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University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center

Contact Information

1725 W. Harrison St. Suite 774 Chicago, IL 60612
(312) 738-3732

Affiliated Doctors

Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler

The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center employs over 200 research scientists and clinicians to bring their patients leading edge pharmacological treatments and devices. In 2009, the University of Chicago Medical Center was ranked one of the best hospitals in the United States according to U.S. News and World Report. Its cancer program is ranked 17th in the United States, and the center has received its designation as a comprehensive center for cancer and is recognized for its excellence in patient care, research, and clinical trials. Their diverse research program attempts to set them apart from other research institutions.

Located on the South Side of Chicago, the University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center focuses on patient awareness. For this reason, the research center formed a partnership with the American Cancer Society to provide the patient with resources and support throughout the process. Part of the awareness involves educational videos and materials designed to improve understanding of diagnosis and treatment. Pain management, future prevention, and nutritional education may also be discussed with clinical social workers.

One-on-one counseling and financial assistance are available to guide patients through the process with as little difficulty as possible. Other resources, such as hair replacement options, as well as lodging, transportation, dining, and computer access are also offered. Oncologists at the University of Chicago pride themselves on using an empathetic approach to help patients process their diagnosis.

The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center has studied the effects of mesothelioma for over 20 years. This rare cancer is caused by asbestos exposure and usually garners the grimmest prognosis once diagnosed. University of Chicago Cancer Research Center has designated a special focus on the disease and drugs that cater to rare cancers. Advances in chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapies, and surgery are made annually to bring patients the best care possible.

Diagnosis is one of the most important phases of cancer treatment. In order to select the most effective modality for treatment, the oncologist must first yield an accurate diagnosis. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron Emission Technology (PET), and Computed Tomography (CT) are each available for diagnostic testing. Because of the leading edge scientific research, patients at the University of Chicago are usually among the first to receive novel treatments. New minimally invasive surgical techniques, along with image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) are among the new technologies introduced as cancer treatment options. IGRT is a targeted therapy and shows significantly less side effects than other treatment options.

Clinical trials are an important part of cancer therapy. The American Cancer Society is available to provide information on current clinical trials offered by the University of Chicago Research Center. The center is currently conducting clinical trials of several new promising cancer treatments and diagnostic techniques. Some of the most promising include:

Pemetrexed, CBP501 and Cisplatin combination therapy are currently in Phase I and Phase II trials for treatment of advanced stages of tumor development.
Pemetrexed and Cisplatin may be used in combination with MORAb-009 in patients with rare cancer diseases.
Studies show the relationship of nephrotoxicity and germline genetic determinants with use of Cisplatin.
Scientists study to improve techniques associated with biopsy samples from the lungs, esophagus, and other affected areas.
Oncologists research the use of AZD2171 in patients with advanced cancer diseases.

The University of Chicago Cancer Research Center is a world renown cancer center. The research center has been at the leading edge of developing cancer treatments for nearly 2 decades and continues to advance in the area of cancer treatment.