News & Events
February 3, 2010
Interview with Dr. Claudia Mallarino, who has recently returned from Haiti:
Click here to see the interview
February 2, 2010
Frank Rodriguez was recently a guest on “Viva Su Salud”, a Hispanic program whose mission is to educate the Hispanic community on various health topics. The program airs on Saturday mornings on Telemundo-43. Viva Su Salud’s host, Dr. Mabel Lopez, talked with Dr. Rodriguez in segment one about basic cancer definitions, causes (DNA mutations), and mechanisms of actions. He discussed risk factors for acquiring cancer (family history, viral exposures, repressed immune systems, toxic exposures, etc). He also briefly touched on the myriad types of factors and how they are each treated differently. Preventive factors were discussed (diet, exercise, abstaining from smoking, minimizing alcohol usage, wearing sun block, etc). Finishing up they focused on the most common types of cancer (lung, breast, colon, and skin).
Segments two and three dealt with the common cancer types and their respective presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and preventions. He discussed importance of early intervention and importance of specialized treatment.
Click here to see the interview
Please note that the interview is in Spanish
Dear All-
The Marketing Department is pleased to announce the first-ever television commercial for Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute. It is a 30 second commercial entitled "Our Heroes", which we shot last week. In addition to the production of this one commercial, we have now several hours of outstanding video footage and literally hundreds of still photos that will be archived in our photo and video resource libraries. These elements can now be leveraged for other projects - such as print materials, ads, website, and other online marketing.
Featured in this commercial are eight of our actual patients... men & women, old & young, from various ethnic backgrounds... all united in the fight against cancer. I can't tell you how inspiring these patients are - and how grateful they are to the doctors and staff at FCS. They told me over and over how much they loved their doctors... and I got lots of hugs that were ultimately meant for you!
Meeting these eight people and hearing their stories of struggle and hope literally changed my life - and I know that audiences who see our commercial will be affected by their joy and determination.
Please let your staff and patients, your families and friends, and your colleagues know that they can watch our commercial during the Olympics, which begin Friday and continue through Feb. 28. Here are the stations and programs on which the commercial will air... and thank you for all your support and for recommending such outstanding patients to participate in this project.
The commercial will air during the Olympics Opening Ceremony (tomorrow night), during the Today Show the weeks of Feb. 15 and 22, and during the late night wrap-up of the Olympics with Bob Costas for the weeks of Feb. 15 and 22 on the following stations:
TAMPA & SARASOTA AREAS - WFLA (Ch. 8)
FT. MYERS & NAPLES AREAS - WBBH (Ch. 2)
The commercial will also air on the following station:
FT. MYERS & NAPLES AREAS - WZVN (Ch. 7) - during Good Morning America and the 7PM news - weeks of Feb. 15 & 22
January 2010
View the Slideshow: Haiti Relief Effort
Florida Cancer Specialists own physician has taken part in a Humanitarian Mission to Haiti.
Dr. Mallarino and her husband Guillermo Villalona, along with several other FCS employees, Tara Alexandar MA, Beth Wittmer RN, Robin Hartke MA, Tashima Aust MA, and Sharon Litschauer ARNP, have all flown to Haiti with the help of one of our own patients Paul Erbele, who has graciously piloted his own plane.
Jennifer Johnson, the office manager at the Lakewood Ranch clinic, has worked diligently to generate supplies for their mission such as; antibiotics, gauze, bandages, casting materials, surgical supplies, and blankets, that allowed our medical professionals to provide 24 hour care to the people in Haiti the last two weekends.
Dr. Mallarino said that she will continue her missions as long as she is needed and wanted to give a big thank you to those who have helped in her efforts. She has received many donations from FCS physicians, staff, RX to GO pharmacy, and local physicians.
She is requesting that if anyone is interested in donating to help her continue her efforts in Haiti, they can contact:
Jennifer Johnson
941 907- 4737
6310 Health Park Way
Suite 200
Bradenton, FL 34202
100% of the donations will be going towards the mission in Haiti. This will help purchase more antibiotics and necessary supplies.
December 15, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists Bradenton West Office Gets Festive for the Holidays and Helps a Family in Need
This year, they decided to adopt a family for Christmas through the Manatee County Adopt-A-Family program and celebrate the holidays every Wednesday in December with a new theme for each week.
Click here to see the slideshow
November 30, 2009
Diane Cope, PhD, ARNP-BC, AOCNP comments on the future of geriatric oncology care…
Click here to read the article
November 24, 2009
Interview with Dr. Frank Rodriguez on the new CellSearch® technology available to Florida Cancer Specialists patients.
Click here to see the interview
November 24, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists Responds to New Guidelines for Mammograms
Approximately 40% of breast cancer patients treated by Florida Cancer Specialists physicians fall outside of the age recommendations outlined in the new federal guidelines.
Physicians with Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute have received many inquiries from worried and confused patients regarding the new federal guidelines that were released by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on November 16, 2009. The revised guidelines recommend that women with no family history of breast cancer wait until the age of 50 to begin regular mammogram screening every two years. The previous recommendation was that women have an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. The new guidelines also do not recommend teaching women to do breast self-examination because it has little or no value.
