UFT Welfare Fund breast cancer conference

Miller Photography More than 85 UFT members and retirees had an opportunity to learn about new developments in the medical treatment of breast cancer and have their questions answered when Dr. Clifford Hudis, chief of Breast Cancer Medicine Service at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, came to UFT headquarters for a presentation on March 29. Dr. Hudis focused on the oncotype test, accepted by most insurers, which is used to individualize cancer treatment and can help doctors predict how an individual will respond to various treatment options. He also shared the latest research on the strong correlation between cancer and obesity, stressing how important it is to maintain a healthy weight. He spoke about the differences in outcomes for patients depending upon their access to care, comparing those with no coverage, those with Medicaid and others with private insurance. He said he hopes to work on ways to “improve access to care and save lives.” The UFT Health and Cancer Helpline co-sponsored the event with SHARE (Self-help for women with breast and ovarian cancer). Gianna Ruddock, program director of the Health and Cancer Helpline, reported positive feedback from attendees. top: You can’t fool yourself into thinking it’s OK to gain excess weight: Dr. Clifford Hudis nails the dangers of obesity in his presentation. above: Nancy Park of PS 234 in Manhattan asks a question. 

Miller Photography