Physical Activity Improves Health Outcomes for Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancers

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Regular Physical Activity Improves Health Outcomes for Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancers

New York, NY – January 24, 2022 – It is estimated that nearly 8 percent of the more than 500,000 childhood cancer survivors in the U.S. show signs of “old age” at much earlier ages than their counterparts who did not have cancer. However, a new paper titled Physical activity and fitness in childhood cancer survivors: A scoping review published in the December issue of Aging AND Cancer, shows that childhood cancer survivors who participate in regular physical activity have improved markers of cardiovascular health, decreased risk of overt cardiovascular disease, increased neurocognition, and an overall decreased risk of all-cause mortality compared to childhood cancer survivors who are not physically active.

“While advancements in treating cancer have greatly improved, most therapeutics can have negative impacts on the human body,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, CEO and Founder of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. “This study is important for two reasons. First, it demonstrates that maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle can help combat the long-term consequences from some cancer treatments, and secondly, that we must prioritize research to develop new medications that are effective and also less toxic.”

Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley Publishing produced in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. The most recent issue includes three additional papers:

About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF):

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.

 About Aging AND Cancer:

Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley focused on understanding how the process of aging is a central component of cancer evolution and progression. The journal covers basic, translational and clinical findings that are of broad interest, investigating the mechanisms via which age-associated deterioration of the individual, from macromolecules to tissues and organs, promote the onset, progression and relapse of cancer, and impact treatment options and outcomes. This journal provides a forum for new results and ideas that improve our understanding for how old age influences many different facets of cancer, from incidence to its development and pathology to treatment outcomes to psycho-social aspects of living with cancer. The journal is published in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. For more information, visit https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/26438909.

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Media Contact:

Wylie Tene

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Director of Marketing and Communications

212-867-4502

[email protected]

Collaborating for A Cure Gala Returns, Celebrates Groundbreaking Scientific Breakthrough

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SWCRF Collaborating for A Cure Gala Returns, Celebrates Groundbreaking Scientific Breakthrough

 24th Annual Event Raises More Than $4 Million for Cancer Research

New York, NY – November 22, 2021 - The 24th Annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala, returned to a live, in-person event to celebrate breakthrough research in the fight against cancer. More than 700 people attended the aptly themed Together Again event, raising more than $4 million toward furthering collaborative cancer research programs.

“The past year has been very difficult for all of us,” said William T. Sullivan, executive director of the Foundation. “But last night’s return was a true celebration of the scientists that developed these life-saving vaccines as well as the dedicated researchers around the world working tirelessly to combat the other global pandemic, cancer.”

For example, this year, the Foundation presented its first Breakthrough Science Award to Dr. Kevan Shokat, from the University California San Francisco. Dr. Shokat, an SWCRF-funded investigator, recently discovered a new compound that effectively inhibits a cancer-causing genetic mutation – the overactive KRAS protein - which is a common driver in lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. This mutant protein had been considered “undruggable” for decades, but after 15 years of research and significant investment from SWCRF, Shokat’s discovery paved the way for a new medication which was approved by the FDA this year that shrinks these tumors by up to 50 percent with remarkably low toxicity. Watch: The Joy of a Cancer Treatment Breakthrough

“Over the past few decades, we have seen unprecedented advancements in the treatment of cancer, moving away from toxic treatments and developing more tolerable and effective pills such as this new drug,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, CEO and Founder of SWCRF. “This is a real game changer and it is a perfect example of why we do what we do – invest long-term in leading scientists and encourage collaboration to save lives.”

The Foundation also continued its tradition of recognizing the fashion industry’s longtime partnership to funding innovative cancer research presenting this year’s Fashion Cares Award to Debra S. Waller, Chairman and CEO of Jockey International, Inc. Waller, who has been personally impacted by cancer in her family, was selected for her dedication to eradicating cancer and decades of philanthropy and community involvement.