“For women between the ages of 40 and 50, there is not an ideal test for early detection of breast cancer,” said Dr. Christopher George, an oncologist with Florida Cancer Specialists in Tampa. “For women who have no history and have normal breast exams, mammograms typically are not needed, but it should be an individual decision between patient and doctor. Women who have a family history still need to be seen annually.”
As for self exams, Dr. George does not agree with the task force.
"To tell women not to be paying attention to what's going on in their breasts I think is a wrong message," George said. "Because I think women do frequently find abnormalities that lead to early diagnosis.”
Florida Cancer Specialists President Dr. William Harwin concurs. “Florida Cancer Specialists will continue to support and recommend that patients follow guidelines for the early detection of breast cancer established by the American Cancer Society. As the largest privately-owned oncology practice in the United States, Florida Cancer Specialists recognizes that a significant number of patients are benefiting from the early detection and treatment of breast cancer.”
Physicians at Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute have seen 14,361 breast cancer patients so far in 2009. Of those, 1,365 were born after January 1, 1960. This means that approximately 9.5% of all Florida Cancer Specialists breast cancer patients treated this year are under the age of 50.
Additionally, Florida Cancer Specialists physicians treated 203 patients who turned 50 years old in 2009. Adding these women to the overall total increases the percentage of breast cancer patients under 50 years old to 10.9%
By the end of 2009, Florida Cancer Specialists will treat approximately 15,000 breast cancer patients. Roughly 10% - or 1,500 patients - will be under the age of 50.
The new guidelines also state that current evidence is insufficient to assess the additional benefits and harms of screening mammography in women 75 years or older.
Approximately 30% of breast cancer patients treated by Florida Cancer Specialists’ physicians are over 75 years of age. By the end of the year, Florida Cancer Specialists expects to see about 4,500 patients in this age group.
About Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute:
Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute is the largest privately-owned Oncology/Hematology practice in the United States. The Florida Cancer Specialists’ network of 71 physicians and 33 ARNP/PA’s specialize in the treatment of malignancies and diseases of the blood. With 27 practice locations, Florida Cancer Specialists serves patients on the Gulf Coast from Tampa to Naples. As a strategic site for Sarah Cannon Research Institute, Florida Cancer Specialists is committed to being involved in the latest clinical trial research in order to find new and better treatments for patients. Because of the extensive network of treatment centers, Florida Cancer Specialists provides the opportunity for patients throughout the West Coast of Florida to participate in world class medical care close to home.
November 23, 2009
Breast Test Guidelines Stir Debate
Rationing or reasonable? Fear or fact?
For Lehigh Acres resident Ouida Francis, new breast cancer screening guidelines from a federal task force that suggest most women younger than 50 don't need routine mammograms are more about life and death.
"I don't think I would have lived long enough to see 50 if I didn't have that early mammogram," said Francis, 38, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 32.
Fort Myers hematologist and oncologist Dr. William Harwin called the new guidelines "foolhardy," and worries that some women will just stop getting mammograms altogether.
The traditional rule has been yearly mammograms for women 40 and older; the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on Monday recommended the first mammogram at 50, and then every other year through age 74.
"Patients are confused. We're confused, too," echoed Dr. Richard Roetzheim, medical director of the Lifetime Cancer Screening Prevention Center at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, where many Southwest Floridians go for consultations.
"Physicians are trying to wrestle with this so they're able to best counsel their patients," he said. "It makes it more difficult to give a solid, consistent message about prevention."
Why the change?
The task force's mammogram recommendations are not the first to start a debate. Last year, the same group updated its guidelines on prostate cancer by not endorsing universal screenings and recommending against them for men older than 75. And on Friday, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued guidelines saying that most women in their 20s can have a Pap smear, which is used to detect cervical cancer, every two years instead of annually.
But people with positive diagnoses and their doctors tend to look askance at such changes.
On Wednesday, Harwin delivered a breast cancer diagnosis to a 49-year-old woman after reviewing her mammogram.
"According to these new guidelines, she wouldn't have gotten a mammogram for another year," Harwin said. "It's hard to imagine that it's not in her benefit to detect it now as opposed to waiting."
Most sources said screening guidelines aren't likely to change, despite the task force's conclusions.
Roetzheim said the Moffitt Center uses recommendations from the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology, both of which immediately issued statements refuting the panel's recommendations, along with a pledge that their own guidelines had not changed.
So what's behind the panel's guidelines? Is the task force decision about saving money?
Harwin, among others, says yes. He believes the decision was based on statistics and a cost-benefit analysis of mammogram use and survival rates.
"It may make sense from a statistical and monetary point of view, but patients don't care about statistics," he said.
Except, perhaps, the one every woman older than 18 likely has heard: That a woman's lifetime risk of breast cancer is 1 in 8.
And aside from being a woman, age is the greatest risk factor. The median age at diagnosis is 61, according to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Fast rebuttal
Roetzheim, for one, doesn't place much stock in accusations of cost-cutting by the government panel.
"They looked at the complications of having all these women screened," he said, meaning the fear, anxiety and unnecessary additional tests for false positive screenings, which are much more common in the 40-49 age group. There's also debate over whether early detection prolongs life in certain forms of the cancer.
