Table of Contents...3. Chairman s Report Medical Services Early Detection Rehabilitation and Welfare... 37

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1 Table of Contents Table of Contents...3 Chairman s Report... 4 ICA Fight against Cancer Budget Distribution for Medical Services... 9 ICA Supported Medical Institutions Public Information and Education Early Detection Rehabilitation and Welfare The Sir Charles Clore Hostel Professional Seminars and Conferences Professional Training International Conferences Research Memorial Funds Donated to the ICA Data Collection and Follow-up Equipment, Construction and Development Volunteers and Special Events Friends of the ICA Abroad Annual Door Knock Fundraising Campaign Annual Door Knock Fundraising Campaign Chairmen Bequests, Legacies and Commemorations Committee Members ICA Branches Abroad... back Editing Or-Tal Huri Graphic Design Billet Studio Printed by Ayalon-Print Translation Rona Hilu All rights reserved by the Israel Cancer Association, 2009

2 A Message from the Chairman As in past years, this year has been one of productive and diverse endeavor. We have invested unique efforts in promoting our activities in various sectors of the population. We marked the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, World Cancer Day, Skin Cancer Awareness Month and no tobacco day, all of which evoked great resonance. Prof. Eliezer Robinson Chairman, Israel Cancer Association We have continued investing resources to increase public awareness about cancer diseases and ways of preventing them through numerous informational and educational activities. We also held conferences and seminars for professional staff, patients and their families as well as for the general population. We launched many new media campaigns regarding the harmful effects of smoking and uncontrolled sun exposure as well as a new campaign on the importance of energy balanced avoiding obesity and adopting a healthy lifestyle including physical exercise. We have continued investing a great deal in promoting cancer research, purchasing medical equipment, renovating institutes and clinics, and updating and supporting a professional network dealing with cancer patients on a daily basis. We also focused on enhancing quality of life and endeavoring for the welfare of cancer patients and their families. This year a "Laughter Room" was inaugurated for the welfare of children with cancer at Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, as well as the Reuben Foundation Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Linn Clinic in Haifa. The Sarah Markovich Breast Care Center at the Kaplan Medical Center is still under construction and is anticipated to be inaugurated by the end of The Suzy Eban oncology unit at Ziv Medical Center in Safed is under expansion through the contribution of Clore Foundation and we continue vigorously to promote new projects for the benefit of cancer patients, survivors and their families. 4 This past year the Israel Cancer Association lost its beloved and dedicated President, Benny Gaon of blessed memory, who passed away of cancer at the age of 73, and we mourn his untimely demise. May his memory be blessed. Sincerely, Prof. Eliezer Robinson Chairman, Israel Cancer Association

3 We congratulate ICA Chairman, Prof. Eliezer Robinson, on his being appointed Chairman of the International Relations Council of ASCO, the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, was appointed Chairman of the International Relations Council of the ASCO, American Society of Clinical Oncology, in June. This appointment is for a three year period and is carried out on a voluntary basis. Prof. Robinson, an oncologist by profession, served as the Director of the Oncology Institute at Rambam Health Care Campus and served in the past as Chairman of the International Union Against Cancer UICC. The American Society of Clinical Oncology is a registered association uniting about 25,000 oncologists around the world. We also extend our congratulations to Prof. Robinson on his appointment as a member of the UICC Appointments Committee. ICA employees and volunteers congratulate Vice Chairman of the ICA, Mr. Leon Recanati on receiving "the Volunteer Industrialist Award" from the President of the Manufacturers Association of Israel for voluntary work as an Industrialist who contributed significantly to education and for his faith in the young generation, out of his sense of responsibility. The award was presented to him by Shraga Brosh, President of the Israel Manufacturers Association, Yoav Chelouche, Chairman of the "Taasiyeda" Educational Non-Profit Association and Aviva Mishael, Director General of the "Taasiyeda" Educational Non-Profit Association. Leon Recanati Vice Chairman, Israel Cancer Association 5

4 Benjamin Gaon Former President, Israel Cancer Association Benjamin (Benny) David Gaon (11 February May 2008) was born in Jerusalem, the son of Moshe David Gaon and Sara (Hakim) Gaon, brother to three siblings: Yigal, Klila Armon and Yehoram. Following his military service and two years in the career army, Gaon was discharged from the IDF with the rank of Master Sergeant. In the 60th he worked as an electrician in the "Hatarnegolim" band along with his brother the famous singer Yehoram Gaon who sang in the band. Subsequently, he worked as a service manager at Electra company. In 1962 he was appointed Marketing Dept. Director of Air Conditioners and after he climbed the corporate ladder, he assumed the position of Managing Director of Tadiran Consumer Products. Gaon studied Business Administration in Geneva. In 1988 the Secretary General of the Israeli Trade Union-Histadrut, Israel Keisar, offered him the job of Chief Executive of Koor Industries, which teetered on the edge of financial collapse. Gaon, who succeeded in rehabilitating Koor, and garnered praise from the Israeli business world, served in the position of CEO until 1998, when he resigned and established B. Gaon Holdings. 6 Benny agreed to assume the position of ICA President after great hesitation and doubt. He admitted in his books as well that he always made sure to skip the articles dealing with cancer. He, like many others, had a strong aversion to the subject and to the disease. Only after he began collaborating with the ICA, as Chairman of the Annual "Doorknock" Fundraising Campaign in 1993, while he was CEO of Koor, did he come to learn of ICA's numerous activities, and in turn, understood the importance of the fight against cancer to save lives. Benny enlisted his services, with typical "bulldozer" qualities, and his first contribution was to provide financial assistance for the purchase of the "Michal" Mobile Mammography vehicle, which provided female residents of the periphery and economically disadvantaged women with the significant opportunity to undergo mammography screening close to home. In view of his great success in this position and the warm and exceptional relationship which formed that year between ICA and Benny of blessed memory, he was appointed President of the ICA in Ever since then, and up to the very last moment, he devoted all his energy and time to promote the ICA objectives and considered his job an imperative mission of the highest order. Seven years later, he himself contracted kidney cancer. In 1997 he published his first book "Only those who dare win" in which he devoted a special chapter to the cancer that struck him twice and which he beat, and emphasized the importance of coping with the disease out in the open. He fought the disease with great gallantry. One needs great courage and emotional strength to expose the details of one`s disease in public. Benny did so, because he thought that it was important to spread the message that the chances for recovery increase when the disease is early detected. He felt that

5 it was important that the healthy population be aware of the critical importance of early detection testing. He wanted the public to recognize the achievements in coping with the disease, and that Israeli medicine and the outstanding physicians who treated him increase the chances and hope of overcoming cancer. This year, cancer struck him for the third time. This time, the disease took the upper hand and he died on the 10th of May, 2008, at the age of 73. He was buried in the Moshav Halevi cemetery, in Emek Hefer, and left a wife, three sons and a daughter. One of his sons is the strategic advisor Moshe Gaon, who was appointed Chairman of B. Gaon Holdings founded by his father. Aside from his position as ICA President, Benny Gaon also served as Chairman of the America-Israel Friendship League and won many awards for his numerous activities in Israeli economy, such as the President s Award on behalf of the Manufacturers Association of Israel and the Jerusalem Shield on behalf of the Prime Minister, Jerusalem s Mayor and the International Forum for United Jerusalem. The Israel Cancer Association mourns the passing of its President Mr. Benny Gaon of blessed memory, and extends its condolences to the Gaon family on his untimely demise. We have lost a dear friend and brave advocate. His untimely passing further emphasizes the need to continue the fight against the disease all the more forcefully. 7

6 Budget Distribution for ICA Fight against Cancer Medical and Social Services 9,160 Research, Data Collection & Followup and Clinical Protocols 4,750 31% 9% Projected New Programs 1,312 17% 24% 2% 9% Organization, Administration and Branch Offices (over 70 branches throughout Israel) 5,057 6% 2% Equipment and Construction 3,320 Professional Training 1,200 Rehabilitation and Welfare (including Hospice-care, Cancer Patient Hostel and Support Centers for patients and survivors) 17,087 Public Education and Information, Prevention and Early Detection Programs and Media Campaigns 13,085 8 Appropriations In NIS (in thousands) Medical and Social Services 9, Research, Data Collection & Follow-up and Clinical Protocols 4,750 9 Rehabilitation and Welfare (including Hospice-care, Cancer Patient Hostel and Support Centers for patients and survivors) Public Education and Information, Prevention and Early Detection Programs and Media Campaigns 17, , Professional Training 1,200 2 Equipment and Construction 3,320 6 Organization, Administration and Branch Offices (over 70 branches throughout Israel) 5,057 9 Projected New Programs 1,312 2 Total Appropriations 54, Percentage

7 Medical Services Supplementary Hospital Services and Financing Nursing and Psychosocial Personnel In aspiring to provide comprehensive multidisciplinary care to cancer patients in hospitals and in the community, the ICA assists in funding supplementary services and additional targeted personnel posts in special programs. ICA policy is to finance these services and posts for a limited time of several years - until their effectiveness has been sufficiently established. Upon the completion of this period of time, the institutions running these programs assume financial responsibility. Today, thanks to this tremendous initiative and investment, cancer patients benefit from a wide and diverse range of services provided by trained staff and comprehensive care is upgraded in the network of oncology institutes. Breast Cancer Treatment Coordinators - The ICA continues to finance special posts for nurses and social workers, working as breast cancer care treatment coordinators who navigate the patients during all stages of diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. The project's goal is to accompany the breast cancer patient throughout the treatment process, and to provide her with information, support and assistance, thereby significantly easing the burden of coping with the disease. This service is currently provided in 15 centers nationwide. Others centers have already adopted this service and the ICA continues to update personnel. Thanks to the ICA there is a network of professionals who are in constant professional contact on the national level for the welfare of breast cancer patients. The National Umbilical Cord Blood Bank - The Bank was established as a joint venture of the Magen David Adom Blood Service, the Wolfson Medical Center and the Hadassah Medical Organization, with funding from a munificent donation provided by the Friends of the ICA in London, headed by Ms. Vered Aaron. The service is operated by the Magen David Adom Blood Service, as part of its National Umbilical Cord Blood Donation Program, in memory of Natalie Shaya of blessed memory, with support from the ICA. As part of this project, a freezer was purchased for preserving umbilical cord blood and a lab technician post is being financed. The delivery rooms of the Wolfson Medical Center, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center and the Red Crescent Medical Center in East Jerusalem, serve as umbilical cord blood collection centers. Hadassah Medical Center performs the tissue-typing tests. Welfare Service Programs The ICA continues to finance posts for social workers at the following medical centers: Schneider Children s Medical Center of Israel, Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Campus, Meir Medical Center, Wolfson Medical Center, Western Galilee Nahariya State Hospital, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Ha'emek Medical Center, Bnei Zion Medical Center, Poriya Hospital, Clalit Healthcare Services, Laniado Hospital Netanaya, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Me'uhedet Healthcare Fund, Hadassah Mt. Scopus Medical Center, Hadassah Ein Karem Medical Center, Holy Family Hospital of Nazareth, Barzilai Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus and the Ziv Medical Center in Safed. 9

