Our Cancer Community

LCRC Spearheads Cancer Prevention and Control in Louisiana Cancer experts agree that the highest impact in eliminating cancer comes from the prevention of cancer or the early detection and treatment of the disease. This is achieved through regular examination by trained personnel and through the testing of samples of blood, urine or other biologic specimens. Members of the LCRC have led the way for developing regional and statewide cancer screening programs in Louisiana.

The statewide screening programs for breast, cervical and colon cancer, led by LCRC researcher Donna Williams, M.S., M.P.H., from the School of Public Health at LSU, screened over 26,000 patients in 2008 at clinics throughout the state. Additional LCRC programs have provided screening and education on the prevention and early diagnosis of melanoma (the most aggressive form of skin cancer) to over 100 individuals and free PSA (prostate specific antigen) screening for prostate cancer to more than 170 men in New Orleans.

Furthermore, our investigators have helped re-establish screening facilities in the Medical Center of Louisiana at New Orleans (MCLNO). Through a federal grant obtained by LCRC researchers at LSU, we were able to purchase over $1 million in upgraded digital mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy equipment, as well as gastro and colonoscopes for the new screening clinics at the MCLNO, where our physicians are again evaluating patients.

Although screening efforts are important in reducing the mortality of cancer, it is far superior to prevent the onset of cancer. The Tobacco- Free Living Program is a major endeavor funded by LCRC monies. Through it, legislators, medical personnel and the public at large have been educated on the ill effects of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. This has resulted in the passage of strong legislation that will in the long run decrease the deleterious effects of smoking in our population. In addition, LCRC investigators continue to aid in efforts to develop new and better anti-smoking campaigns as well as to implement free antismoking workshops for smokers. An expanded report on this program is contained later in this report.