The number of cancer survivors in the United States is growing as a result of improved early detection and better cancer treatments. There is increasing recognition that cancer survivors confront a range of significant health and psychosocial challenges after their treatment has ended, and that current policies and programs must be enhanced to improve the health and quality of life of cancer survivors.

To address these issues, ASCO hosted its annual Meet the Expert event for the media on cancer survivorship on Thursday, December 2, 2004, in New York City. Featured panelists included nationally recognized cancer experts, survivors, and advocates including special guest Geraldine Ferraro. Presenters discussed:

• Data on increasing survival rates



• Preventing long term effects of cancer treatment (for example, infertility, cognitive impairment, sexual dysfunction, premature aging)



• Reducing risk of recurrence and second cancers



• Addressing psychosocial effects (for example, depression, anxiety, impaired self-esteem; employment, financial, insurability issues)



• Recommendations for improving quality of life and long-term care of survivors

For more information, see the ASCO Press Center.