8 medical centers: Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Ha'emek Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, Carmel Medical Center. 10 Psychological Services The ICA continues to finance the employment of psychologists in oncology institutes at Hadassah Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Campus, the Western Galilee Hospital Nahariya and at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. Nursing Services The ICA finances posts for stoma care nurses, palliative care nurses, and nurses who are Bone Marrow Transplant Coordinators at the following hospitals: Kaplan Medical Center, the Western Galilee Hospital Nahariya State Hospital, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, Assaf Harofe Medical Center, Clalit Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Hadassah Medical Center, Mt. Scopus, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, Holy Family Hospital of Nazareth, Rambam Health Care Campus, Upper Galilee Hospice, Nof Hadar Haifa. Dietary Services The ICA continues to support dietary services at the following Bone Marrow Transplant The ICA continues to finance the necessary professional posts for the complicated treatment of self bone marrow transplants and bone marrow transplants from a donor in child cancer patients at the Pediatric Oncology Center at the Schneider Children's Medical Center, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital. The unit's operation has been financed by the ICA since its inception as have the personnel and training. Additionally, assistance has been provided to Pediatric Oncology wards at: Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, and Rambam Health Care Campus - where the Pediatric Oncology Ward was set up with assistance from the ICA. Additionally, the ICA funds the necessary professional staff. Palliative Care Programs Supports Advanced Stage Cancer Patients - The ICA continues to support medical care programs combining palliative care and psychosocial nursing care, provided by professionally trained staff. These care programs encompass hospices and home hospice care which is provided at the hospice at Sheba Medical Center Tel Hashomer, set up with assistance from the ICA. These programs operate in medical centers and community clinics throughout the country.

9 ICA Supported Medical Institutions Assaf Harofe Medical Center Tzrifin: Oncology Department, Breast Health Care Institute, Gastroenterology Institute, Nursing Services, Psychological Services. Assouta Medical Center Tel Aviv: Surgery and Clinics: Nursing services. Barzilai Medical Center Ashkelon: Oncology Unit, Social Services. Bnei Zion Medical Center Haifa: Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Social Services. Carmel Medical Center Haifa: Hematological Institute, Counseling Clinic for Families at High Risk, Social Services. Clalit Health Care Services: Nursing Services, Social Services, Nurse Call Center-Head Office and in the following districts: Central Region, Northern Region, Haifa and the Western Galilee, Southern Region, Dan-Petah Tikva, Jerusalem. Clalit Health Care Services, Linn Clinic - Haifa: Oncology Institute, Zevulun Medical Center. Clalit Health Care Services - Haifa Regional Clinic: Home Care Unit. Ha'amakim Hospice: Social Services. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem: Oncology Ward, Pediatric Oncology Care Unit, Surgical Complex, Bone Marrow Transplant Dept., Tissue Typing Unit, Hematology Ward, Neuro-oncology Unit, Breast Care Clinic, Social Services, Nursing Services. Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem: Hospice, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Social Services, Nursing Services. Ha'emek Medical Center Afula: Oncology Unit, Nutrition Services, Women's Dept., Social Services. Hospice Upper Galilee. Kaplan Medical Center Rehovot: Oncology Unit, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer. Laniado Hospital - Netanya: Social Services. Maccabi Healthcare Services Clinics: Northern, Hashfela (Coastal Plain) Sharon, Negev and Jerusalem Regional Clinics: Nursing Services. Meir Medical Center Kfar Saba: Breast Health Care Center, Social Services. Meuchedet Healthcare Fund: Social Services Nahariya Hospital: Oncology Unit, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Nursing Services, Social Services Nof Hadar, Haifa: Hospice. Poriyah Hospital Tiberias: Oncology Institute, Gastroenterological Institute, Social Services. Rabin Medical Center, Belinson Campus Petah Tikva: Oncology Complex, Hemato-oncology Department, Urology Institute, Gastro Institute, Social Services. Rabin Medical Center, Golda Campus Petah Tikva: Oncology Unit, Nursing Services. Rambam Health Care Campus Haifa: Oncology Institute, Hematology Institute, Pediatric Hematooncology Department, Bone Marrow Transplant Department, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Neuro-oncology Dept., Nursing Services, Social Services. Ziv Medical Center Safed: Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Oncology Unit, Social Services. Schneider Children s Medical Center Petah Tikva: Pediatric Hemato-oncology Department, Nursing Services, Social Services. Shaare Zedek Medical Center Jerusalem: Oncology Unit, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Hemato-oncology Dept., Dietary Services, Nursing Services, Social Services. Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer Ramat Gan: Oncology Institute, Pediatric Hemato-oncology Department. Sir Charles Clore Hostel Givatayim. Soroka Medical Center Beer Sheva: Oncology Department, Nursing Services. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Tel Aviv: Oncology Insitute, Gastroenterology Institute, Orthopedic Oncology Unit, Pediatric Hemato-oncology Department, Breast Health Care Center, Hematology Department, Pain Unit, Gyneco-oncology Clinic, Oncology Day Care Center, Social Services, Nursing Services. The Holy Family Hospital Nazareth: Breast Health Care Center, Social Services, Nursing Services. Wolfson Medical Center Holon: Oncology Unit, Early Detection Unit for Breast Cancer, Hematology Institute, Nutrition and Dietary Services, Gynecooncology Unit, Social Services. 11

10 12 New Publications "Being a parent and coping with cancer" a guide booklet for participants in workshops for parents who have cancer This guide booklet was written by Dr. Michal Braun, of the Psycho-oncology Unit at the Sharett Institute, Hadassah Ein Karem, and Dr. Ilanit Hasson Ohayon of the Psychology Dept. at Bar-Ilan University, who lead workshops for parents who have cancer, which are designed to assist parents in coping with their children during their treatments and all that involve. New Book: Hereditary Colorectal Cancer With financial assistance in the form of a generous donation provided by the Katzman family, Prof. Paul Rozen, Diagnosis and Prevention of Malignant Diseases of the Digestive System Services Consultant at Rabin Medical Center and Tel Aviv Medical Center, along Inbal Keidear, Genetic Consultant at the Rafael Recanati Genetics Institute of Rabin Medical Center, initiated the English-Hebrew translation of this enriching and professional book, which was written by researchers and physicians from around the world as a tool that would provide answers to many questions on familial colorectal cancer. Public Information and Education The ICA invests tremendous efforts and huge resources in promoting public education on cancer diseases, and particularly the possibilities for prevention and early detection of those prevalent cancers that may be prevented or diagnosed at early stages. The information activity encompasses extensive use of the media, with an emphasis on unique sectors of the population, generating media campaigns, publication of informative material distributed in hundreds of thousands of copies in Hebrew, Arabic and Russian, organizing seminars and conferences, training workshops, lectures and professional training sessions. These diverse information activities are conducted in different settings such as schools, community centers, workplaces, health care funds, IDF (Israel Defense Forces) military bases, ICA branch offices, and other locations. Additionally, the ICA operates a special tele-information service - Telemeida, which operates in Hebrew, Arabic and Russian. This service provides information on all aspects of cancer and its prevention. Additionally, there is a resource center housing up-to-date professional literature and is linked to many databases, where one may receive assistance from highly skilled information specialists who are trained to search international computerized databanks and who are up to date on vital information for patients. Aiming to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality rates, the ICA invests special educational efforts on prevalent diseases which may be prevented or diagnosed at early stages. With this goal in mind, the ICA acts to heighten public awareness as to the importance of early detection of breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, early detection of skin cancer, preventing the harmful effects of smoking and of sun exposure. Additionally, the ICA endeavors to promote a healthy lifestyle that is needed to maintain an energy balance (avoiding obesity and conducting regular physical activity) research has proven that maintaining the energy balance may reduce the risk of contracting cancer diseases by more than 40%. Early Detection of Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignant disease in Israel. The ICA leads the battle against breast cancer on all fronts to reduce mortality rates and to assist breast cancer patients and their families in coping, recovering and getting back to normal life as quickly as possible. Breast Cancer Awareness Month October is officially designated as The International Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This particular month seeks to raise consciousness of the importance of early detection that can save lives, as well as to heighten awareness of numerous breast cancer patients on how to best cope with the disease. Thanks to the media exposure this subject has gained, the code of silence has been broken and many myths have been diffused. For over a decade now, the ICA has been initiating the implementation of activities marking this unique month in Israel.

11 "Illuminating in Pink" 2008 With pink floodlights, evoking the Pink Promise, the Cord Bridge at the entrance of Jerusalem was lit up in pink in October 2008, marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, under the auspices of Estée Lauder and in collaboration with the ICA. The aim of the festive event was to convey the message that early detection saves life. Other locations which were illuminated in pink throughout the globe, as part of the international venture to promote awareness were: the Taj Mahal in India, the Empire State Building in the United States, Niagra Falls in Ontario Canada, the Tokyo Tower in Japan, City Hall in Seoul Korea, the Opera Building in Sydney and many other sites. New Publications "Fatigue and Exhaustion in Cancer Patients" in Russian Media Campaign marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2007 A media campaign was held through all media channels regarding breast cancer. This campaign aimed to increase awareness about early detection of breast cancer and to promote mammography screening compliance. This goal is conveyed through the following message: "An early detection test for breast cancer can save your life. Reached 50? You should get checked". The campaign referred women to the Telemeida service or the website to receive an information booklet free of charge. Towards Awareness Month 2008, a new public service announcement was produced to inform women that a one time mammography screening test is not enough, and that they must be screened once every two years. This public service announcement was based on the statistics that 80% of women report having undergone a mammography screening test once in their lives, however only 65% actually undergo the test once every two years on a regular basis. New research studies distributed marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month As part of the ICA's educational efforts to increase breast cancer awareness, and the importance of early detection, the ICA distributed two new research studies. The first proved that breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of contracting breast cancer even among women who gave birth to their first born at an advanced age and are at higher risk of contracting the disease. The second study revealed that Jewish females of Eastern/Western European descent and Iraqi descent have identical genetic mutations which cause about 10% of breast cancer cases. Furthermore, it emerged that gene mutation "Look Good Feel Better" Guide for Men The ICA published a separate and unique guide for men that is similar to the "Look Good Feel Better" guide for women that was recently published. The guide covers all the types of treatments and side effects that may have an impact on the image and external appearance of a cancer patient and suggests various coping methods. Doron Shefer, a famous basketball player who recovered from cancer, granted the ICA permission to use his photo on the booklet cover. 13