 During the gala, SWCRF announced a new collaboration with the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai to expand the Foundation’s Aging and Cancer program which already includes partnerships with the National Cancer Institute, National Institute on Aging, and the Israel Cancer Research Foundation. Additionally, the Foundation is funding breakthrough research to combat breast and ovarian cancer. In the past 10 years, SWCRF has allocated $4 million to its Women’s Cancer Research Program and is currently investing $1,550,000 towards 15 prestigious scientists working on finding new treatments for breast and ovarian cancer.

Hosted by CBS’s Chris Wragge, the lively evening concluded with a concert by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit with a very special guest, Warren Haynes. See photo gallery from the annual gala.

About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF):

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.

Media Contact:

Wylie G. Tené

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Director of Marketing and Communications

646-398-5261

[email protected]

Kevan Shokat Ph.D. To Be Awarded The First SWCRF Breakthrough Science Award

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Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation Honors UCSF’s Dr. Kevan Shokat with “Breakthrough Science Award”

Award To Be Presented at 24th Annual Collaborating for A Cure Gala, November 18th

New York, NY – November 08, 2021 – The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) will present its first SWCRF Breakthrough Science Award to Dr. Kevan Shokat, Professor, Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, at the University of California, San Francisco, and Investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute for discovering a method to inhibit the mutant KRAS protein - a common driver of the growth of lung cancer as well as colorectal and pancreatic cancer. His findings led to a new FDA-approved medication that shrinks lung cancer tumors by up to 50 percent with remarkably low toxicity.

“This medication is a real game changer and is a perfect example of why we do what we do here at the SWCRF – fund leading scientists around the world and encourage them to work together towards discovering minimally toxic treatments,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman. “I am pleased to recognize Dr. Shokat with our first Breakthrough Science Award for his groundbreaking, life-saving, research.”

Researchers had known about KRAS for more than 40 years but had all but given up finding a compound that could shut it off, referring to KRAS as “undruggable” or cancer’s “Death Star”. However, in 2008 SWCRF made its first investment into the pioneering research by Kevan Shokat, PhD., who was seeking molecules that could attach to the mutated protein and prevent it from functioning. Five years later, Dr. Shokat, released data showing the discovery of a compound that effectively targeted the cancer cell leading to the creation of new medications.

“Lung cancer is just the beginning. In the next several years we can expect newer, even more effective drugs that will improve treatment outcomes for thousands of patients with life-threatening cancers caused by mutant KRAS,” said Dr. Shokat. “I am grateful for the 15 years of support from the SWCRF that allowed my lab to pursue this research even when it seemed impossible and profoundly honored to receive this Breakthrough Science Award.”

The SWCRF Breakthrough Science Award will be presented to Dr. Shokat at the 24th Annual Collaborating for A Cure Gala benefitting the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. The event will be held in the evening for Thursday November 18th and include fellow honoree, Debra Waller, Chairman and CEO of Jockey International, Inc. For more information about the event visit www.waxmancancer.org/gala. 

About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF):

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.

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Media Contact:

Wylie G. Tené

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Director of Marketing and Communications

646-398-5261

[email protected]

Research Disparities Lead to Less Adequate Cancer Treatment in Older Populations

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Research Disparities Lead to Less Adequate Cancer Treatment in Older Populations

New York, NY – October 26, 2021 – Aging is the highest risk factor for developing cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. In fact, more than 90 percent of cancer diagnoses occur in people aged 50 and older, with peak diagnoses among those aged 65-74. Yet, understanding age-related cancer – its causes and treatment – is underfunded and understudied, leading to less optimal patient outcomes for older adults.

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) has invested more than $100 million to support the work of 200 researchers around the world to address these disparities in both research, and treating cancer in older populations. In 2019, the Foundation launched a partnership with National Cancer Institute and the National Council on Aging to further investigate the complex interplay between aging and cancer and improve treatment options.

“Until recently, there has been minimal attention given to aging and cancer,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, SWCRF CEO and Founder . “However, with cancer incidence and mortality rates rising with an increasing aging population, it is urgent that government agencies, research institutions and universities, cancer research organizations, and businesses and philanthropists, collaborate to fund the research to improve the treatments of older patients.”

