March 15, 2006                                                                

Friends of Cancer Research Supports Nomination of Andrew von Eschenbach to head FDA

 (Washington) -  Friends of Cancer Research (Friends) is pleased to support the nomination of Andrew C. von Eschenbach, MD, as Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  “As an accomplished physician-investigator and three-time cancer survivor, Dr. von Eschenbach will bring a proven background of knowledge and experience on clinical research, clinical practice, and patient care to the FDA,” Friends Chair Dr. Ellen Sigal said of the announcement.  

Dr. von Eschenbach spent much of his academic career at the highly prestigious M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston before becoming Director of the National Cancer Institute, which is the nation's largest source of cancer research funding. Dr. von Eschenbach is a nationally recognized urologic surgeon and has contributed more than 200 articles, books, and chapters to the scientific literature. 

Dr. Sigal concluded, “Having worked with Dr. von Eschenbach in his capacity as Director of the National Cancer Institute, I am confident that he will continue to make sound scientifically-based decisions that will benefit the entire research continuum — from the discovery of new knowledge about the process of disease to the delivery of new, more effective, and safer treatments.”

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 Friends of Cancer Research (Friends) is a blend of strong voices from leading members of the cancer community that engages key stakeholders in the scientific, patient, government, corporate, and media sectors.  Founded in 1996 to mark the 25th Anniversary of the National Cancer Act, Friends raises awareness and provides public education on cancer research in order to accelerate the nation’s progress toward better tools for the prevention, detection, and treatment of all cancers.  More information about Friends is available at www.focr.org.