Date(s):
6^th - 7^th September 2016

Venue:
Education Centre (Dept 17), The Christie, Manchester, M20 4BX

Course description:

This two day intermediate-level course gives research nurses and trials staff the knowledge and confidence to discuss many new cancer treatments with their patients and colleagues. (Some of the many drugs explained include: cetuximab/Erbitux, trastuzumab/Herceptin &bevacizumab/Avastin) During the course, Elaine will explain many of the concepts behind the personalisation of cancer care such as: the range of different mutations in cancer cells, the difference between passenger and driver mutations, the appearance of drug resistance and the potential advantages of immunotherapy for cancers without targetable mutations. The course focuses on solid tumours. However, the emphasis on de-mystifying and explaining the science behind cancer treatments will benefit anyone working with cancer patients or cancer clinical trials.

Topics:

• Introduction to cancer cell biology and genetics .
• The defining characteristics of cancer cells.
• Explanations of monoclonal antibodies and kinase inhibitors.
• Concepts relating to drug resistance e.g. the cancer microenvironment, genomic instability, intra-tumoural heterogeneity .
• A step-by-step guide to cell communication and the drugs that target it.
• Novel targets and treatments e.g. hedgehog inhibitors and immunotherapy .
• The growing use of umbrella/basket trials to improve cancer treatment and the importance of cancer samples and biomarkers.

Target Audience:

Research nurses, clinical nurse specialists, chemotherapy/out-patient cancer nurses, pharmacists, clinical trials coordinators and other trials staff. No scientific or medical background is required. Pre-course reading will be sent out to familiarise participants with some of the scientific concepts covered during the day.

Learning outcomes:

• Gain an understanding of cancer at a cellular and genetic level .
• Appreciate how this knowledge is expanding and its potential to benefit people with cancer.
• Learn how many types of targeted cancer treatments work.
• Become familiar with scientific jargon surrounding targeted cancer treatments and clinical trials.
• Understand treatment resistance and why many drugs fail to benefit people with cancer.
• Appreciate the potential benefits of a personalised approach to cancer treatment, but also its implications and drawbacks.

Teaching method:

Practical exercises, question sheets and quizzes.

Course fee:

£200 (NHS staff)
£350 (Non-NHS staff) .