12 New Publications Danny at the Radiation Institute Booklet two guide booklets for children receiving radiation therapy to treat various areas of the body as well as the head area (brain) Sara Gardin, a radiation nurse at the Rabin Medical Center and a member of ICA update committee, initiated the publication of two special booklets for children undergoing radiation treatment at various medical centers. The booklets were published under the auspices of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. as part of the "Roche lends a hand to patients" project. The booklet is illustrated by Haya Yaniv and the following staff of Schneider Children's hospital provided professional and creative consultation: Ilana Buchwal, Head Nurse, Orna Magides, Yehudit Shalev and Shani Treistar art therapists, and Naomi Dotan, a clinical Child Psychologist. The booklets were written in a child-friendly manner, with illustrations and full of color, and soon they will also be published in Arabic and in Russian. carriers and women who are not carriers, have the same chances of recovery. New Information Campaign for the Early Detection of Breast Cancer: "Someone who loves you reminds you to get yourself checked" Marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Information and Education Dept. launched a new campaign, "Pink Postcards", which asked post offices` customers throughout Israel to send a personal pink postcard to someone that they love (mother, grandmother, wife, girlfriend), reminding her of the importance of the early detection of breast cancer, and encouraging her to go and get herself checked. The postcard was sent free of charge to recipients. The information campaign was held in collaboration with the ICA, Israel Postal Authority, and courtesy of Novartis Oncology. The opening ceremony was held in Tel Aviv post office, with Miri Ziv, ICA Director General in attendance, as well as Israel Post CEO, Avi Hochman, and businessperson and famous model Shelly Gafni who sent the first postcard of the "Pink Postcards" campaign. Michal Mobile Mammography Unit continues its journey across the country The Mobile Mammography Unit travels through remote towns and among sectors of the population with a relatively low screening compliance rate. The unit aims to bridge the gaps in potentially life-saving screening compliance among women residing in development towns, new immigrants, women in Arab villages, and others. Each city and town has the mobile mammography unit for a few days or weeks, depending on the number of women in leach location. (for more information please see the "Early Detection" Chapter). Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer 14 Smoke Free Home New Sticker A new sticker that was produced this year, inviting children and parents to hang it up in their home and declare themselves as a "smoke free" family unit Shelly Gafni launched the campaign along with Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, and Avi Hochman, Israel Post CEO Press Conference Marking Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, and Miri Ziv, ICA Director General announced the opening of the "colorectal Cancer Awareness Month 2008" at a press conference held in March in Israel, concurrent to the global awareness month. During this awareness month, ICA held a campaign in media, focusing on the importance of early detection as a lifesaver, and also held a seminar free of charge for patients and their families at the end of

13 the month (for more information please see the "Rehabilitation and Welfare" Chapter). Colorectal cancer is the second most prevalent tumor in Israel and appears at a similar rate both in men and women, particularly at the age of 50 and up. The morality rate from the disease is identical to that of lung cancer and is higher than the breast cancer mortality rate Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, appealed to the media representatives and requested their assistance in increasing awareness, mainly among the healthy population, regarding the fact that colorectal cancer may be prevented by maintaining the proper weight, the proper diet, and engaging in physical exercise. As opposed to many other types of cancer, in colorectal cancer there is a 100% chance of preventing the disease. "Unfortunately, according to statistics, a mere 30% of the general population over the age of 50 has undergone an early detection test according to recommendations. Dr. Yehiel Ziv, Chairman of the Israel Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery, the Surgical Division, Assaf Harofe Medical Center Tzrifin, reminded the public of which symptoms may indicate colorectal cancer: fecal occult blood, anemia (lack of blood), change in intestinal activity, stomach aches that don't go away, significant, involuntary weight loss. All these signs require immediate medical attention. Furthermore, Dr. Ziv reported techniques and innovations in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Dr. Ziv requested that the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Finance to provide colorectal cancer early detection tests to every person over 50 who is interested in this option and called upon the public to increase its compliance to undergo fecal occult blood tests that are currently included in the health basket. A "Sephardic Gene" (gene of Middle Eastern/Oriental origin) that increases the risk of colorectal cancer has been found in Israel A new Israeli research study was revealed at this press conference. This study discovered a rare genetic mutation that increases the risk of contracting colorectal cancer % of colorectal cancer cases are currently related to genetic hereditary factors. Among family members of those who have contracted colorectal cancer, the risk of emergence of the disease increases by two-threefold as compared to the general population. The study, led by Prof. Nadir Arber, Director of the Cancer Prevention Center at the Tel Aviv Medical Center, and supported by the ICA, examined whether the genes causing the disease may be detected in the blood of those same family members. In the event that these genes are indeed detected, the condition of gene carriers may be monitored, and medicinal treatment may be offered to prevent the emergence of the disease. New Publications This is how your contribution contributes booklet for donors in Arabic Booklet for the New Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Activity Support Center at Beit Rozenfeld The new and spacious Activity and Support Center was inaugurated at the ICA Haifa Branch several months ago. Marking its opening, Judy Raviner, Ariela Litvitz and the rest of the branch staff initiated the publication of a new and special booklet inviting cancer patients and their families to use the support services and take advantage of the activities offered. 15

14 New Publications The hookah kills just like a cigarette new poster In order to increase awareness of the harmful effects of hookah smoking, which is prevalent among young people and youth, the ICA published a new poster warning against the harmful effects of hookah smoking. The poster was designed in black with the hookah smoke rising in white, and is captioned: "there are facts you can't hide the hookah kills just like a cigarette". ICA media campaign to increase awareness of the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer: "In real life there isn't always a caution light" Marking Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, the ICA initiated a media campaign to increase awareness of the importance of early detection of colorectal cancer and to motivate the general population to get checked and to obtain information about the disease, with the target audience being every one over 50. The campaign was led by the following slogan: "In real life there isn't always a caution light. If you've reached the age of 50- go get yourself tested!" The campaign focuses this time on a woman and it is a sequel to the previous campaign starring a male, in order to refute the erroneous view that this is a disease that mainly strikes men. The campaign included a TV clip that was broadcast on channels 1, 2, and 10 and the ICA also saw to its publication through newspaper ads, and radio public service announcements. Gitam BBDO SOHO, volunteered its services to lead this campaign, with well known actress, Yona Elian, volunteering the moderating. Open Line on Galei Tzahal Radio Station marking Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month In early March the Galei Tzahal military radio station hosted an open line on the subject of colorectal cancer, with Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, participating, as well as Dr. Yehiel Ziv, Chairman of the Israel Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Surgical Division, Assaf Harofe Medical Center, and Prof. Dan Edreka, Director of the Digestive System Tumors Unit, Oncology Center, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. The panel answered listeners' questions regarding prevention, diagnostic and treatment methods for the disease. The Battle against Smoking 16 "Cancer isn't an animal" new children's book A new children's book was written and published thanks to the commendable initiative of two young women, mothers of young children who contracted cancer and survived. Aviva Shatzberg, an educator, and specialist in integrating the arts in education, was in charge of the writing, and artist Talya Zion Atiya's illustrations adorn the book. The book shows the perspective of the child whose mother has contracted cancer, throughout all stages of diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and recovery. The book was published courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. as part of the "Roche lends a hand to patients" project. The ICA continues to endeavor on all fronts to reduce the smoking rate and mitigate its harmful effects in Israel. The bill for the prevention of smoking in public places and second-hand smoking proposed by MK Gilad Arden was passed on the second and third reading, and came into effect in November This bill motivated the revolution in the enforcement of the prohibition against smoking in public places in the hopes of imitating the situation prevailing in some states in the United States, England and Ireland and that will soon take effect in most

15 European countries. This bill imposes fines on business owners (including bar owners) whose customers smoke against the law, and prohibits placing ashtrays in public places in spots that were not allocated as separate smoking areas. The municipal authorities are also obligated to provide the telephone number to call an inspector if need be. The ICA supports and assisted in passing the bill. Research studies have shown that legislation banning smoking in public places directly leads to the mitigation of the harmful effects of smoking. The increase in the fine sum and its transfer to business owners also constitutes a deterrent and makes business owners good will ambassadors on behalf of the law. Don't be passive: "Smoke detector" a complaint form for Israelis suffering from passive smoke is waiting at the ICA website The ICA has published a special report form for citizens who have suffered from second hand smoke in violation of the law. The form, structured according to the principles of the law, may be downloaded from the ICA website, filled out with the details relating to the violation of the law which has affected citizens - and sent to the relevant local authority. The form defines the problematic points according to the law, and will enable any citizen to indicate the violation of the law and send it to the local authority. Local authority details were also provided on the website. Public Complaints and Educational Activity on the Harmful Effects of Smoking In the wake of the coming into effect of the amendment to the Law Prohibiting Smoking and the "Smoke Detector" that was distributed by the ICA (see above), hundreds of inquiries and complaints from citizens concerning smoking in public places and workplaces in violation of the law were received at the ICA. Beyond the numerous verbal clarification conversations and written responses, following inquiries, letters of warning were sent to the relevant entities, under the auspices of the ICA, requesting to act in accordance with the law. As a result of these letters there has been a collaborative effort and informational material was sent to plants and other workplaces. The ICA launched a new media campaign to increase the awareness of the harmful effects of passive smoking: "Dear mom, think of what goes on in your child's body, when you smoke next to him" At the end of November, ICA launched a national information campaign among mothers to increase awareness of the harmful effects of passive smoking. The public information campaign was conducted under the slogan: "Dear mom, think of what goes on in your child's body, when you smoke next to him" and was produced by Gitam BBDO SOHO, the advertising agency that has volunteered its services for ICA's media campaigns for years. The campaign was made possible by Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd., leader of the project "Roche lends a hand to the patient". The clip accompanying the campaign features children in various locations in the kitchen, on their parents' bed and in the playground, while singing the popular children's song "Dear Mommy". Each one of the children at a certain point in the song begins to cough while singing. At the end of the clip, the following caption appears, accompanied by a voiceover: "Dear Mommy, when you smoke New Publications Patients coping with hair loss This is a new booklet containing information and coping methods for cancer patients suffering from hair loss. The booklet was translated and adapted based on information from the website of the British cancer organization, cancer backup, and was updated and tailored to Israeli needs. The booklet contains information about the effects of treatment on hair, the use of wigs, practical advice on treatments and what follows. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, and Orit Shapira, ICA Central Region Social Worker, provided professional consultation. Updates and innovations booklet on cancer patient nutritional support The cancer patient nutritional support booklet was updated and expanded. The booklet contains extensive information regarding proper nutrition habits throughout the stages of the disease, tips and menus which assist in coping with side effects, information about the effects of various treatments on nutrition, food products for enrichment, tips on several recipes for enrichment and post-treatment nutrition recommendations. Yael Shpatz, a certified clinical dietician at the Oncology Institute at Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, assisted in updating and producing this booklet. 17