In a statement, the American College of Radiology accused the task force of "rationing" health care and making "unconscionable decisions about the value of human life ... deciding that the cost of saving women ages 40-49 is too high."
The American Cancer Society wasted no time in issuing its own rebuttal, centering on the claim that with the onset of mammography screening, "the death rate from advanced breast cancer, that had been unchanged for the preceding 50 years, has decreased by 30 percent since 1990."
Still, how much and when to be screened remain a woman's decision, even by the recent guidelines, Roetzheim said.
Some cancer advocacy groups welcomed the task force's recommendations as an acknowledgment of the imperfections of screenings and a starting point for more nuanced research into cancer prevention and treatments.
The National Breast Cancer Coalition said in a statement that "mammography screening has significant limitations and should be a personal choice rather than a public health message."
Plan coverage
The task force's recommendations have no direct effect on Medicare coverage of mammograms. That's because Medicare is required by law to cover one screening for women ages 35 to 39, and yearly mammograms after that.
Medicare's mammogram coverage can be changed in one of two ways: Congress could pass a law, or the secretary of Health and Human Services could change coverage, after consulting the head of the National Cancer Institute.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sibelius said this week that "the task force does not set federal policy and they don't determine what services are covered by the federal government."
Private insurers tend to follow Medicare's lead. According to a report by USA Today, insurance companies have no plans to change their coverage, said Susan Pisano, a spokeswoman for America's Health Insurance Plans, which represents 1,300 companies covering 200 million Americans.
Between October 2008 and September, Lee Memorial Health System conducted 2,655 mammograms, both screening and diagnostic; Gulf Coast Medical Center, also part of Lee Memorial, did 413. The cost of each ranges from $91 when self-paid to $161-$194 for the insured.
At Radiology Regional Center in Fort Myers, 21 percent of the new cancer findings last year were in women 40 to 49, said director Dr. Mary Kay Peterson.
Since Radiology Regional stands to make more money on mammography under the old guidelines over the new ones, is this driving Peterson to speak out?
"To those who say I want to make more money on this all, hold the women I hold in my arms and I feel their tears as they look at me and say, 'When is this going to stop?' Come in and do this day to day and tell me I do this for money," Peterson said.
"It's emotionally draining, it's challenging, it's scary medicine."
Good publicity
But there is an up side.
"The good thing about what's happening in the past few days is that there's a lot of attention given to this subject. People are standing up and giving their opinions," said Miriam Ross, executive director of the local breast cancer advocacy group the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
The foundation stands by its current screening guidelines, Ross said, of annual screening mammograms from age 40 on.
"Mammography isn't perfect, but it's the best tool we have," she said. "And our best defense is early detection. All the research says that."
Local women who have had breast cancer need no convincing.
Lisa Dodd of Lehigh Acres received a diagnosis of breast cancer in January. She considers ludicrous another of the task force's recommendations: That women need not be taught how to do breast self-examination.
That's how she found a lump in her breast at age 45.
"I have since had a lumpectomy, six rounds of chemotherapy, and 33 radiation treatments." she said. "I am now cancer-free. Had I not been doing my self-examination and not found the lump, I may still not know that it existed if we were to use the new suggested guidelines for mammograms. If I had waited for a mammogram and had not done a self examination, I may not be here when I reach 50 years of age."
"I'm sure that my husband, son, and family would all disagree with those new findings as well."
Originally Published by By Dayna Harpster and Frank Gluck
Click here to see the original article.
November 18, 2009
New cancer guidelines confuse, dismay
It has become a controversial issue: at what age should women get mammograms? A government task force is going against what women have been taught for years.
Normally, the baseline screening starts at age 40 and is done every year. The task force of doctors and scientists now recommends most women don't need to start until the age of 50 and only every other year.
They also say self breast exams do no good.
Rhonda Nelson, a Tampa mother of three, said she's proof self exams do work.
She felt a lump in her left breast, over the summer. Within weeks, she had a mastectomy and started chemotherapy.
She is disappointed with the new recommendations.
"It's amazing to me that something this radical would come out, without having a clearer message behind it. That maybe breast self examination isn't the best method to detect breast cancer, but it is what we have," she said.
Nelson is just 36 years old and has no family history of breast cancer. She said, with tears in her eyes, it was hard to hear the diagnosis
"I knew before I walked in the room, that it was breast cancer. I just knew," she recalled.
Dr. Christopher George, an oncologist with Florida Cancer Specialists in Tampa, said the reality is, for women between the ages of 40 and 50, there is not an ideal test for the general population.
For those who have a family history, they still need to be seen annually.
But Dr. George said with those who have no history and have normal breast exams, mammograms typically are not needed. But he continued to say, it should be an individual decision between patient and doctor.
As for self exams, Dr. George does not agree with the task force.
"To tell women not to be paying attention to what's going on in their breasts I think is a wrong message," George said. "Because I think women do frequently find abnormalities that leads to early diagnosis."
Rhonda said when she found her cancer, it was already Stage three. She wonders what would have happened if she would have dismissed the lump. Or if others wait until they are 50 to get tested.
"If I had to wait until 50 for my first mammogram and was told, 'don't bother doing self breast exams,' I wouldn't have made it to 50 to get a breast exam"
She believes every life that can be saved is worth it.
Originally Published by
Tanya Arja, FOX 13 News reporter.
