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Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center's Lung Cancer Team Earns Prestigious Global Award

The Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center (MECCC) has announced that its dedicated lung cancer team has received international recognition for its exceptional patient care. This accolade, awarded by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC), was revealed during their annual meeting held in Barcelona, Spain, marking a significant achievement for the center.

A Testament to Patient-Centered Care

Each year, the IASLC bestows the Cancer Care Team Award (CCTA) on one institution from each geographical region worldwide, including North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia, and other parts of the globe. The winners are chosen based on their commitment to providing unparalleled treatment for lung cancer patients and those with thoracic malignancies. This year, MECCC stands out as the sole recipient from North America, highlighting its dedication to cancer care.

Dr. Brendon Stiles, a leading figure at the center, stated, "Our patient-first philosophy shared by our entire team ensures that every individual feels supported throughout their cancer journey. By delivering compassionate care tailored to the goals and lifestyle of each patient, we make a real difference in their lives."

The nomination for this prestigious award came from Jeanna Dickerson, a lung cancer survivor diagnosed with stage III non-small cell lung carcinoma at age 67 in 2023. Under the guidance of her care team, Dickerson received neoadjuvant immunotherapy prior to surgery, which significantly reduced the tumor size, allowing for a less invasive surgical procedure. Thanks to this approach, she experienced a swift recovery and regained her quality of life.

A Survivor's Voice

"This team gave me confidence and peace of mind during my recovery," Dickerson reflected. "Dr. Stiles knew I was expecting my first grandchild. Now, not only have I overcome cancer, but we will also celebrate that grandchild's first birthday this autumn." Her story is a remarkable testament to the potential of effective cancer care.

The award highlights the collaborative efforts of the entire thoracic oncology team and support staff at MECCC. Key nominated members of the team include Dr. Stiles, who serves as Chief of Thoracic Surgery and Surgical Oncology at Montefiore, Balzs Halmos, an Oncologist and Professor of Oncology, Nitin Ohri, a Radiation Oncologist, and various nurses and practitioners involved in patient care.

Dr. Halmos expressed his pride in leading the multidisciplinary team, stating, "This award reflects how we work together to care for our patients, and more importantly, the countless ways we support individuals like Mrs. Dickerson to fully reclaim their lives."

The Role of IASLC

The IASLC uniquely focuses on the study of lung cancer and related thoracic malignancies, with a membership exceeding 10,000 professionals from around the globe dedicated to advancing lung cancer care.

About Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center

Established in 1971, the MECCC is a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center located in the Bronx, one of New York City's most ethnically and racially diverse areas. The center combines the scientific excellence of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine with a multidisciplinary approach and team-based cancer care at Montefiore Health System. Since its designation, MECCC has set a benchmark for excellence in cancer research, clinical care, education, and community engagement, striving to reduce the cancer burden for everyone, particularly historically underserved populations.

This international accolade not only reinforces the commitment of MECCC to high-quality cancer care but also serves as an inspiration to healthcare providers worldwide in the fight against lung cancer and other related diseases.