16 18 New Publications A colorful "Sun Smart" poster was produced at the outset of the summer vacation and summer season 2008 A new poster for children explaining sun safety rules designed by Studio Billet. Clore Hostel booklet new booklet in Arabic New Sticker "Smoking is Passé So Don't Even Try It" Sticker chosen to be part of ICA's wide variety of information materials in its unique collaborative endeavor with teen magazine "Ma'ariv Lano'ar". For more information please see the "Information and Education" Chapter. near him you inflict harm on him". The campaign lasted weeks and was broadcast on the TV channels and published in the newspapers.. The law has been passed: an end to smoking on IDF bases and at police stations The Knesset has passed the amendment to the Law Prohibiting Smoking in Public Places, initiated by MK Yoel Hasson, on the second and third reading. In the amendment it was established that prohibitions applying to smoking in public places will also apply from now on to IDF bases, Israel Police stations, the Israel Prison Service and other security facilities. According to the new law, it will be forbidden to smoke in classrooms at IDF military bases, in mess halls, in lecture halls, and in closed quarters that constitute public areas. A solider may smoke in his/her sleeping quarters. Colleague Seminar As in past years, the ICA worked in collaboration with the Ministry of Education's School Psychology Services on a unique training program for youth in schools and junior high schools. As part of this training program, outstanding and socially active students are selected and trained to serve as social opinion leaders and to conduct activities on smoking prevention. The project was implemented in dozens of schools around the country and this year over 1,500 colleagues were trained. "Breathing Healthy Air" Learning Centers and School Program Development As in previous years, the ICA has acquired, this year as well, twenty learning centers that conduct hands-on information activity regarding smoking and its harmful effects, cigarette advertising, peer pressure and more. The kits are distributed among several schools each year, and enable hundreds and thousands of pupils to take part in this learning experience. These kits are used by colleagues in youth activity. Likewise, the ICA initiated, wrote and produced programs and training guides geared toward professional teams. As part of the public information campaign, the ICA in association with the Gitam BBDO SOHO distributed children's plastic cups full of simulated cigarette butts throughout the streets of Tel Aviv

17 Photography: Flash 90 Additional Updated Publications Questions and answers about breast cancer in Arabic Rights and services for cancer patients edition "I'm also for smoke free air" a special celebrity game for smoke free air and maintaining a healthy lifestyle: TV stars and performers vs. National League soccer players In early February, a special soccer game was held with TV stars and performers who competed against national league football players. The event was held to increase awareness of the importance of smoke free air and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and took Place at Goal Time in Tel Aviv. At the end of the game, the players received certificates of appreciation from the ICA and medals that were prepared specially for the event by the Football Players Association. Thanks to the publicity efforts, the event garnered unprecedented media exposure and gained a very positive response. Breast cancer in Hebrew 19

18 20 Additional Updated Publications Catalogue of ICA publications Cancer and Environment booklet Sun Smart "How to" guide The Israel Council for the Prevention of Smoking The Israel Council for the Prevention of Smoking is a coalition of entities engaged in the subject of smoking, to relay information, coordinate activities and concert efforts to reduce the rate of smoking and its harmful effects in Israel. Among the Council members are the Ministry of Health, the ICA, the healthcare funds, the Ministry of Education and IDF. Advocate Amos Hausner heads the Council, and the ICA Information and education Dept. coordinates its activity. Thanks to its activity among Knesset members, the Council succeeded in thwarting a bill which purported to rescind the prohibition of smoking in public places and to permit smoking in some places of business. Smoking Cessation Workshops As part of the ICA's activity to reduce smoking, several Smoking Cessation Workshops have opened at Beit Mati in memory of Matilde Recanati, the ICA head office in Givatayim. The participants undergo group and behavioral therapy, in coordination with a family physician and under the supervision of the workshop moderator, they receive the appropriate drugs or nicotine substitutes. The workshop is delivered by Mr. Amos Tafla, a psychologist and expert on smoking cessation, who accompanies and guides the participants in the smoking cessation process. Each workshop consists of 10 two-hours sessions. Israel Network of Healthy Cities The ICA is a member of the Israel Network of Healthy Cities which has been active since 1990 in promoting a "Health for All" policy, which will have an impact on the general population in terms of quality of life and environment, urban planning and more. The "Smoke Free City" model has been recently integrated and implemented in order to assist decisions makers in the local authorities to adopt and realize the vision of a "Smoke Free City", one in which the local authority is committed to reducing smoking rates, and to enforcing the prohibition against smoking in public places, and more. The ICA has begun accompanying several cities and local authorities in this process, including Kfar Saba, Hacarmel City (Dalia/Usafiya) and Kiryat Sefer/Modi'in Illit. No Tobacco Day As every year and as part of the International 'No Tobacco Day' held in all World Health Organization (WHO) member countries since 1987, Israel marked this day on May 31st. This unique day seeks to place the smoking problem on the global agenda, increase awareness as to the dangers involved in tobacco smoking and passive smoking, expand activities aimed at fighting the smoking plague, to stand up for our right to a healthy life and to protect the future generation. This year "No Tobacco Day" focused on young people and a "tobacco-free youth". The ICA collaborated with the WHO to prohibit all types of advertising, promotion and sponsoring of tobacco products. New study indicates that smoking increases the risk of contracting lymph gland cancer A new study that was published as part of "No Tobacco Day" examined the link between smoking and lymph gland cancer (lymphoma) in its various forms. The study was conducted by investigators from several universities across

19 Europe. The researchers used a large database that was compiled using a questionnaire about cancer and lifestyle. About 500,000 subjects participated in the research at 23 different medical centers in 10 European countries. The study revealed that smoking increases the risk of contracting Hodgkin's lymphoma by twofold both in women and men alike. This is the first study in the world which has linked smoking with lymph gland cancer, in addition to other types of cancers, which have already been proven to be caused by smoking. The research study was published in the May edition of the American Journal of Epidemiology. between students, from several Israeli schools, marking "No Tobacco Day", took place this year. The students engaged in the subject of smoking prevention, conducted research studies or prepared presentations on smoking. The competition was held and financed by the ICA, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education - the Psychological Consultative Service (SHEFI) - and the Israel Lung Disease and Emphysema League. Additional Updated Publications New gene affects the number of cigarettes smokers smoke A new research study has revealed a link between genetics and the number of cigarettes people smoke. A strong link between the detected gene and the smoker's dependency on nicotine emerged in this study. The investigation of the link between lung cancer morbidity and peripheral vascular disease and the gene identified among smokers also revealed a strong link between the two. Upon finding the link between the gene and nicotine dependency, the research investigators emphasized that it is important to keep in mind that the human genome not only affects how people react to their environment, but also the tendency to seek or avoid that same environment. The research study was conducted by scientists from Europe, New Zealand, and the United States and was published in the scientific journal Nature in the April 2008 edition. Annual Competition between Schools on the Subject of Smoking As in previous years, the national competition Alcohol consumption and cancer Early detection of breast cancer 21

20 22 Additional Updated Publications Guide to purchasing a prosthesis and swimwear (for breast) Everything you wanted to know about cancer but were afraid to ask Lymphedema or swollen limb "Hospitals in Nazareth Smoke Free" As part of the "Smoke Free Northern District" project, a press conference was held at the end of May at the "Holy Family" Hospital in Nazareth, with Engineer Ramez Jaraisi Nazareth's Mayor in attendance, as well as Michal Cohen-Dar the Ministry of Health's Northern District Physician, Bashara Bsharat Director of Nazareth Hospital, Selim Nahla Director of the French Hospital, Ibrahim Harbaji Director of the Holy Family Hospital, and Mr. Faten Ghattas ICA Activity Director in Arab Society. At the press conference held to promote the health of Nazareth's population, the participants signed a special agreement to keep the hospitals smoke free. "No Tobacco Day" at the Central Bus Station in Tel Aviv The new central bus station, the ICA and the municipal supervision of the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Jaffa, joined forces to increase awareness as to the harmful effects of smoking on International "No Tobacco Day". The collaboration was formed in order to heighten awareness regarding the harmful effects of smoking, to promote a healthy lifestyle and to convey a clear message that the new Tel Aviv Central Bus Station is a smoke free location. The joint project that lasted several days included the set up of ICA information booths throughout the bus station, where information sheets and stickers were distributed to travelers frequenting the station. Contemporaneously, public service announcements about the harmful effects of smoking were also displayed on a large screen, and a jingle was aired throughout the bus station and posters were set up. Concurrent with the information activity, there were sports classes open to the public, geared towards promoting a healthy lifestyle. A "throw that cigarette away" campaign was also held and the public information representative of the central bus station was mingling with the public and requesting that smokers throw way their packs of cigarettes into the garbage. Those who gave up their pack of cigarettes received bonuses and gifts from different bus station stores who support a smoke free bus station. "No Tobacco Day": "Smoking wrinkles are the least of your problems. Smoking kills" Campaign in women's bathrooms at nightclubs The law forbidding smoking in public places came into effect about half a year prior to"no Tobacco Day", however despite progress made in restaurants and cafes, there is still much to be improved in the nightclub scene in Israel. Hence, ICA decided that the clubbers are to be addressed, in a place everyone frequents, in addition to the regular information activity against smoking in schools, in the media, at conferences and more. This year, nightclubs were the focus. The public information campaign addressed young women, soldiers or even youth with an ad featuring a young, beautiful and sharply dressed women, who is "wrinkled" and the message is: "Smoking wrinkles are the least of your problems. Smoking kills". These ads appeared in women's washrooms in over 200 leading nightclubs, cafes and bars throughout Israel courtesy of "Le'omek Hatoda'a" (penetrating consciousness) company. The ad was designed on a volunteer basis by Gitam BBDO SOHO advertising agency. Contemporaneously, ads warning that smoking can cause impotency were posted in men's washrooms. These ads join an extensive ICA publicity campaign that runs throughout the year, and is expanded

21 a campaign to promote awareness among teens as to the harmful effects of smoking. As part of the campaign, a special competition was held to find a slogan for a new antismoking sticker. Each suggestion that was received awarded the senders with an ICA "Life is beautiful without smoking" sticker and the top three winners were awarded valuable prizes. Ma'ariv Lano'ar publicized the slogan that was selected "Smoking is passé so don't even try it" and ICA issued and distributed the sticker among the general population. Additional Updated Publications Getting back to normal life with urostoma (urinary stoma) on "No Tobacco Day", staring May 31st. The ICA set up information booths nationwide on this day, and held information activities at schools and launched an advocacy campaign through all media channels. Unique Collaboration between ICA Information and Education Dept. and Ma'ariv Lano'ar Teen Magazine In early June, the teen popular magazine "Ma'ariv Lano'ar" collaborated with the ICA Information and Education Dept. and launched ICA's "The Hookah" campaign produced by Gitam BBDO SOHO won first place in the PSA Category in Reel Lives: Cancer Chronicles Film Festival organized by the UICC (International Union against Cancer) "The Hookah" ICA PSA produced by BBDO SOHO, won first place at "Reel Lives: Cancer Chronicles Film Festival" organized by the UICC. The winning clip was chosen Best PSA at the First Ever International Documentary Film Festival on Cancer held in Switzerland as part of the annual UICC Conference (for further details about the conference please see the "International Conferences" Chapter). The "Hookah kills like a cigarette" campaign aimed to increase awareness among a target audience consisting of young people between the ages of 12 and 18 who believe that the hookah is harmless, unlike the cigarette, and that it doesn t cause cancer. Many studies in this field have shown that this perception Radiotherapy to the breast area 23