Click here to see the original article.
November 6, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute Names New CEO
Florida’s largest privately-owned Oncology/Hematology practice plans for continued growth and expansion of the scope of its patient services and treatments.
Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute has named Bradley Prechtl as its new Chief Executive Officer. Prechtl brings a wealth of health care leadership experience to his position, having most recently served as Chief Operating Officer for Physician Oncology Services, Inc., one of the most successful prostate cancer treatment networks in Georgia and Indiana.
“We are very fortunate to welcome Brad to FCS,” said Dr. Bill Harwin, FCS President. “Given his extensive background in healthcare management, particularly in Oncology, Brad will have a vital role in the future growth of Florida Cancer Specialists and Research Institute and in our ability to better serve our patients.”
Prechtl graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and obtained his license as a Certified Public Accountant in 1991. He then earned his M.B.A. from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to joining Physician Oncology Services in 2008, he served as President of Crozer Keystone Health Network from 2006 to 2008, and before that as Executive Director of Practice Operations for Texas Oncology of US Oncology, the nation’s largest physician practice management company devoted exclusively to cancer treatment and research. In his seven years at Texas Oncology, Prechtl increased growth in net patient revenues by 83 percent to $292 million annually and improved profitability by 110 percent.
“It is exciting to be part of the strategic expansion here at FCS,” said Prechtl. “Not only is it the largest privately-owned Oncology/ Hematology practice in Florida, it is also one of the few practices world-wide that has fully-functioning Electronic Medical Record access integrated across different specialties and between outpatient and inpatient care.”
“We are also fortunate to be a strategic site for Sarah Cannon Research Institute,” Prechtl added. “SCRI is one of our nation's most highly regarded research institutions pursuing critical treatments for the world's most vexing diseases. Because of our participation in clinical trials, and with our access to the most recent clinical research data, our patients receive the highest quality of care and the most technologically-advanced methods of treatment in each one of our 27 locations.”
October 29, 2009
Carve for the Cure is a benefit that Dr. Harwin and Dr. Rodriguez were involved in this October. The proceeds go to breast cancer education, research and treatment. Along with food, wine and entertainment there is a pumpkin auction. Faux pumpkins (Styrofoam) are delivered to local physicians and surgeons who carve, paint, and decorate them to be auctioned off. This year there were all female chefs preparing menu items for their individual tasting stations. The proceeds from the event are donated to the SWFL Affiliate of the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Almost $5,000 dollars was raised this year.
Thank you Dr. Harwin, Dr. Rodriguez, and all the Lee County Physicians for your support!
October 27, 2009
Interview with Dr. Claudia Mallarino, FCS Oncologist:
Click here to see the interview
October 22, 2009
Interview with Dr. Claudia Mallarino, FCS Oncologist:
Click here to see the interview
October 18, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists, a proud sponsor of Tampa Bay Buccaneers Radio, took part in the effort of the NFL and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to bring awareness to Breast Cancer.
Florida Cancer Specialists had its mobile PET/CT diagnostic imaging trailer on the stadium grounds as well as a team of volunteers that were giving out pink bandannas, bracelets, self breast exam cards, and pins to the fans as they entered on game day.
There were over 20 breast cancer survivors (10 of whom were from Florida Cancer Specialists) who lead the team out of the tunnel to start the game. A special tribute was given to one of our very own, Dr. Rand Altemose, for his personal experience with breast cancer in his own family, as well as the many years he has been treating the women of Tampa that have fought the disease. Dr. Altemose was the honorary participant who tossed the coin to kickoff the game.
Florida Cancer Specialists is committed to bringing awareness to the community and aiding in the fight to finding the cure for breast cancer.
Click here to see the slideshow
October 18, 2009
Dr. Scott Lunin of Florida Cancer Specialists has given an interview to the Charlotte Sun. He comments on how the new CellSearch® test helps evaluate cancer treatment effectiveness.
Click here to read the interview
October 13, 2009
Dr. Whorf of Florida Cancer Specialists has given an interview on Channel 7's HealthSmart segment, discussing a "secrect weapon" against breast cancer: Clinical Trials.
Click here to see the interview
October 8, 2009
Obesity contributes to cancer risks, doctors say
Most women who want to lose weight just want to fit into a smaller dress or pair of jeans. But not Linda Ann Spurza of Lutz. She lost weight so she could live longer.
The mother of two young children was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer in October 2006. She found the lump herself, two weeks after a routine mammogram came back negative. Further testing revealed cancer was also in her sternum and spine.
Spurza had surgery and started several medications to keep the cancer quiet. A side effect was weight gain, something this trim, active 45-year-old had never battled before.
"The medicine put me into menopause at age 42," Spurza said. "As soon as I went into menopause, the weight started to come on, especially in the tummy."
Weight gain, particularly in the abdomen, is dangerous for breast cancer patients because it puts them at high risk for a recurrence. Spurza's doctor told her losing just 10 pounds would be almost as powerful as medication in reducing her risk of a recurrence. Spurza changed her diet, made physical activity a priority and lost 15 pounds.
"I will do anything," she said, "hang upside down from a tree, whatever, to get more time with my kids."
