February 21, 2008, marked the inaugural of  Ice Miller's life science distinguished speaker's series.  We were fortunate enough that Homer L. Pearce, Ph.D., could join us as the featured speaker on the "Progress in the War on Cancer."  Homer spent the last 30+ years working in cancer research and development.   He also has a continuing distinguished career of scholarly publications, teaching and consulting and advisory services in the cancer field.

The unofficial war on cancer was declared in 1971 during President's Nixon State of Union address. Later that year, Nixon signed the National Cancer Act into law, declaring, "I hope in the years ahead we will look back on this action today as the most significant action taken during my Administration."  Since that time, over $200 billion has been allocated to cancer research.

Statistics surrounding the causalities in the war on cancer are staggering.  It is still a major disease.  Over 1.5 million Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year – an average of one every 30 seconds.  About 600,000 deaths occur each year.  In 2010, cancer will likely be the leading cause of death in the U.S. 

But there is some progress in the war on cancer and Indiana's life science community is playing a significant role.  Indiana is home to some of the leading cancer research institutions, including Indiana University and the Purdue University Cancer Center.  Biotech companies are creating both innovative diagnostic tools and genome therapies.  Our major pharmaceutical companies are also bringing to market targeted pharma solutions.

Future prospects will likely include personalized drug protocols for each patient with treatment based on individual profiles.  New technologies in screening and detection will also play a major role as will prevention.

As Dr. Pearce observed, one thing is clear – a victory in the war on cancer can only be declared through a spirit of mutual trust and cooperation between all stakeholders.