22 Additional Updated Publications Knowing more about throat cancer Knowing more about metastastic cancer of an unknown source is erroneous and hookah smoking impairs one's health and may cause cancer just like a cigarette. The winning clip features a simulated hookah emitting smoke forming letters that create the words "banana", "apple", "s trawberr y", " c h e r r y " assorted hookah flavors. Then a final transparency appears and the announcer asks "Which flavour would you like your cancer to be? - The hookah kills like a cigarette". Out of 250 clips and public service announcements that were presented, 33 made it to the finals, including 4 ICA public service announcements "Chips", "Basketball", "The Shadow" and "The Hookah" which claimed first prize in this category, and was hailed as "stylish and unique" by the panel of judges. Preventing Harmful Effects of the Sun and Early Detection of Skin Cancer Seminar for Health Promoters marking Skin Cancer Awareness Week ICA's Health Promoter, Ms. Noa Gal, initiated a National Seminar for Health Promoters which took place in mid-may at Beit Mati, ICA head office in Givatayim as Skin Cancer and Early Detection Awareness Week approached. Ms. Rivka Froehlich-Zeltzer, ICA Information and Education Dept. Director and Spokesperson, opened the seminar with an overview of ICA activity to promote awareness of the harmful effects of the sun and the importance of early detection. This was followed by lectures delivered by leading physicians who volunteer on ICA update committees. The seminar closed with an open panel discussion with the audience participating. 24 Knowing more about secondary liver cancer Some twenty years ago, the ICA began educational activities for the general population, with the aim of reducing the harmful effects of the sun and increasing awareness as to the importance of early detection. As part of this program, for the past 17 years, a Skin Cancer- Prevention and Early Detection Awareness Week has been held annually for the general public and children, at the beginning of each summer, alongside educational activities, including seminars, health awareness days and more.

23 Press conference marking the launch of "Skin Cancer and Early Detection Awareness Week" The 17th Annual Skin Cancer Awareness Week took place in mid-june this year. Thanks to this campaign, the early detection rate of melanoma has increased, both among women and men. The awareness week includes a media campaign on skin cancer and its early detection, as well as a TV, radio and newspaper campaign, and the set up of information booths in central locations in various cities. In addition, over 300 early detection examination stations for skin cancer were opened across the country, in conjunction with all healthcare funds and with assistance from the Israel Association of Dermatology and the Israel Association of Plastic Surgery. Free examinations for the early detection of skin cancer were conducted at these stations regardless of healthcare fund membership, and information brochures were also distributed to the general population. During the press conference, a special ICA survey was revealed and new research studies were reported as were Israel National Cancer Registry statistics. Dr. Micha Bar-Hanna, Director of the National Cancer Registry of the Ministry of Health, cited that "in Israel 1,200 new patients are diagnosed annually as compared to 970 patients in previous years. The increase is mainly apparent in a prevalent disease among native Israeli women and men, who pay the price of 'sun bathing', a commonplace custom in their infancy years ago. Stability has been recorded among women and perhaps even a declining trend. This is indicative of heightened public awareness and alertness, concurrent with increased chances of a cure and recovery". Dr. Michal Lotem, Dermato-oncologist at the Oncology Institute at Hadassah Medical Center Jerusalem, reported a new vaccination aimed at preventing disease recurrence among melanoma patients with metastases, which was developed at the Hadassah medical Center in Jerusalem, with financial support from the ICA. The ministry of health, with the help of the ICA, issued new guidelines regarding the labeling of sunscreen products, their expiry date and their method of use. Additional Updated Publications Knowing more about stomach cancer Knowing more about chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, said: "This is the largest campaign that has been conducted in the health system, which combines forces in a unique way for the benefit of public health in Israel. This is a 17 year long tradition which significantly contributes to heighten awareness of the importance of early detection which is potentially life-saving. The collaborative effort is not something that is to be taken for granted in Israeli life, and I thank the healthcare funds and the hundreds of dermatologists and plastic surgeons who offer their services each year to achieve this important goal". New ICA Survey marking the opening of Skin Cancer, Preventing and Early Detection Awareness Week A new survey marking Skin Cancer Awareness Week, conducted by Market Watch Research Institute for the ICA among a representative sample of the Jewish Hebrew speaking population in Israel aged 18 and up, indicated a high awareness trend among the public regarding sun behavior, with the majority of the Israeli public (73%) indicating that it internalized the message that says health comes before a tan; this trend is particularly salient among year olds (86% of whom Knowing more about chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) 25

24 26 Additional Updated Publications Knowing more about primary liver cancer Knowing more about prostate cancer Knowing more about pancreatic cancer internalized this message). A minority of 5% indicated that they intend to tan a lot and as quickly as possible and 18% indicated that they intend to tan but only during safe hours before 10 am and after 4 pm. Additionally, it appeared that the Israeli public is more aware of the harmful effects of the sun than in the past. Israel Hadari and Asaf Dahan Twing Joint ICA-Jetix Children Channel campaign 'Gur and Och' Jetix stars led the campaign with a series of skits for children engaging in sun smart behavior Jetix Channel and the ICA launched a joint campaign, which included new comical skits written specially for children engaging in the subject of sun smart behavior. As part of the TV campaign, second humoristic skits were produced with content tailored specifically to Jetix's target audience, children between the ages of 6 to 14. These skits also referred viewers to the ICA kids internet website. The campaign aired as the summer vacation approached, and continued throughout the summer season. Also, various skits were aired on the Jetix website, and surfers were invited to score the funniest skit. Every viewer who gave scores received a "Sun Smart" sticker. This successful cooperative project has been implemented for the fifth consecutive year, with the aim of heightening awareness and changing sun behaviour among children. Sun Smart Campaign returns to the Children's Channel: ICA and the Children's Channel launched another campaign in the successful and effective sun smart series to increase children's awareness as to the harmful effects of the sun As part of this campaign, short and humoristic fillers were aired at the beginning of the summer on the Children's Channel and on the mini website, starring Hadar Levi. In each filler, Levi deals with sun exposure in situations taken from everyday life, while abiding by ICA rules for careful sun exposure such as wearing a hat, staying in the shade, wearing long sleeves, applying sunscreen lotion, wearing sunglasses and more. During the solution to the problem, the problematic situation becomes a situation in which Levi becomes "sun smart". The "sun smart" advocacy series is based on the principle of social marketing whereby the ICA conveys educational and informational messages relating to cancer prevention through the media, in a humoristic manner and in a language that "speaks" to children, that is acceptable to them and helps them connect with the messages. The series first aired on the children's Channel 16 years ago, and it is accompanied by educational activity at summer camps, schools and kindergartens, which is conducted by medical and public health students, with financial support from the ICA. Photography: Israel Hadari

25 The ICA marked Prostate Cancer Awareness Day in early September; prostate cancer is the most prevalent cancer among men in Israel. September saw this awareness day throughout the world in order to place prevention, early detection and treatment of prostate cancer on the public agenda. According to Ministry of Health National Cancer Registry statistics, about 2,500 mean are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year and 400 men die of the disease. The causes of prostate cancer are not fully known. However, it has emerged that men who have paternal relatives who have contracted the disease prior to the age of 70 have a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. There are additional factors that increase the risk of contracting prostate cancer, such as smoking, unhealthy diet, obesity and lack of physical exercise. Prostate cancer is common particularly among men over the age of 50 and its manifestations among younger men are less frequent. As opposed to other types of cancer, prostate cancer grows very slowly, and so, particularly among older people there might not be any symptoms. There are cases in which the cancer cells are in the prostate gland in the body and the tumor in the prostate can remain unchanged for a lengthy period. According to scientific evidence, about a third of men over the age of 50 and the majority of men over the age of 80 have cancerous cells in the prostate, however as mentioned, only among a small percentage of them does the disease affect life expectancy. As Prostate Cancer Awareness Day approached, the ICA launched a media campaign, including radio public service announcements and newspaper ads under the slogan "Would you rather die of shame?" coordinated by Gitam BBDO SOHO. Contemporaneously, the ICA conducted a seminar for prostate cancer patients and their spouses (for Prostate Cancer Awareness Day further information please see the "Rehabilitation and Welfare" Chapter), as well as lectures on prevention, early detection and treatment of prostate cancer, which were open to the general public and delivered free of charge at several ICA branches throughout the country, in conjunction with the Israel Urologists Association. New additional research studies have shown a link between lifestyle and prostate cancer Marking Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, the ICA published new research studies indicating and reinforcing the link between lifestyle and prostate cancer. For example, a new study conducted at the University of Athens in Greece established that work that entails physical activity reduces the risk of contracting prostate cancer. During the research 320 male subjects who contracted prostate caner were examined, and the scientists compared them to 246 healthy male subjects. The scientists found that among the men whose work entailed sitting such as office workers, teachers, public servants and people who work at other jobs that do not entail physical activity, were at a 30% higher risk of contracting prostate cancer, as opposed to men who work at a job involving physical activity such as construction workers, bakers, electricians and hairdressers. The inactive workers also have a 40% higher chance of suffering from a n e n l a r g e d prostate. T he research study was published in the September issue of the European Journal of Cancer Prevention. Additional Updated Publications Knowing more about bile duct cancer Radiotherapy to the prostate cancer Knowing more about cervical smears 27