Being overweight has long been known to increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke, but more recently it has been linked to cancers of the uterus, colon, kidney, esophagus and breast (in postmenopausal women). There's also evidence that obesity may increase the risk for cancers of the gallbladder, pancreas, thyroid and ovaries.
Federal health officials estimate that 64 percent of adults, well more than 100 million Americans, are overweight or obese. According to the National Cancer Institute, 41,000 new cases of cancer annually may be related to obesity.
Scientists aren't sure why the two are linked, but they think being overweight elevates certain hormone levels in the body, which triggers an inflammatory process and promotes the growth of abnormal cells.
"We don't fully understand the mechanism by which obesity affects cancer risk yet,'' said Dr. Nagi Kumar, director of nutrition research at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa. "There are many theories."
One thing is certain, Kumar said: The more body fat you have, the higher your risk for cancer.
"Talk to 98 percent of our patients in their 50s and 60s and they will tell you that they weigh at least 30 pounds more than they did in their 20s,'' she said
The weight factor is especially true for women and the risk of breast cancer.
"Gaining more than 10 pounds in the postmenopausal years puts you at higher risk; the more weight you gain, the higher that risk. That is one of the known causes of breast cancer," said Dr. Susan Minton, a breast cancer oncologist at Moffitt. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 11,000 to 18,000 breast cancer deaths per year in the United States might be prevented if women older than 50 maintained a normal body weight, a BMI below 25. That's why cancer specialists are particularly concerned about the obesity epidemic.
Dr. Shaila Raj, a Morton Plant Mease oncologist, said she doesn't wait long to discuss it with patients. After surgery, radiation and medical treatment, the next thing she addresses is weight management, diet and exercise.
"I make it a point to discuss prevention. I tell them having extra weight on is a risk factor for several cancers." she said.
Spurza took her post-cancer weight gain very seriously. She joined a group at Moffitt called RENEW 180: Recovery with Exercise, Nutrition, Education and Weight Management. Experts lead group and individual lessons on how to adopt a healthy lifestyle that will help participants beat cancer.
Now, her children ride their bikes while she tries to keep up on foot, three or four days a week. She works out with elastic bands for strength training the rest of the week. And though her diet is different now, she hasn't given up her favorite almond pastries or glasses of wine; she just doesn't have them every day.
She has two very important reasons to do everything in her power to prevent a recurrence of breast cancer: a 9-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter.
"I live for my kids."
October 1, 2009
Veridex, LLC announced today that the CellSearch® Circulating Tumor Cell (CTC) Test was honored with the first-ever Prix Galien USA 2009 Award for Best Medical Technology.
The CellSearch® System is the first diagnostic test used to automate the capture and detection of CTCs, tumor cells that have detached from solid tumors and entered the patient’s blood. The CellSearch® System assesses CTCs to determine the prognosis and overall survival of patients with metastatic breast, colorectal or prostate cancer at any time during the course of treatment.
“The CellSearch® System represents an important shift in the management of metastatic breast, colorectal or prostate cancer as an adjunct to standard testing methods that provides a more complete picture of patient prognosis,” said Michael Samoszuk, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics. “The Prix Galien recognition further supports the important role CellSearch® technology plays in providing oncologists with an additional tool to help them provide optimum care for their patients.”
Prix Galien USA Award candidates are evaluated on the basis of the innovative nature of the development and applicability of the technology and whether the discovery can be applied to future biomedical science. The Prix Galien USA Awards committee – which includes seven Nobel Laureates – recognizes the technical, scientific and clinical research skills essential for developing innovative medicines and technologies that make
positive contributions to human health. The Prix Galien USA Award is considered the industry’s highest accolade for research and development.
About CellSearch® Technology
The CellSearch® CTC Test works by using antibodies that are joined to microscopic iron particles, called ferrofluid. These antibody/ferrofluid combinations attach very specifically to CTCs. Powerful magnets then draw the CTCs out of the blood sample and they are then stained with additional bio-molecules and chemicals so that they can be positively identified as CTCs.
CellSearch® results should be used in conjunction with all clinical information derived from diagnostic tests (e.g., imaging, laboratory tests), physical examination and complete medical history in accordance with appropriate patient management procedures. The CellSearch® test has not been approved to demonstrate that any line of therapy is any more/less effective than any other or no therapy. CellSearch® results and imaging results are not equivalent in assessing the transition of patients between non-progressive disease and progressive disease.
September 29, 2009
Frank Rodriguez, M.D. of Florida Cancer Specialists has received the Physician of the Month Award at Lee Memorial Hospital
for September 2009. Dr. Rodriguez was chosen through nominations from employees,
volunteers and other physicians on staff, based on criteria such as consistent
quality, attitude, professionalism, compassion and going "above and beyond" what
is reasonably expected.
Lee Memorial writes "We salute Dr. Rodriguez for
exemplifying the qualities of an excellent physician and we are privileged to
have had Dr. Rodriguez as a respected member of our medical staff since August
2008."
September 25, 2009
We are proud to announce that Scott A. Tetreault, M.D. of Florida Cancer Specialists has received the Stephen H. Goldman, M.D. Keystone Award.