Aging AND Cancer, the peer-reviewed journal published by Wiley Publishing in partnership with the SWCRF, is another new initiative to showcase vital research focused on aging and cancer. The third issue is available today and features four new papers, each providing new insights into cancer in older populations authored by investigators associated with SWCRF:

  • Cells with cancer-associated mutations overtake our tissues as we age – DeGregori, James et al: This study reveals how we each accumulate over 100 billion cells with cancer-associated mutations by old age, raising important issues, such as how most of us avoid cancers till we are old despite all of these mutations and how these mutations might alter tissue function as we age. Further studies should help improve methods of detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer, as well as how to mitigate the potential impact of these mutations on our overall health. (link)
  • Developing a multimorbidity prognostic score in elderly patients with solid cancer using administrative databases from Italy - Franchi, Matteo et al: This study aims to improve care for elderly patients with cancer who have other serious illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes by creating a scale to measure mortality risks. Researchers found that developing a Cancer Multimorbidity Score was useful for both identifying high-risk older patients and adjusting clinical care. (link)
  • The potential of cord blood to replenish young immune cells against cancer – Ren, Ruibao et al: This paper examines whether umbilical cord blood, which is considered a source of “young” immune cells for anti-infectious immunity and cancer immunotherapy could be effective for replenishing aging immune cells against neoplastic diseases. (link)
  • Are the estrogen receptor and SIRT3 axes of the mitochondrial UPR key regulators of breast cancer subtype determination according to age? – Gemain, Doris et al: These researchers developed a new model to explain why estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancers are more common in elderly women than in young women, despite the decline in estrogen as women age. The authors’ findings suggest new avenues for prevention and therapies to combat this aging-associated form of breast cancer. (link)

Aging AND Cancer is led by editors-in-chiefs James DeGregori (University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora) and Shen Baiyong (Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai).   

“Disparities in cancer research have real life consequences. For example, only 7 percent of pancreatic cancer patients over 85 years old are eligible for surgery and yet drug-based treatments are also difficult considering that older patients are under-represented in most phase III randomized trails and often are not able to tolerate these medications,” said Shen Baiyong, co-editor of Aging AND Cancer. “This is why the work of the journal is a major step forward to improving cancer treatment for older patients.”

About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF):

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.

About Aging AND Cancer:

Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley focused on understanding how the process of aging is a central component of cancer evolution and progression. The journal covers basic, translational and clinical findings that are of broad interest, investigating the mechanisms via which age-associated deterioration of the individual, from macromolecules to tissues and organs, promote the onset, progression and relapse of cancer, and impact treatment options and outcomes. This journal provides a forum for new results and ideas that improve our understanding for how old age influences many different facets of cancer, from incidence to its development and pathology to treatment outcomes to psycho-social aspects of living with cancer. The journal is published in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. For more information, visit https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/26438909.

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Media Contact:

Wylie Tene

Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

Director of Marketing and Communications

646-398-5261

[email protected]

SWCRF Earns 4-Star Rating from Charity Navigator

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The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation’s strong financial health and commitment to accountability and transparency has earned it a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator.

Since 2002, using objective analysis, Charity Navigator has awarded only the most fiscally responsible organizations a 4-star rating. In 2011, Charity Navigator added 17 metrics, focused on governance and ethical practices as well as measures of openness, to its ratings methodology.  These Accountability & Transparency metrics, which account for 50 percent of a charity’s overall rating, reveal which charities operate in accordance with industry best practices and whether they are open with their donors and stakeholders.

“It’s important that our donors trust that we’re using their generous donations wisely to accomplish our mission to eradicate cancer once and for all,” said William Sullivan.  “Our 4-star Charity Navigator rating demonstrates our commitment to good governance and financial accountability. We hope that our supporters will feel proud and secure with their continued investment in SWCRF’s research programs.”

SWCRF’S exceptional 4-star rating sets it apart from its peers and demonstrates its trustworthiness to the public,” according to Michael Thatcher, President & CEO of Charity Navigator. “Only a quarter of charities rated by Charity Navigator receive the distinction of our 4-star rating. This adds SWCRF to a preeminent group of charities working to overcome our world’s most pressing challenges. Based on its 4-star rating, people can trust that their donations are going to a financially responsible and ethical charity when they decide to support SWCRF.

