Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) has expanded its research program to Athens, giving local residents access to leading-edge trials, typically only available at major academic centers.
The clinical research program at GCS—a Top 10 cancer practice in the U.S.—focuses on making targeted cancer therapy accessible to patients in their local communities. The GCS research program currently offers Phase I-IV clinical trials for all major tumor types, including lung cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, colon cancer, and prostate cancer, and is the only private cancer practice in Georgia to offer Phase I clinical trials.
Dr. Mansoor Saleh, Director of Clinical Research at GCS, said, “Clinical trials represent an investment for current patients with the benefits being inherited by future generations of patients. I’m proud that we’ll now be able to offer our clinical trial repertoire to the people of Athens.”
GCS physician Dr. Richard O. Loyd, who has practiced in Athens for more than four years, will serve as Lead Investigator at the GCS-Athens office.
“This is a huge step forward for cancer research in Athens, and is only the beginning of what we will eventually offer to Athens residents. Rather than driving to Atlanta to participate in a trial, Athens residents can simply drive down the street, and then return to the comfort of their home. This is a milestone event for the Athens community,” said Dr. Loyd.
The Athens research program is currently enrolling patients in an international phase III breast cancer trial using a novel humanized antibody that targets tumor blood vessels.
Georgia Cancer Specialists is a Top 10 private cancer practice in the U.S. and a leader in advanced cancer treatment and research. The practice supports more than 200,000 patient visits each year. GCS offers community-based medical oncology and hematology services and is the first private oncology practice to also provide a full range of support services for patients in Georgia, including wellness counseling and home health coordination. The GCS research department, whose focus is bringing targeted cancer therapy to communities, is the first in Georgia to offer Phase I clinical trials, the most novel cancer therapies available. GCS has 28 offices, 44 physicians, and more than 500 support staff members located in Metro Atlanta, and North and Central Georgia. Georgia Cancer Specialists can be found on the web at www.gacancer.com GCS is The Cancer Answer®.