Each year, one medical professional and one lay person or organization are honored with the prestigious Stephen H. Goldman, M.D., Keystone Award. This year, the individual who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, compassion and dedication to fighting cancer and raising awareness as did the late Dr. Stephen H. Goldman,
is Dr. Tetreault.
Upon his completion of medical training at Wake Forest University, the University of Miami School of Medicine and the University of Florida, Dr. Tetreault completed his fellowship in Oncology at Scripps Clinic and Research Foundation. He has dedicated more than ten years practicing medical oncology in the Sarasota community, and has remained active at both the state and national levels for appropriate coverage of cancer drugs and services. Tetreault also serves as the chairman of the Cancer Committee at Doctor’s Hospital, where he coordinates cancer awareness and resources for the Sarasota community. He has also been recognized as “Physician of the Year” at Doctor’s Hospital.
September 24, 2009
Dr. Raj of Florida Cancer Specialists shares her perspective in a recent article in the St. Petersburg Times entitled "Rumors of tumors: Putting some recent cancer scares in perspective".
You can read the article by
clicking on this link...
September 17, 2009
Doctor’s Life sat down with Bill Harwin, President of Florida Cancer Specialists, to talk about this organization’s spectacular growth.
The article is entitled "Physician As Executive".
Click Here to Download the Doctor's Life article
September 9, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists is now using the new CellSearch® test.
Local Channel 2 reports: "A blood test some doctors describe as a 'breakthrough' for cancer patients has arrived in Southwest Florida. It's called Cell Search and it's helping doctors see cancer cells in a way they never have before."
Click Here to read the full report at Channel 2...
August 14, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists: Official Sponsor of Pitch for Pink.
In an event to benefit the Morton Plant Mease Breast Cancer programs, the Clearwater Threshers changed their official red and blue team colors, to pink for one exciting night as they took on the Tampa Yankees during Pitch for Pink.
On August 14th, Bright House Field, home of the Clearwater Threshers and the spring training camp for the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies, transformed into a field of pink. Players wear custom pink jerseys during the game. The jerseys were autographed and auctioned off after the game along with the pink baseball bats used in the game.
The first 1,000 women in the ballpark received a commemorative pink Threshers tote bag. Many local businesses have donated more than 100 items for silent auction and balloon raffles. Some of the items include hotel/resort packages, furniture, bikes, Oakley sunglasses, spa packages, tickets to local attractions, and gift certificates to local restaurants and shops.
"Pitch for Pink is a great community event that helps to support groups for breast cancer survivors and free mammograms for women without health insurance or the means to pay for a screening mammogram," said Peter Blumencranz, MD, medical director of the Morton Plant Mease breast health program. "Without this type of community support, we would not be able to help as many women and their families."
A highlight of the event took place during the pre-game when breast cancer survivors
were invited to make the lap around the bases, supported along the way by the team and fans through cheers and many happy tears. Past participants call it a "reunion of survivors."
"Our community has been very supportive of the Threshers. We wanted to find a way to give back to our fans. It made sense to support the breast cancer programs at Morton Plant Mease because so many people have been touched by this disease," said John Timberlake, director of Florida Operations for the Clearwater Threshers.
A All money raised during the event will be donated to the Morton Plant Mease Foundation to benefit the hospital system's many breast cancer programs.
2009 Breast Cancer Statistics:
According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 192,370 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed among American women this year. It is the second leading cause of cancer death in women. 40,610 women are expected to die in the United States this year of breast cancer. However, the numbers have been declining for the past 20 years. The decrease is believed to the result of early detection, increased awareness and improved treatment. Approximately 2.5 million Americans are breast cancer survivors.
August 14, 2009
This is the second year Bill Harwin has competed in the Pan Mass Challenge. He started this in memory of his late wife Marilyn, who passed away of breast cancer in late 2006. This year he raised over $20,000 and biked the longest route of 107.2 miles the first day, taking 6 hours 22 minutes, for an average speed of 17.3 mph, and on the second day, 76.2 miles, taking 4 hours and 25 minutes, for an average speed of 17.1 mph.
The funds raised will support clinical and translational research in breast and gynecologic cancers. This is precisely the work that will lead to longer and better lives for women (and a few men) with breast cancer and women with gynecologic cancers.
Good Job, Dr Harwin
To learn more about the Pan Mass Challenge, you can read the New York Times Article by
clicking on this link.
August 5, 2009
ABC Action News: New Cancer Blood Test
As a result of the team’s outreach, WFTS-TV “ABC Action News” program in Tampa, FL, ran a story on Monday, August 3rd about the availability of the Veridex CellSearch® test at Florida Cancer Specialists. In addition to the broadcast segment, an accompanying written article was posted on the station’s website along with the segment, viewable online.
The article reported on Shannon Paver, a patient diagnosed with breast cancer who receives treatment with Herceptin at Florida Cancer Specialists. It noted that Paver’s physician, Julio Lautersztain, will begin using the CellSearch® test. Dr. Lautersztain said the test allows doctors “to monitor the patients’ treatment in as much as if we start with a certain number and the number goes down, it means were going in the right direction."