SWCRF’s rating and other information about charitable giving are available free of charge on www.charitynavigator.org.   More-detailed information about SWCRF’S rating is available to Charity Navigator site visitors who become registered users, another free service.

 About SWCRF

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org/.

 About Charity Navigator

Charity Navigator, www.charitynavigator.org, is the largest charity evaluator in America and its website attracts more visitors than all other charity rating groups combined. The organization helps guide intelligent giving by evaluating the Financial Health and Accountability & Transparency of more than 8,000 charities. Charity Navigator accepts no advertising or donations from the organizations it evaluates, ensuring unbiased evaluations, nor does it charge the public for this trusted data. As a result, Charity Navigator, a 501 (c) (3) public charity itself, depends on support from individuals, corporations and foundations that believe it provides a much-needed service to America's charitable givers. Charity Navigator, can be reached directly by telephone at (201) 818-1288, or by mail at 139 Harristown Road, Suite 101, Glen Rock, N.J., 07452.

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Media Contacts:
Wylie Tene
Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
Director of Marketing and Communications
212-867-4502
[email protected]

Melissa Teefey
Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
Marketing and Communications Intern
212-867-4502
[email protected]

First Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve Raises More Than $100,000 for Cancer Research

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First Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve Raises More Than $100,000 for Cancer Research

New York, NY, July 14, 2021— Nearly 200 people participated in the first-ever Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve, raising more than $100,000 for cancer research. The virtual fundraising event created by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, in partnership with Walk with a Doc, an international non-profit that inspires people to be healthier through movement, took place between June 30 and July 10 as way to combat the rising incidence of cancer around the world.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), cancer rates are rising around the world with advanced age being the most significant risk factor. This includes the more than 60 percent of Americans who are 65 and older diagnosed with cancer each year. Research shows that maintaining a healthy body weight, having an active lifestyle, and not using tobacco are among some of the best ways to lower one’s risk.

“We are thrilled with the success of this inaugural event,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, Founder and CEO of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. “We launched the Global Walk to Flatten the Cancer Curve to encourage a healthier lifestyle and increase awareness of the growing rates of cancer in aging populations around the world. With these donations we will also be able to direct vital funds to leading scientists around the world investigating new, less toxic treatments for cancer.”

During the 11-day virtual walk, participants tracked their steps and activities such as walking, running, cycling, swimming, or even cleaning the house, to collectively accumulate enough miles to walk around the world. The foundation plans to conduct this virtual walk next year and hopes to recruit more participants and double the fundraising total.

Sponsors included HUGO BOSS, Fashions Inc, and MANN Publications.

About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org/

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Media Contacts:
Wylie Tene
Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
Director of Marketing and Communications
212-867-4502
[email protected]

Melissa Teefey
Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation
Marketing and Communications Intern
212-867-4502
[email protected]

Older Multiple Myeloma Patients Require Personalized Treatment

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Older Multiple Myeloma Patients Require Personalized Treatment

New Method Developed To Improve Outcomes

New York, NY, April 29, 2021 – Precision treatment that identifies the best medications to treat multiple myeloma (MM) is key to improving outcomes for older, frail patients according to a new report in the June (2021) issue of Aging AND Cancer.

While MM is an incurable disease, advances in drug treatments over the last 20 years have improved quality of life. However, older patients tend to have less tolerance for the side effects associated with the typical three-drug regimen, usually administered in regular infusion appointments that can last months to years. Therefore, older adults tend to be under-treated, often receiving two-drugs regimens with less likelihood for a good response.

Dubbed Myeloma Drug Sensitivity Testing, or My-DST, Dr. Daniel Sherbenou and colleagues at the University of Colorado Division of Hematology have developed a method to test multiple drugs against an individual’s myeloma in cell culture to determine which selection of medications will be most effective, while avoiding ones that will have minimal to no detectable efficacy, thereby providing a path to minimize medication side-effects.

“Treating MM, especially in older patients, epitomizes the struggle to balance treatment options and the possible complications. Studies have shown repeatedly that two-drug combinations are inferior to three, so when elderly patients receive only two medications, they are unfortunately receiving inferior treatment. Thus, picking the right medications in these situations would be a huge step forward,” said Dr. Sherbenou.

