Pitt to Host Annual Pancreatic Research Meeting

PITTSBURGH, July 16, 2008 – More than 100 physicians and scientists from around the country will discuss the latest findings in pancreatic research at PancreasFest 2008 at the Hillman Cancer Center July 24 through 26.

Topics to be covered at the event will include the challenges of determining whom to screen for pancreatic cancer, new therapeutic approaches for treating pancreatic cancer, how to manage complications after pancreas surgery, and the current status and utility of biomarkers. PancreasFest is intended to create an environment that encourages multi-center collaborations and assist junior researchers in developing an academic career in pancreatic disease.

"In many ways, the pancreas is still a mystery," said David Whitcomb, MD, PhD, professor of medicine, cell biology, physiology and human genetics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. "Although we've made a lot of progress in understanding the pancreas, especially in terms of its genetic relationships, we have a long way to go. Because diseases like chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer strike a very small percentage of the population, it's necessary to collaborate with researchers from other institutes to build up patient registry for research studies and clinical trials that will help us to advance our knowledge and patient care."

This year, for the first time, the event includes a continuing medical education credit component for physicians, expanding the scope of the event to include patient care issues.

In addition to morning meetings led by nationally renowned researchers and physicians, investigators will meet each afternoon to discuss their work with those who have similar research interests.

With the goals of presenting the latest basic, clinical and translational pancreas research and encouraging cross-collaboration among researchers from across the country, PancreasFest 2008 invites researchers and physicians to register or request a course brochure by calling 412-623-0021.

Reporters and Editors: For further information or to register as press for PancreasFest 2008, please call 412-586-9773 or email McCrimmonCP@upmc.edu.

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