Please note that although the article did not refer to the CellSearch® test specifically by name, a cancer patient who saw the segment posted a comment on the station’s website that provided the name as well as their positive experience:
“This test is called Cell Search and can be done at any oncologist office. If you are a cancer patient -- ask about it! It's a great tool for the Dr. and for the patient. It can provide such a sense of relief to know on a monthly basis that the treatment you are receiving is working. Or, it can ensure that you don't continue on a chemo that is not helping you. Most patients have to wait for PET/CT scans that are only done every 3-4 months which feels like an eternity! This test is FDA approved and insurance and Medicare is covering it! Ask your Dr. !! And tell your family and friends who are fighting this horrible disease!”
August 3, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists will be hosting the Prevent Cancer Foundation's inflatable, interactive Super Colon™ exhibit on Saturday, August 15, 2009.
Take a walk through the 8-foot tall, 20-foot long Prevent Cancer Super Colon™ exhibit to learn why colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable!
Click Here to Download the Official Flyer
July 23, 2009
In an effort to be more inclusive of community practices, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Clinical Research Committee (CRC) has decided to appoint a community physician as a liaison to the CRC. Florida Cancer Specialists is honored to announce the appointment of Marcos Joppert, MD to the esteemed position of liaison to the ASCO Clinical Research Committee, which is ASCO’s public policy instrument for clinical research. This honor demonstrates the national recognition of Florida Cancer Specialists as one of the most active clinical research platforms in the community. Dr. Joppert will focus on how he can make his participation in the CRC as effective as possible for research in the community during the year ahead. Congratulations, Dr. Joppert!
June 25, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists doctors were invited recently to have a lunch in the locker room at Raymond James Stadium at the Tampa Buccaneers Fan Fest.
You can view some pictures of our doctors meeting with the Tampa Buccaneers head coach and GM by
clicking on this link.
June 8, 2009
The Naples Daily News has reported FCS's use of the new CellSearch® System to measure circulating tumor cells (CTCs). You can read the article describing one patient's experience with using the new system by
clicking on this link.
May 29, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists has been honored by Gulfshore Life Magazine in
The Gulfshore's Top Doctors 2009 for Medical Oncology. You can read more about the best doctors for your needs by
clicking on this link.
May 7, 2009
CELLSEARCH® SYSTEM to be offered at Florida Cancer Specialists
Veridex, LLC announced today that the CellSearch® System to measure circulating tumor cells (CTCs) will be offered at Florida Cancer Specialists (FCS), the largest privately-owned oncology and hematology practice in Florida. Veridex’s CellSearch® test is used to predict survival in patients with metastatic breast, colorectal or prostate cancers. CellSearch®
technology was ranked as the top medical innovation for 2009 by the Cleveland Clinic, a leading multispecialty academic medical center.
Read the official press realease about this exciting development:
Official Veridex Press Release (Adobe Acrobat Reader Required)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2009
VERIDEX MEDIA CONTACT:
Stephanie Fagan (908) 704-3691
VERIDEX INVESTOR CONTACTS:
Louise Mehrotra (732) 524-6491
Stan Panasewicz (732) 524-2524
CELLSEARCH® SYSTEM TO BE OFFERED AT FLORIDA CANCER SPECIALISTS
Proprietary Veridex Technology is the First Cancer Diagnostic Test to Automate and
Capture Circulating Tumor Cells
RARITAN, N.J., (May 7, 2009) – Veridex, LLC announced today that the CellSearch® System to
measure circulating tumor cells (CTCs) will be offered at Florida Cancer Specialists (FCS), the
largest privately-owned oncology and hematology practice in Florida. Veridex’s CellSearch®
test is used to predict survival in patients with metastatic breast, colorectal or prostate cancers.
CellSearch® technology was ranked as the top medical innovation for 2009 by the Cleveland
Clinic, a leading multispecialty academic medical center.
“By offering CellSearch® throughout our practice, Florida Cancer Specialists is fundamentally
changing the way we approach cancer care as we will use CTCs to assess the prognosis of our
patients,” said Dr. William Harwin, Managing Partner, Florida Cancer Specialists. The
CellSearch® System is expected to be operational at FCS by the end of May.
Through a simple blood test, the CellSearch® System is the first diagnostic to automate the
capture and detection of tumor cells that have detached from solid tumors and entered the
patient’s blood. With the CellSearch® System, it is possible to reproducibly find a single CTC
among approximately 40 billion blood cells in a 7.5 mL blood sample. The test can be used at
any time during the course of disease for serial monitoring of patients with metastatic breast,
colorectal or prostate cancers.
“The ability to identify a single cancer cell through our CellSearch® technology provides
physicians with an important measure of a patient’s disease prognosis to help them make more
informed patient care decisions,” said Ken Berlin, General Manager, Veridex. “We look forward
to our partnership with FCS.”
Florida Cancer Specialists is the largest privately-owned oncology and hematology practice in
Florida. Florida Cancer Specialists’ 69 physicians specialize in the treatment of malignancies
and diseases of the blood. FCS has 28 locations and serves patients on the Gulf Coast from
Clearwater to Naples.
About CellSearch®
The CellSearch® test works by using antibodies that are joined to microscopic iron particles,
called ferrofluid. These antibody/ferrofluid combinations attach very specifically to CTCs.
Powerful magnets then draw the CTCs out of the blood sample and they are then stained with
additional bio-molecules and chemicals so that they can be positively identified as CTCs.