In their recent study, they demonstrate that My-DST could accurately determine which drugs for each individual’s unique malignancy, suggesting that implementing this approach would lead to better outcomes. And since most elderly patients cannot tolerate the three-drug regimen, if only efficacious drugs are employed, patients should experience better outcomes while avoiding toxicities associated with multiple drug combinations.

In the U.S. MM comprises roughly 10 percent of all hematologic cancers. The median age of onset is 70 years, and 37 percent of newly diagnosed cases are in patients at least 75-years-old. There are now more than 35,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the United States, a number that has risen steadily in parallel to an expanding aging population.

“There are significant disparities in treating cancer in older populations,” said Dr. Samuel Waxman, Founder and CEO of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation. “Lack of inclusion in clinical trials as well as under-funded research focused on older patients, results in less adequate treatment, greater risk for cancer, and rising incidences of cancer due to aging. Studies such as Dr. Sherbenou’s are vital for improving the quality of care for older adults.”

 About the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF):

The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation is an international organization dedicated to curing and preventing cancer. The Foundation is a pioneer in cancer research and its mission is to eradicate cancer by funding cutting-edge research that identifies and corrects abnormal gene function that causes cancer and develops minimally toxic treatments for patients. Through the Foundation’s collaborative group of world-class scientists, the Institute Without Walls, investigators share information and tools to speed the pace of cancer research. Since its inception in 1976, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to support the work of more than 200 researchers across the globe. For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org.

About Aging AND Cancer:

Aging AND Cancer is a relatively new open access journal from Wiley focused on understanding how the process of aging is a central component of cancer evolution and progression. The journal covers basic, translational and clinical findings that are of broad interest, investigating the mechanisms via which age-associated deterioration of the individual, from macromolecules to tissues and organs, promote the onset, progression and relapse of cancer, treatment options and outcomes. This journal provides a forum for new results and ideas that improve our understanding for how old age influences many different facets of cancer, from incidence to its development and pathology to treatment outcomes to psycho-social aspects of living with cancer. The journal is published in affiliation with the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation.

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The SWCRF Co-launch International Center for Aging and Cancer in Hainan

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New York, NY, December 18, 2020 – The New York-based Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) formally launched the International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC) in Hainan, China, in an exuberant inauguration ceremony and conference held today with presentations by research investigators tackling aging as one of the biggest risk factors for cancer.

The SWCRF, Hainan Medical University, and Ruijin Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine have joined forces to found ICAC. It has been established as an academic research center promoting basic, translational, and clinical research to reduce the increasing global burden of cancer as a disease of aging.

“This center is an important achievement as we are addressing the major risk for cancer and that is aging. The incidence of cancer is rising considerably among the world’s aging population, and with the number of adults over age 50 growing, cancer will quite frankly become a worldwide epidemic. The International Center for Aging and Cancer will devote resources to bring together scientists who are studying aging with those who are studying cancer to tackle this global public health crisis. This center will be fully committed to transparency, reciprocity and adherence to the norms of scientific integrity. I am proud that this new center builds upon the SWCRF history of international cooperation and collaboration that transcends politics for the greater good,” said Samuel Waxman, MD., Founder and CEO of the SWCRF.

Ruibao Ren, Director of Shanghai Institute of Hematology and co-organizer of the ICAC inauguration and conference, added, “The recognition of roles of aging in the development of cancer expands the theoretic paradigm for cancer.  The meaning of aging here is more pathological, rather than merely a reflection of age. Finding aberrant factors that allow cancerous cells to grow, spread and resistant to therapies will not only shed new lights into the understanding of cancer, but provide new opportunities of effective therapy and prevention. The establishment of ICAC is both important and timely. We will continue to work together to fight the global challenge of cancer.”

During the past several years, the SWCRF spearheaded a renewed focus on aging and cancer, and in 2018, partnered with the National Cancer Institute and National Institute on Aging for a two-year, $3 million intramural and extramural research collaborations. Last year, the SWCRF partnered with Wiley to publish a new scientific peer-reviewed open access journal titled “Aging and Cancer” that is focused on understanding how the process of aging is linked to cancer.