26 28 Additional Updated Publications Knowing more about testicular cancer Knowing more about vaginal cancer The Book of Life booklet Additional Information Activities to Promote the Fight against Cancer Diseases New ICA campaign produced by Gitam BBDO SOHO to increase awareness of the importance of maintaining "energy balance" and healthy lifestyle The ICA launched a national media campaign, to increase public awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and "energy balance" (normal weight and physical exercises), in order to reduce the chances of contracting cancer. It is a known fact that one can prevent various cancers by adopting a healthier lifestyle. New research studies have shown that excess weight, a high-fat diet, a high calorie intake and little physical exercise, may increase the chances of contracting cancer diseases. Subsequent to these studies, the International Union against Cancer, UICC, announced that 40% of cancer cases may be prevented. Hence, the main message to the public is: maintain a normal BMI (body mass index), eat many fresh vegetables and fruits, engage in physical exercise on a regular basis, stop smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Through this campaign the ICA tried to motivate people to take action and to maintain their body's energy balance. At first, the clip which accompanies the campaign looks like a wanted ad for a TV reality show, with the titles appearing on screen like a TV promo, and the announcer in the background invites viewers to audition for the new ad. Requirements: people who are overweight, whose only sports activity is sitting in front of the TV, who drink alcohol excessively, are junk food addicts; smokers have an advantage (a hookah also counts). After presenting the requirements, the announcer asks: "Do you fulfill the requirements? You might be the next stars of the Israel Cancer Association's campaign. Want to reduce your risk of contracting cancer? please contact Telemeida" The campaign lasted weeks and was broadcast on TV channels and websites, appeared in the newspapers, and was aired on the radio. The campaign was conducted voluntarily by Gitam BBDO SOHO advertising agency, and Gil Komer volunteered the voiceover. Survey conducted as a result of ICA's "Healthy Lifestyle Campaign" establishes that 51% of Israelis will change their lifestyle It appears that the Israeli public is ready to change its lifestyle when it understands the risks involved in an unhealthy lifestyle. A new survey conducted by ICA, through the Geocartography Institute, establishes that 51% of Israelis asserted that they were persuaded to change their habits as a result of the ICA campaign. From the survey conducted following the campaign it emerged that about a third (34%) of the Israeli public was exposed to the ICA campaign. 71% of those exposed (constituting 24% of the general public) saw the campaign on TV. The percentage of those exposed to the campaign decreased with the increase in age, and it was relatively low among low wage earners (27%) and among religious and ultra-orthodox families (19%). 77% of Israelis who were exposed to the campaign could explain the ad's message. 54% of the public indicated that the message conveyed in the ICA information campaign regarding the link between lack of sports activity, obesity and alcohol consumption and the risk of contracting cancer was very reliable in their opinion. This rate was significantly high among the public that indicated that

27 they were exposed to the ad in an unaided manner, as compared to those who didn't see or hear the ad through the media channels (61% as compared to 50% respectively). As stated, 51% of the public indicated that the message conveyed sufficiently or highly motivates and convinces them to change their habits and lifestyle. Seminar on "Early Detection Saves Lives!" in Katzrin, Golan Heights The northern region branches of the ICA and the Northern Region Social Worker, Ariela Litvitz, initiated a special seminar on cancer awareness and importance of early detection - held for the public at large at the Katzrin branch. The seminar featured the following lectures: 'Cancer Awareness and Importance of Early Detection' delivered by Dr. Shnirer, head of the Oncology Institute at Poriyah Medical Center and 'Enlisting the Immune System in the Fight against Cancer' delivered by Dr. Gidi Gross, Head of the Department of Biotechnology at the Tel Hai Academic College and senior investigator in immunology at the Migel Research Institute. The ICA Information and Education Dept. assisted in publicizing this event in the local newspapers of the north. "We Are All Winners" special happening for increasing awareness of early detection and prevention of cancer held in Kiryat Shemona The Kiryat Shemona branch of the ICA initiated a special happening to increase awareness of the importance of early detection of cancer and the Information and Education Dept. assisted in running and publicizing the event in the local newspapers of the north. As part of this event, held in early June at Hagomeh Junction, information boots were installed in the Bodies gym club, and lectures were delivered on the harmful effects of smoking and uncontrolled sun exposure; arts and crafts activities were also held for children, a spinning marathon took place, and aerobics and body toning classes were given courtesy of Bodies gym club. Israel Cancer Association Services Special Seminar for Hebrew Telemeida staff A seminar for Telemeida volunteers, initiated and organized by Nurith Zin, head of Telemeida, was held in late January. About twenty volunteers attended the seminar and heard a fascinating lecture delivered on breast reconstruction and breast retaining surgery by Dr. Yoav Barnea, a senior plastic surgeon at the Plastic Surgery Ward at Tel Aviv Medical Center. This was followed by a special workshop accompanied by a lecture delivered by Social Worker Ruthie Bar Levav of the Rabin Medical Center. During the workshop, the participants discussed feelings that arose during their ongoing work with callers coping with cancer. Telemeida in Arabic The ICA Telemeida in Arabic was established in mid The hotline is accompanied by and run under the guidance of ICA Activity Director in Arab Society, Faten Ghattas, and ICA social worker of the Northern Region, Ms. Ariela Litvitz, and social worker Hanad Abaiye. Prof. Jamal Zidan Director of the Oncology Institute at the Ziv Medical Center in Safed, and Dr. Manassa Ramon, surgeon at the Breast Care Center at the Holy Family Medical Center in Nazareth serve as professional consultants. The information and support hotline callers are from diverse 29

28 30 sectors of the population, and many calls are received from patients who have been diagnosed with the disease, as well as from survivors, and relatives and friends of patients requesting information, contact or support; calls are also received from professionals and the general public who have been assisted by ICA booklets and request further information. Some callers identify themselves by name and some prefer to remain anonymous. The content of the calls ranges from calls from people who wish to receive further information about different types of diseases and calls from people who seek emotional support when they feel desperate, hopeless and helpless. The hotline's publicity through media channels has significantly increased the number of calls. There is advocacy activity in order to promote the hotline through hospitals and welfare bureaus. Telemeida Activity in Russian In 2008 thousands of calls were registered at the information hotline in Russian. The calls vary: callers seeking information about the disease, treatment and prevention methods, information material, callers who have questions about rights and services, and who seek emotional support and ways of coping with cancer. Fears of the possibility of contracting the disease also emerged (exposure to the Chernobyl nuclear reactor's radiation, breast cancer gene carriers among Ashkenazi women, skin cancer, etc.). Consultants, social workers, advocates and psychologists join the regular staff as required. The staff assists in translating ICA information booklets and during awareness months the staff manning the information hotline is reinforced. During Skin Cancer and Early Detection Awareness Month, there was a significant increase in the number of calls; about 200 calls were received that same week, all revolving around examination and early detection stations. The medical staff working at the hotline, headed by the Director of Telemeida in Russian, Dr. Samyon Shapiro, hold health seminars throughout the country with the participation of Russian speaking specialists, such as oncologists, endocrinologists, urologists, etc. These health seminars are designed specially to increase awareness about the importance of early detection and to place an emphasis on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Reinforcing Resource Center Staff and Innovations on the ICA Website The ICA Resource Center has been in operation for 20 years, with new fields of activity added each year, such as online professional and scientific responsibility on the ICA website, and this year the online hotline will welcome a new resource specialist to its ranks, according to the significant tasks, who joined the experienced seasoned staff. The staff answers questions mainly addressed by cancer patients and their families on many different complex issues, such as the link between the patients and the health establishment, assistance and guidance regarding various support entities, assistance in dealings with the health care funds in all that concerns drugs and treatments that are not included in the health basket, other information searches, etc. Concurrent with their ongoing work, the ICA website was recently upgraded for the welfare of patients. In addition to the extensive information found on the website, including individual responses to questions, a new forum network has been uploaded on the website. There are currently eight forums in operation run by leading experts who are

29 members of ICA's update committees, and as per request and response, additional forums will be uploaded, as well as additional subjects related to cancer diseases, rehabilitation and how to cope with the disease. Additionally, the ICA website was expanded in Russian and several information sheets in Russian were uploaded on various cancer diseases. The events schedule is updated online. The ICA website in Arabic is also continually updated on a daily basis. The ICA website in English contains updated information regarding activities and services performed by ICA. It also supplies information regarding cancer research and research breakthroughs, and specifies supported medical institutions and projects by ICA as well as ICA branches abroad. The website details ways of supporting ICA by donating for a specific project, a research grant, the Book of Life, Gifts in memory etc. 31

30 Early Detection 32 Breast Cancer National Mammography Screening Program The National Mammography Screening Program initiated and currently run by the ICA in conjunction with the Ministry of Health and healthcare funds, has been monitoring breast cancer detection activity in Israel for the past 15 years. Prof. Gad Rennert, Director of the Community Medicine and Epidemiology at Carmel Hospital heads this national program. Since the outset of this project, the number of mammography units operating in Israel has grown from 20 to 56 of which are currently monitored by the National Mammography Screening Program. This monitoring program operates under defined national and international standards, implements standard computing methods that provide the necessary information and facilitates monitoring of detection quality. These institutes under quality assurance control, standard procedure in all western countries, receive complete information on the detection rate of women examined, on the features of tumors detected and possible failure indices. The main objective of the National Mammography Screening Program is to ensure a decrease in breast cancer mortality rates, as has been proven in population studies that have discovered a 30% decrease in mortality in women over the age of 50 who have undergone mammography screening in controlled programs. This year the scheduled appointments for mammography screening continue, conducted in close collaboration with the healthcare funds. All women between the ages of 50 and 74 are invited to be tested once every two years. The mammography program and summoning activity have raised the screening compliance rate, which currently stands at about 65%. A total of 3.2 million mammography tests have been monitored in Israel, and about 350,000 this past year alone. Mobile Mammography Vehicle "Michal" The ICA Mobile Mammography Vehicle "Michal" is now in its seventh year of operation throughout the country. The objective of the mobile vehicle is to enable women who reside in remote areas, as well as those who are unaware of the importance of the test, to undergo a mammography screening close to home. This project aims to improve screening accessibility and compliance with the test, which can save lives. The Mobile Mammography Vehicle "Michal" operates in collaboration with the Clalit, Maccabi and Leumit Healthcare Services. Since the mobile vehicle began operating, the gaps in compliance rates that formerly existed between the various sectors of the population have been considerably narrowed. This year, thanks to the initiative of a member of ICA's Executive Board, Mr. Yoel Feldshaw, the Israel Motor Vehicle Importers Association initiative provided a generous donation to financially support its activity. The mobile vehicle is staffed by a professional team of Mor-Mar, the company in charge of performing and deciphering screening tests. A personal invitation letter is sent to women of the appropriate age in every town the

