The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (HICCC) of Columbia University (CU) is the University’s organizational structure for the conduct of basic, clinical and population-based cancer research and patient care. Cancer Center researchers and physicians are dedicated to understanding the biology of cancer and to applying that knowledge to the design of cancer therapies and prevention strategies that reduce its incidence and progression and improve the quality of the lives of those affected by cancer.
Columbia’s interest in cancer research dates from 1911 with the creation of the Institute for Cancer Research. Initially funded by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in 1972 and designated comprehensive in 1979, the HICCC is one of only 41 NCI-designated comprehensive cancer centers in the United States, of which only three are in New York State.
Today, the HICCC has more than 200 members from six schools at Columbia University. Current NCI funding to members is more than $33.0 million and Cancer Center members have been awarded over $95.0 million (total costs) in total peer-reviewed cancer research grants.
The Research Programs are organized into three divisions – Basic, Disease-specific, and Population-basedscience – with a total of eight Research Programs. The Center also supports and manages 12 Shared Resourceswhich provide services that are essential to cancer research.
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
At Columbia Urology, we are experienced at assessing the risks and determining a prognosis for each man’s prostate cancer. We tailor a treatment program for each individual based on several factors: the stage of his disease, his age and life expectancy, his feelings about quality-of-life measures, and which therapy promises the best chance of a cure. We make sure every patient thoroughly understands his disease and the potential benefits and side effects of his treatment options. We help each man choose the avenue of treatment best suited to him and his preferences. In fact, we view this as a family decision and when appropriate, we prefer that a man’s spouse or significant other be present for the discussion of treatment options.
Prostate Cancer Surgery
Men with typical and aggressive prostate cancer who seek care at Columbia Urology will find doctors who are internationally recognized experts in their respective fields. We offer expertise in the full spectrum of state-of-the-art surgical approaches including nerve sparing prostatectomy and nerve transplant surgery, minimally invasive techniques such as robotic assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and cryosurgical treatment. Columbia Urology is one of a few select centers in the country – and the first in New York City – to use the High Definition da Vinci S Surgical System to perform minimally invasive robotic surgery to treat prostate cancer. Please visit of robotic surgery link to learn more about this world-class program. We also work closely with Columbia University Medical Center oncologists and radiation oncologists to assure that patients who are not eligible for surgery, who require a combination of therapies, or who opt for a different approach receive optimal care.
Prostate Cancer Research
Doctors at Columbia Urology also serve on the faculty at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and the National Cancer Institute designated Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center where they design and conduct research on the vanguard of prostate cancer treatment. This research includes clinical trials on a range of novel and promising treatments for typical and aggressive prostate cancer. Columbia Urology doctors often conduct research collaboratively with other departments as well as with other cancer centers throughout the country. Our comprehensive and integrated research program is designed to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and efficacy of prostate cancer treatment.
Multi-Disciplinary Treatment for Prostate Cancer
Columbia Urology is an integral part of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, one of the nation’s top six hospitals, according to the most recent U.S. News and World Report survey. This means that patients treated here for prostate cancer also have access to the best doctors in every medical specialty, no matter what medical issues exist or arise during their prostate cancer care. It is important to remember that you are not just a prostate cancer patient, your body is a complex system and you should be under the treatment of national and international experts for all aspects of your medical needs.
Patients across the U.S. and worldwide seek the skills and technology offered in surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy by Columbia Urology doctors. That’s because we provide individualized, expert care that gives each patient the maximum chance of both a cure for his disease and the best quality of life.
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