A woman’s battle against breast cancer does not end after treatment has been completed. In fact, women in the growing community of nearly 2.5 million breast cancer survivors can benefit tremendously from education and valuable support services.

Breast cancer survivors and their loved ones are invited to learn about the latest information on breast cancer treatment and survivorship issues at Pittsburgh’s first “The Many Faces of Breast Cancer” event on Tuesday, September 15. Scheduled to take place from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) Cancer Center, the program
was designed to educate survivors about their risks of cancer recurrence, what steps can be taken to minimize that risk and what supports services are available to assist women on this journey.

According to Jane Raymond, MD, Director of the AGH Division of Medical Oncology, breast cancer survivors are at greatest risk of a recurrence within the first five years after completing treatment.

At the September 15 event, an engaging panel of AGH cancer specialist and other local medical experts will address a range of issues affecting women in the aftermath of treatment for breast cancer, including:

- Psychosocial needs
- Nutrition and diet
- Recurrence
- The latest treatment research
- Genetic counseling and risk assessment

Attendees will have direct access to members of the panel to discuss issues and ask questions. Local advocacy groups will also be on site to offer information about services they provide to cancer survivors.

In addition to Dr. Raymond, others who will participate in the program include:

- Thomas B. Julian, MD, Director, Division of Breast Surgical Oncology, and Associate Director, Allegheny Breast Care Center
- Betsy W. Blazek-O’Neill, MD, Medical Director, Integrated Medicine Program, Allegheny Cancer Center
- Megan Marshall, MS, Certified Genetic Counselor, Allegheny Cancer Center

“We are delighted to be able to offer this program and to serve our breast cancer patients’ needs in a nontraditional way outside the walls of the doctor’s office,” said Dr. Julian.

Admission, refreshments and parking in AGH’s James Street garage are free for this event. Space is limited and advance registration is recommended. To register, call (888) 866-0858 or email ManyFacesPittsburgh@zenogroupevents.com