31 mobile reaches and ads are placed by the ICA in the local newspapers announcing the mobile s scheduled activity in the region. (For more information about the mobile mammography vehicle's activity, please see the Public Information and Education Chapter) Regional Early Breast Cancer Detection Stations The ICA continues to assist in operating the regional early breast cancer detection stations throughout the country. A national public education program operates among the general female Israeli population to promote breast health awareness and to emphasize the importance of early breast cancer detection. Many efforts have been invested in the various sectors of the population, including the Arab sector, kibbutzim (collective settlements), new immigrants, the ultra- Orthodox sector, etc. Informational material was distributed in hundreds of thousands of copies in Hebrew, Arabic and Russian. Familial Cancer Counseling Program for Families at High Risk People with a family history of certain types of cancer among first-degree relatives, such as colorectal, breast, ovarian, prostate cancer and melanoma, are considered to be at high risk for developing cancer diseases. For the past eight years, the Carmel Medical Center in Haifa and the Tel Aviv Medical Center, have been operating counseling clinics for high-risk population. This project is run in association with the ICA, which continues to finance the employment of the professional staff operating the service at Carmel Medical Center, which serves as the national headquarters on this subject. Colorectal Cancer Identifying High-Risk Population For over 10 years, the ICA has adopted the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Union against Cancer (UICC) regarding the importance of screening populations at high risk for developing colorectal cancer. The program combines public education within the community and in the workplace. Aiming to promote awareness about the importance of early detection and to raise the test compliance rate, the ICA finances two years of special activity at three centers which have presented an outstanding program to detect high risk population, while conducting training activity for professional and educational staff who guide the general public. In 2008, the program was conducted at the following medical centers: Hadassah Ein Karem, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital and the Ziv Medical Center in Safed. The above medical centers were requested to operate according to recommendations formulated at the consensus meeting sponsored by the Ministry of Health, the ICA, and the Israel Medical Association, with specialists from abroad in attendance. The recommendations established the necessity of targeted screening for early colorectal cancer detection among the healthy population over the age of 50, as well as the need to conduct educational activity among professionals and the general public. 33

32 34 New Book: Hereditary Colorectal Cancer The book "Hereditary Colorectal Cancer" was published early this year; it was adapted to local needs and published in a Hebrew edition compatible with the original Australian version. The book was first published in English in Australia and was written by a large number of specialists from all over the world. This project offers a unique combination of writers in order to convey the vast knowledge and experience acquired by each and every one of the specialists in his/her particular field. One of the main objectives of the book was to reach each person in his/her own country and in his/her own language; hence, Prof. Paul Rozen, Consultant for the Detection and Prevention of Malignant Diseases of the Digestive Tract Services at the Rabin Medical Center and Tel Aviv Medical Center, and Inbal Keidar, Genetics Consultant at the Rafael Recanati Genetics Institute at the Rabin Medical Center, initiated the translation and publication of this enriching and professional book, with financial assistance from a generous donation provided by the Katzman family; this book was designed to serve as an informational tool that would provide answers to the numerous questions that emerge regarding familial colorectal cancer. National Program for Early Colorectal Cancer Detection The Ministry of Health has responded affirmatively to ICA's initiative and has implemented the National Program for the Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer for the past three years. This program is similar to the longtime National Program for Early Breast Cancer Detection in women. The necessity of this program is evidenced by the fact that it is a disease with high mortality rates; this disease, however, may be prevented, and its early detection may significantly increase chances for a cure and recovery. As part of this healthcare fund program, every person over the age of 50 is invited to undergo a fecal occult blood test once a year. Other patients, who are at high risk, are invited to a colonoscopy test at frequency as recommended by a physician. The report and monitoring are conducted by the Center for the Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer (coordinates the medical program, computers and administration and computing personnel), which compiles all the information obtained through a steering committee comprised of healthcare officials, a Ministry of Health official and an ICA representative; Prof. Gadi Rennert has been appointed Chairman of the Steering Committee. Upon the ICA's recommendation, the fecal occult blood test has entered the quality indices under review by the Ministry of Health at the various healthcare funds. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Each year, in early March, the ICA announces the inception of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. This local event, held concurrent with all the other international events held throughout the world, is officially declared at a special press conference, with the leading experts in the field of digestion in attendance. During Awareness Month, the ICA conducts an extensive and comprehensive educational campaign through all public media channels. This publicity campaign includes TV public service announcements tailored specifically for this subject, and various radio broadcasts to convey the importance of early detection. An open expert hotline on "Galei Tzahal" (IDF radio station) is aired, and, additionally, ads run in the local and national newspapers, in Hebrew, Russian and Arabic.

33 The slogan chosen to lead ICA's educational campaign this year is "In real life there isn't always a caution light. Have you reached the age of 50? An early detection test can save your life, get yourself tested!" The ICA believes that placing this subject on the public agenda will have an impact on women and men over the age of 50 to undergo the early colorectal cancer detection test. This is a test which may prevent and detect the disease at a stage where it may be cured. Initial Summary of National Early Detection and Prevention of Colorectal Cancer Program From initial statistics of the National Early Detection and Prevention of Colorectal Cancer Program, it emerges that the percentage of those undergoing testing is still low about 30%; however, this constitutes a significant increase as compared to previous years. As part of this program initiated by the ICA, and adopted by the Ministry of Health three years ago, all healthcare funds were instructed to perform a screening test for the general population of insured according to the policy that was established in the circular issued by the Director General of the Ministry of Health dated May 2005, upon the recommendation of the National Oncology Council. This policy established that all residents between the ages of would be invited once a year to undergo a fecal occult blood test. The National Program monitors early detection tests performed in Israel, and develops databases to enhance testing quality. These databases contain information about colonoscopy tests performed in Israel and the findings of these tests, radiology diagnoses including barium enema tests and virtual colonoscopy tests, all the histological reports of the intestinal tissue (both benign lesions and malignant lesions) and information from the oncology institutes. At this stage, only partial information is forwarded from some of the health institutions in Israel. All the information is monitored in order to ensure a high quality national program, anticipated to lead to a decline in colorectal cancer incidence rates and mortality rates in Israel. Healthcare Funds Reports as part of the National Program: The healthcare funds report that in ,000 fecal occult blood tests were performed among the target population consisting of 1.28 million subjects, with differences in test rates between the healthcare funds. Additionally, about 100,000 optical colonoscopy tests and virtual colonoscopy tests were performed among the target population. The colonoscopy test is recommended for people at high risk of contracting colorectal cancer, people with 35

34 36 a first-degree family history of colorectal cancer, as well as for people suffering from inflammatory intestinal diseases, and also serves for investigation among symptomatic patients. This data suggests that the national compliance rate for early detection tests and colonoscopy is close to 30%. This is significant rise in comparison with last year, in which performance rates fell below 10%; however these rates still express a large gap vis-à-vis the desired rate, which is a population screening rate of close to 70%. A disconcerting statistic was also reported over a third of subjects who tested positive in the fecal occult blood test which requires further testing, have yet to undergo the colonoscopy test. The statistics could possibly be worse. It is difficult to provide a precise statistic in all that concerns tests that were performed solely for early detection, seeing as many of the colonoscopy tests are performed due to a clinical finding or monitoring of patients. Prof. Gad Rennert, Head of the National Program who reported on the statistics at the press conference expressed the hope that next year with a more expanded monitoring program, he would be able to present more optimistic statistics, that will save the lives of many and called upon the public: "A simple test, that is non-invasive and conducted at home, can save your lives and the lives of hundreds of others, each year. Go get yourself tested". Skin Cancer Awareness Week Now in its seventeenth year, the Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign aims to increase awareness as to the importance of preventing the harmful effects of the sun and the significance of early skin cancer detection. The campaign emphasizes public education in all that concerns avoiding exposure to the sun at dangerous hours and taking safety precautions for sun smart exposure, as well as raising awareness of the importance of early detection (for more information please see the Public Information and Education Chapter). During Awareness Week, the ICA launches a public information campaign and ICA informative material is distributed at IDF bases, in schools, etc. Additionally, a national network of 300 screening stations is made available to the public. These booths are manned by dermatologists and plastic surgeons from all healthcare funds throughout the country. Early detection rates of melanoma - malignant skin cancer - have risen ten times since the campaign was launched! Early Detection Programs The ICA encourages the submittal of early detection research proposals. As part of the Early Detection Committee's activity, the following programs were approved for financing this year: Prof. Amiel Aliza, Meir Medical Center, on: The prediction of Hepatitis C patients who are prone to develop malignant disease. Dr. Rozner Guy, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, on: Completion of molecular genetic analysis in patients having the clinical phenotype of FAP, in whom only partial APC sequencing was performed and found normal. Dr. Cherninsky Rakefet, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, on: Diagnostic potential of tumor markers and cytokine levels in blood and saliva of patients with oral premalignant lesions Prof. Yosef Kapilushnik, Soroka Medical Center, on: Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer via Infrared Spectroscopy.

35 Rehabilitation and Welfare Seminars for the General Public Seminars focusing on various cancer-related subjects are organized on a frequent basis by the ICA Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept., such as: treatment methods, side effects and how the patient and his/her family deal with the disease. The positive feedback that we have received about the seminars reinforced the need to continue holding seminars each year. This year, like in the years before, numerous conferences and seminars were held for the benefit of cancer patients and their families, the medical staff as well as for the general public. National Annual Conferences of the Israel Stoma Organization The Annual National Israel Stoma Organization Conference was held in early October at the Rambam Health Care Campus. The conference opened with an exhibition and a panel of stoma nurses responded to audience's questions. This panel was followed by the lectures listed below: "Coping with Change" delivered by Ms. Roni Gegin, Director of the Social Work Services, Rambam Health Care Campus. "Enhancing sexual health of male stoma patients" delivered by Dr. Yoza Chen, Sex Therapist, Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Intimacy with stoma how to?" delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, sexual health nurse representing the ICA. "Impressions from the Stoma Conference in Puerto Rico" delivered by Mr. Ran Rubinstein, volunteer and representative of the "Young Stoma Patients" group. "New developments in the healthcare system" delivered by Mr. Meidad Gissin, President of the Israel Stoma Organization, Chairman of Tzvi Israel Health Consumers Association The Israel Stoma Organization conference was held in early November at Beit Mati. The conference opened with the same format as the previous one, an exhibition and round tables with stoma nurses on a question and answer panel. This session was followed by a lecture delivered by Ms. Aviva Eisenberg, Clinical and Medical Psychologist, Kaplan Medical Center, "The body and stoma from imperfection to perfection and reconciliation". Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA's Head Nurse, held a ceremony in tribute to Ms. Aliza Yaffe, ICA's former Head Nurse who retired. Dr. Ofer Kaspi, Integrative Medicine Director, at Rabin Medical Center - Belinson Hospital, "Wise Consumerism in Alternative Medicine", Ms. Yafit Na'or, volunteer for the Young Stoma Patient Organization, recounted the activities of the young organization, and Mr. Meidad Gissin, lectured on updates and innovations in the healthcare system and updates from the European Conference of International Stoma Organizations, held in Czechoslovakia, Seminar for Young Women who Contracted Breast Cancer The ICA held a unique seminar for young breast cancer patients (up to the age of 40) and their partners in mid-october at Beit Mati. About 100 women attended the conference which featured lectures specially 37

