Lance Armstrong launches new cancer research initiative

Cancer survivor Lance Armstrong credits his life to cancer research and wants more people to join the race for a cancer cure. More than 400 promising new cancer treatments are being studied today, yet less than five percent of patients participate in clinical research. The three-time Tour de France champion is launching a new initiative called "Cancer Research: It’s Worth the Ride."

The effort features information about clinical trials on his Cycle of Hope campaign web site, public service announcements and community outreach.

"I would not be alive today if it wasn’t for the cancer research that has been done in the last 10 to 15 years," saud Armstrong.

Five years ago, Armstrong was diagnosed with advanced testicular cancer and given a 50 percent chance to live. Armstrong encourages people diagnosed with cancer to learn everything they can about their disease and their treatment options, including whether or not a clinical trial is the best option for them.

The US cancer community welcomed Armstrong’s involvement.

"Cancer research needs a champion like Lance Armstrong to let people know that clinical trials may offer the best treatment today and are our greatest hope for the future," said Robert L. Comis, MD, president of the National Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life and survival of cancer patients by increasing participation in cancer clinical trials.

In February 2000, Armstrong teamed up with his non-profit foundation, the Lance Armstrong Foundation, and Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, makers of the medicines that successfully treated his disease, to create and launch the Cycle of Hope campaign.

http://www.cycleofhope.org/