammogram guidelines) is well-accepted and has the complete support of American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The new guidelines provide for the following changes:

European Commission calls for smoke-free Europe by 2012
The European Commission has called for s Smoke Free Europe by 2012. The press release says that currently, only 10 European countries meet the criteria of having “comprehensive smoke-free laws in place.” Of these, only the UK and Ireland have a complete ban on smoking in enclosed places, including public transport and workplaces. More European countries are expected to follow their example. Among European residents, smoke-free policies are becoming popular. The results of a recent survey show:

84% support smoke-free offices and other indoor workplaces;
77% are in favor of smoke-free restaurants
61% want smoke-free bars and pubs.

World Series Game 3 Dedicated to Cancer Research
Major League Baseball opened its heart by dedicating the October 30 World Series to cancer research. Sponsor MasterCard Worldwide and Major League Baseball made donations that benefited Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), a not-for-profit organization that advocates cancer research support. MasterCard donated $1,000 to SU2C for every home run hit in the post season and $1 million if a ball hits the “Hit It Here” sign. According to Laura Ziskin, SU2C spokesperson:

“Collaboration is central to Stand Up To Cancer, whether it’s within the teams of scientists whose work we fund, in the extraordinary partnerships we have among the people and companies that make up the entertainment community, or in our remarkable relationships with MLB and other generous donors. We’re utilizing all these resources to build a movement of people excited about helping researchers who are on the cusp of major breakthroughs, but need additional funding.”