In 2015, Dr. Waxman approached clinical and research leaders in China about establishing an international research center after many years of collaborating with China-based investigators on cancer research. Dr. Waxman’s collaboration that started in the 1980s developed a cure for Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APL), a once deadly form of leukemia. The treatment with a greater than 95% success rate uses differentiation therapy without chemotherapy.

ICAC held the inauguration ceremony on Friday, December 18, 2020, in Haikou, a city in Hainan province, along with an international conference featuring prominent scientists in the field of aging and cancer. The conference was televised live via Zoom and featured:

Samuel Waxman, M.D.
CEO and Founder of the SWCRF, Distinguished Service Professor, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Honorary Professor, Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Yang Jun, M.D.
President, Hainan Medical University

Chen Zhu, M.D., Ph.D.
Chinese Academy of Science & Vice-Chairman, The Standing Committee of National People’s Congress

James DeGregori, Ph.D. (SWCRF-funded investigator, 2020)
Professor and Chair in Lung Cancer Research at the University of Colorado

Ross Levine, M.D. (SWCRF-funded investigator, 2020)
Chair in Leukemia Research; Chief, Molecular Cancer Medicine Service, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Ashani Weeraratna, Ph.D.
Chair, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health

Brian Kennedy, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry and Physiology at National University of Singapore

Judith Campisi, Ph.D.
Professor, Buck Institute for Research on Aging

Inigo Martincorena, Ph.D.
Group Leader, Sanger Institute

Maria Blasco, Ph.D.
Director Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CINO)

Hartmut Geiger, Ph.D.
Director and Professor at the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Aging at Ulm University

Ruibao Ren, M.D., Ph.D.
Director of Shanghai Institute of Hematology, Ruijin Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine.

SWCRF to Cofound Research and Aging Center in Hainan

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WHAT: Inauguration Ceremony and Conference to Launch the International Research Center on Aging and Cancer

WHEN: Friday, December 18, 2020 (Thursday, December 17 – United States)

WHERE: Haikou, Hainan – China (Livestream via Zoom)

WHY: The New York-based SWCRF will formally launch the International Center for Aging and Cancer (ICAC) in Hainan, China, in an inauguration ceremony and conference next week with presentations by research investigators tackling aging as the single biggest risk factor for cancer.

The SWCRF, Hainan Medical University, and Ruijin Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine have joined forces to found ICAC, which will be an academic research center promoting basic, translational, and clinical research to reduce the increasing global burden of cancer as a disease of aging.

Since 2015, the SWCRF spearheaded a renewed focus on aging and cancer, and in 2018 partnered with the National Cancer Institute and National Institute on Aging for a two-year, $3 million intramural and extramural research collaborations. Last year, the SWCRF partnered with Wiley to publish a new scientific journal titled “Aging and Cancer” that advances research breakthroughs and thought leadership around aging and cancer.

ICAC will hold the inauguration ceremony on Friday, December 18, 2020, in Haikou, a city in Hainan province, along with an international conference featuring prominent scientists in the field of aging and cancer. The conference will be televised live via Zoom and will feature:

December 17, 7:45 PM (EST)
Samuel Waxman, M.D.
CEO and Founder of the SWCRF, Distinguished Service Professor, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Honorary Professor,

December 17, 8:30 PM (EST)
James DeGregori, Ph.D. (SWCRF-funded investigator, 2020)
Professor and Chair in Lung Cancer Research at the University of Colorado

December 17, 9:00 PM (EST)
Ross Levine, M.D. (SWCRF-funded investigator, 2020)
Chair in Leukemia Research; Chief, Molecular Cancer Medicine Service, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

December 17, 9:30 PM (EST)
Ashani Weeraratna, Ph.D.
Chair, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health

December 17, 10:00 PM (EST)
Brian Kennedy, Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Biochemistry and Physiology at National University of Singapore

December 17, 10:30 PM (EST)
Judith Campisi, Ph.D.
Professor, Buck Institute for Research on Aging

Other presenters include Inigo Martincorena, Ph.D., Group Leader at, Sanger Institute; Maria Blasco, Ph.D., Director Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CINO); and Hartmut Geiger, Ph.D., Director and Professor at the Institute for Molecular Medicine and Stem Cell Aging at Ulm University; and Ruibao Ren, M.D., Ph.D., Director at Shanghai Institute of Hematology.