CellSearch® test results should be used in conjunction with all clinical information derived from
diagnostic tests (e.g., imaging, laboratory tests), physical examination and complete medical
history in accordance with appropriate patient management procedures. For further information
on intended use, warnings and limitations, please refer to the CellSearch® CTC Test
Instructions for Use, or visit www.veridex.com.
About Veridex, LLC
Veridex, LLC, a Johnson & Johnson company, is an organization dedicated to providing
physicians with high-value in vitro diagnostic oncology products. Veridex's products may
significantly benefit patients through earlier disease detection and may enable personalized
strategies to help improve patient management and outcomes. For more information, visit
www.veridex.com.
# # #
May 5, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists often receives heartfelt thanks for the services our
teams provide. Here is a great example of one of our patients who has recently
expressed his satisfaction:
Dear Dr. Harwin,
I just wanted to say thank you for the wonderful trip that your staff arranged for me and my children. They worked with Memories of Love Foundation and we were sponsored for a 6 day 5 night all expenses paid trip to Disney. It meant so much to all of us. Between battling cancer, divorce, pain, and financial issues this was a very welcome experience. We will treasure those memories forever. I am enclosing a few pictures for you to enjoy.
Dr. Harwin you and your staff do so much to make life better during the most difficult of time. I appreciate having you as my doctor and consider you a good friend. Thank you and please thank Angela and Marcie for their special efforts for me and my family.
I seem to be pulling through this again. I pray this time forever. 2 more treatments to go!!! God willing I will stay in remission with the help of the Nexavar.
Stay safe and happy,
Kyle
View the Pictures
May 4, 2009
The Bradenton Herald has featured Florida Cancer Specialists own Scott Tetreault, MD. The article provides a glimpse of what the battle against cancer looks like from the trenches. You can read the article by
clicking on this link...
April 22, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists is pleased to announce our newest office in
Naples! The
Naples West office is the latest addition to our expanding coverage of Florida.
April 20, 2009
Rebecca Kosloff, MD was kind enough to give an interview on the Fox 4 Morning Blend news show to educate the public on behalf of the American Cancer Society. You can view the interview by
clicking on this link...
March 29, 2009
Scott Tetreault (FCS, Sarasota) hosted a meeting with Senator Arlen Specter (R.-Pa.) and Florida Cancer Specialists physicians to discuss community oncology issues. Senator Specter, a cancer survivor, has been a champion for obtaining funds for cancer research and continues to be an advocate for cancer patients on Capitol Hill. Pictured are Dr Steve Orman (FCS, Venice), Senator Specter, and Dr. William Harwin (Managing Partner, FCS, Ft. Myers).
March 23, 2009
Read about "neighbor of the week" Carrie Helliesen, long term patient of William Harwin MD, President of Florida Cancer Specialists. Carrie is a remarkable individual who currently serves as the Executive Director of the American Cancer Society Florida Keys Unit in Key West, and has been in her position for the past 14 years.
Read more here...
March 23, 2009
Caryn Silver, M.D. was recently honored by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure at a recent luncheon at the Sarasota, Ritz Carlton. Dr. Silver, a physician at our Sarasota Downtown office, was honored for her outstanding effort in helping to achieve a vision of a world without breast cancer. Established over 25 years ago Susan G. Komen for the Cure, has evolved into the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Komen Affiliates serve the breast health needs of millions in their communities; developed educational tools to reach people in more than 200 countries; and became the world’s largest source of private funds for breast cancer research and community outreach programs with more than $1.2 billion invested to date. The physicians of Florida Cancer Specialists congratulate Dr. Silver on her recognition by the prestigious organization.
March 14, 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure© on Saturday, March 14.
FCS was the top fundraising team with $32,060 in donations! You can read more about race day by
clicking on this link.
FCS founder and President, Dr. William Harwin writes:
"It was a beautiful day and I finished the 5K in 22:48 slower than last year but 4th in my age group and 96th overall. I did finish ahead of my two sons Danny and Pete. I also had a live interview with the local NBC affiliate and will try to send that on when I have found it on the web.
I can't thank enough all the people that contributed to our cause and ran with us including friends and family and so many from the FCS family that did so much in manning our booth and contributing their time. The new FCS logo was every where as we all wore FCS hats and FCS was a sponsor aside from my personal and our FCS team fundraising.
As you know I will be back doing this again next year.
Thanks to all once again.
Bill Harwin"
February 2009
Flcancer.com now provides free access to a Text Relay service for people with
hearing loss or a speech disability. This feature is offered to make
our site easy to use and our physicians and services as accessible as possible.
Text Relay is a free, government regulated service designed to make it easy for people with hearing loss or speech disabilities to place phone calls.
When you start your call, you'll connect to an operator. The operator will dial the number you entered, and start the call. You will type what you'd like to say, and the person you're calling will hear the operator speak what you type.
When the person you're calling speaks, you will be able to read what they say because the operator will type it out verbatim.
Note: When you make your call, a call window will pop up. If you have a pop-up blocker turned on, you will need to turn it off to see this call window.
January 2009
Florida Cancer Specialists is celebrating the new year with continued growth. We are pleased to announce two new offices in Tampa! The Habana and Armenia offices are the latest additions to our expanding coverage of Florida.