Contact Jesse Dean at 646-398-5261 or [email protected] for more information and to obtain a link to the conference.

The SWCRF Gala Honors Leidos’ Roger A. Krone and Raises $2 Million for Cancer Research

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Roger A. Krone of Leidos Honored by the SWCRF
Roger A. Krone of Leidos Honored by the SWCRF

NEW YORK, NY/RESTON, VA – The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF) today announced that it honored Leidos Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Roger A. Krone at its annual Collaborating for a Cure Gala. The SWCRF recognized Mr. Krone for his commitment to improving health and communities through philanthropy and his prominence as a global leader in biomedical research. The award was presented at the virtual streaming of the SWCRF 23rd Collaborating for a Cure Gala that drew nearly 800 viewers on Thursday, November 19, 2020.

 

“From addressing opioid addiction to supporting military veterans, Roger and Leidos have a track record of leading philanthropic and community support to address some of today’s most urgent health and social challenges. Leidos is at the forefront of health information technology and innovative research of cancer, HIV, and infectious diseases. We are delighted to recognize you, Roger, for your support of the SWCRF and our quest to realize a world without cancer,” said Samuel Waxman, M.D., Founder and Chief Executive Officer at SWCRF. 

 

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation,” said Mr. Krone. “The Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, currently operated by Leidos Biomedical Research on behalf of the National Cancer Institute, works on the forefront of basic, translational and clinical science. I am confident with the great minds at labs like Frederick, and with the generosity of caring people like you, we will decode cancer once and for all. Thank you again for this honor.”

 

Mr. Krone leads Leidos, a Fortune 500® information technology, engineering, and science solutions and services leader working to solve the world’s toughest challenges in the defense, intelligence, homeland security, civil, and health markets. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, the company and its 38,000 employees support vital missions for government and commercial customers. Leidos Biomedical Research is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Leidos.

 

The SWCRF Collaborating for a Cure Gala is one of New York City’s most anticipated charity events that kicks off the holiday season and typically attracts more than 1,000 guests. This year, the SWRF held its first-ever virtual Gala, which raised $2 million to maintain more than 50 research programs and collaborations. To date, the event has raised more than $40 million for the SWCRF cancer research programs.

 

The virtual event featured an award presentation, a retrospective of past musical performances by some of the world’s most iconic musical legends and appearances from some of the SWCRF’s most notable leaders and supporters. Those featured included, Gala Honoree, Roger A. Krone, Chairman and CEO; Leidos, Elizabeth Porter, President, Leidos Health Group; Ethan Dmitrovsky, M.D., President, Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc., Director, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research and member of the SWCRF Board of Director; Michael Nierenberg, Chairman, SWCRF Board of Directors; Samuel Waxman, M.D., Founder and CEO, SWCRF and Distinguished Service Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai; Stokes Neilson, musical artist with The Lost Trailers and event co-emcee; Chris Wragge, CBS 2 News New York; Baron Silverstein, President of NewRez LLC and members of the SWCRF Board of Directors; Nick Santoro, CFO of NewRez LLC and member of the SWRF Board of Directors; Marc Taub, President and CEO of Taub Family Companies and member of the SWRF Board of Directors; Charles Sorrentino, Managing Director at Fortress Investment Group; and Martin Migliara of Bank of America Securities.

 

“This year has been difficult for all of us, and we are moved tremendously by the generous spirit displayed by so many longtime and new donors. The trust they place in the SWCRF and our innovative approaches to cancer research is a testament to a unified effort to end cancer, one of the world’s most devastating diseases. The support raised during unprecedented health and economic challenges facing the nation will enable the SWCRF to maintain its research programs. These programs address 14 types of cancers and tackle aging as the single highest risk factor for developing cancer, through our Partnership for Aging and Cancer Research program,” said William T. Sullivan, Executive Director, SWCRF.