36 38 tailored to the young female public. The seminar was led by Prof. Moshe Inbar, Head of the Oncology Institute at Tel Aviv Medical Center and Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, delivered the opening greetings. The seminar featured the following lectures: "Innovations and updates on breast cancer treatment in young patients" delivered by Dr. Ella Evron, Director of the Breast Cancer Service at Assaf Harofe Medical Center, "Breast cancer genetics" by Ms. Sherry Lieberman, Genetics Consultant at Sha'are Zedek Medical Center, "The modern age of breast reconstruction in full and partial mastectomy" by Dr. Eyal Gur, Director of the Micro-Surgery Unit at the Plastic Surgery Ward at Tel Aviv Medical Center, "Fertility in young women with breast cancer" by Dr. Dror Meirov, Head of the Gynecological Service for Women with Breast Cancer at at Tel Hashomer Medical Center, "Intimacy among young cancer patients" by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Sexual Consultant, "Always a mother children coping with their mother's disease" delivered by Dr. Michal Braun, Psycho-oncologist at Sharrett Institute, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. Towards the end of the seminar, a panel of experts was held with lecturers answering questions. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. as part of the Roche Lends a Hand to Patients project At the end of September, The ICA held a seminar for young women (up to the age of 40) who contracted cancer and their spouses at Beit Mati, ICA's head office. The seminar was led by Dr. Ella Evron, Breast Cancer Service Director at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. Ms. Aliza Dolev, ICA Head of Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept, delivered the opening greetings. The following lectures were subsequently delivered: "Updates and innovations in treatment of breast cancer in young women" delivered by Dr. Bella Kaufman, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "'Because you came out of me...' About being parents of adolescents and coping with cancer" delivered by Dr. Inbar Cohen, Psycho-oncologist, Sharrett Institute, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "Breast reconstruction at a young age trends and innovations" delivered by Dr. Dean Ad-El, Director of the Plastic Surgery Ward, Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital and Schneider children's Medical Center, Head Physician at Clalit Esthetics. "Options for maintaining fertility in breast cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Fuad Azam, Director of Fertility and Conservation Service, Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Breast cancer and female sexuality" delivered by Dr. Liora Abramov, Sex Therapist, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel Aviv Medical Center. Breast Cancer Heredity should you know about it at a young age?" delivered by Dr. Michal Sagi, Genetic Consultation Coordinator for families with a history of breast and ovarian cancer, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. The seminar ended with a question and answer panel featuring the seminar lecturers. The enriching day was held under the organizational and professional direction of the Northern Region Social Worker, Ms. Ariela Litvitz and courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd.

37 "Celebrating Life" Seminar The ICA's annual "Celebrating Life" seminar was held at Kfar Hamaccabiya in Ramat Gan at the end of October 2007 for breast cancer patients and their partners. Over 600 women participated at the seminar to which there was a very positive feedback attesting, above all else, to the importance of the subjects presented. The seminar was opened by Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, and Dr. Shulamit Reizel, Director of the Breast Service at the Oncology Institute of Davidoff Medical Center, who orchestrated the event. The seminar featured the following lectures: "Innovations in treating breast cancer" delivered by Dr. Bella Kaufman, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, "Tailoring customized breast cancer care" delivered by Dr. Noa Efrat (Ben Baruch), Director of the Oncology Institute at Kaplan Medical Center, "Complementary Medicine in breast cancer care wise consumerism" delivered by Dr. Ofer Kaspi, Director of Integrative Medicine at Rabin Medical Center - Belinson Hospital, "The two of us together and each one separately - about cancer and couplehood" delivered by Dr. Michal Braun, Psychooncologist at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, "What is wisdom? Winnie the Pooh meets Woody Allen" delivered by Dr. Haim Shapira, mathematician and philosopher. A question and answer panel was held featuring the lecturers and dietician Ms. Oranit Topaz- Plotnik and physiotherapist Ruthie Peleg. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd The traditional seminar for women coping with cancer "Celebrating Life" was held at the end of October 2008 at Kfar Hamaccabiya. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Bella Kaufman, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, and Ms. Aliza Dolev, ICA Head of Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept, opened the seminar delivering greetings. The seminar featured the following lectures: "Innovations in breast cancer treatment" delivered by Dr. Noa Efrat (Ben Baruch) Director of the Oncology Institute at Kaplan Medical Center. "Delayed treatment side effects" delivered by Dr. Nava Zigelman-Danieli, Director Oncology Service Line, Maccabi Healthcare Services. "Innovations in Breast Reconstruction" delivered by Dr. Yoav Barnea, Director of the Breast reconstruction Service, Plastic Surgery Ward, Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Physical exercise and nutrition" delivered by Dr. Yoni Yarom, expert on sports medicine. The safe use of medicinal herbs and dietary supplements" delivered by Dr. Lee Goldstein, Clinical Pharmacology Service, Ha'emek Medical Center. "Couplehood, intimacy and sexuality making the impossible possible" delivered by Ms. Gila Bruner, Director of the Sexology Service, Sexual Medicine Center, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Following the lectures, a unique and moving dance performance was staged "Dancing Life" performed by "Yad Lehachlama" (Reach to Recovery) volunteers, along with women who discussed the disease and joined dancers from the TV reality show "Dancing with the Stars". An expert panel was held at the end of the seminar featuring seminar lecturers as well as physiotherapist Gilles Bracha of the Hillel Yaffe Medical Center and Ms. Sigal Frishman, Director of Clinical Nutrition Unit 39

38 40 at Rabin Medical Center - Belinson Hospital. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar for Women at Risk of Contracting Breast Cancer In late October a seminar was held at Beit Mati, ICA's offices, for healthy women at risk of contracting breast cancer. The participants heard lectures on the following subjects: "Genetics, Family and Breast Cancer" delivered by Prof. Eitan Friedman, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, "Physical Activity and Nutrition" delivered by Mr. Yair Karni, nutrition and sports expert, and "Risk factors, prevention and early detection of breast cancer" delivered by Prof. Tamar Peretz, Director of the Sharett Institute, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. At the end of the seminar, there was a panel discussion featuring the experts who answered questions. About 100 women participated in the event held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar for Lung Cancer Patients The seminar for lung cancer patients and their partners took place in mid-november at Beit Mati, ICA's head office, under the direction of Dr. Dov Flax, Senior Physician at the Davidoff Center, Beilinson Campus. Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, opened the seminar. Following her greetings various lectures ensued: "Diagnosis and surgical treatment for lung tumors", delivered by Dr. Alon Ben Nun, Director of the Chest Surgery Ward at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, "Innovations and updates on lung cancer treatment", delivered by Dr. Maya Gottfried, Director of the Lung Cancer Unit, Sapir Medical Center, and "Quality of life of the lung cancer patient who receives oncology treatments", delivered by Dr. Maya Gifes, Senior Oncologist at Sha'are zedek Hosptial. A question and answer panel was held at the end of the seminar featuring the seminar lecturers. About 150 patients attended the seminar held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd A seminar for lung cancer patients and their families was held in mid-november at Beit Mati. A green lung installation comprised of plant holders was set up on the lawn at the entrance to the building; the participants constructed a picture of green lungs from puzzle pieces that they received upon registration. The seminar was moderated by Prof. Ofer Merimsky, Director of the Skeletal and Soft Tissue Oncology Unit at Tel Aviv Medical Center and opened with greetings from Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, followed by the lectures listed below: "Updates and innovations in treating lung cancer" delivered by Dr. Maya Gottfried, Director of the Lung Cancer Unit, Sapir Medical Center. "PET CT in Lung Cancer" delivered by Prof. Einat Even-Sapir, Director of the Nuclear Medicine Institute, Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Improving quality of life for lung cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Maya Gifes, Senior Oncologist, Shaare Zdek Medical Center. "Surgical treatment of lung cancer" delivered by Dr. Alon Ben-Nun, Director of the Dept. of Chest Surgery, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. The lectures were followed by a question and answer panel comprised of the seminar lecturers. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd.

39 "Coping with sexual functioning in view of prostate cancer", delivered by Dr. Zachi Ben Zion, of the Treatment Clinic for Sexual and Couple Function Disorders at Soroka Medical Center. Seminar for Prostate Cancer Patients A seminar was held for prostate cancer patients and their families in mid-november 2007 at Kfar Hamaccabiya. About 750 people participated in enriching lectures on the following subjects: "Prostate cancer prevention and diagnosis" delivered by Prof. Haim Matzkin, Head of the Department of Urology at Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Surgical treatment of prostate cancer" delivered by Dr. Zohar Dotan, Head of the Uro-oncology Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Hormonal treatments in prostate cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Avivit Neuman, Senior Oncologist at Sapir Medical Center. Updated protocols and future innovations in chemotherapy in prostate cancer patients" delivered by Prof. Avishai Sela, Head of the Oncology Institute at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. "Radiation therapy in prostate cancer" delivered by Dr. Eliyahu Gez, Senior Physician at the Oncology Institute at Rambam Health Care Campus. "Supportive treatment for prostate cancer patients" delivered by Ms. Yaakova Kaufman, Chief Nurse of the Urology Institute, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. A panel of experts was held at the end of the seminar featuring the seminar lecturers and dietician Oranit Topaz, of Clalit Healthcare Services. The seminar was held under the direction of Prof. Ofer Nativ, Head of the Department of Urology at Bnei Zion Medical Center, courtesy of Novartis and Aventis Toward the end of September a seminar for prostate cancer patients and their partners was held at Kfar Hamaccabiya, led by Prof. Yaakov Ramon, Director of the Urology Ward at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, which garnered an unprecedented attendance of 900 people. The seminar opened with greetings from Ms. Aliza Dolev, ICA Director of the Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept. The seminar featured the following lectures: "Prostate Cancer prevention, diagnosis, and risk factors" delivered by Dr. Ilan Leibovitz, Head of the Urology Ward, Sapir Medical Center. "Surgical treatment of prostate cancer patients" delivered by Prof. Ofer Nativ, Head of the Urology Ward, Bnei Zion Medical Center. "State-of-the-art technologies in treating prostate cancer" delivered by Dr. Menahem Laufer, Urology Ward, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Prostate Cancer Foundation. "Updates and innovations in treating prostate cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Eli Rosenbaum, Head of the Uro-oncology Unit, Rabin Medical Center - Belinson Hospital. 41

40 42 "Radiation therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer" delivered by Dr. Mark Vigoda, Head of the Radiotherapy Unit, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "Supportive nutritional treatment for prostate cancer patients" delivered by Ms. Limor Ben Haim, Nutritionist, Clalit Healthcare Services. "Coping with sexual functioning with prostate cancer" delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse. A panel of experts was held at the end of the seminar for a question and answer session, led by Prof. Avishai Sela, Director of the Oncology Institute at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. This panel featured the seminar lecturers and Ms. Amira Shtenger, Urology Oncology Nurse of the Tel Aviv Medical Center. The seminar was held under the tutelage of ICA Central Region Social Worker Ms. Orit Spira, and courtesy of Novartis Oncology and Sanopy-aventis. Seminar for colorectal cancer patients and their families 2008 In the end of March a seminar for colorectal cancer patients and their families was held at Kfar Hamaccabiya, under the direction of Dr. Ayala Hubert, Head of the Digestive Tract Tumors Unit at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General delivered greetings, and her opening remarks were followed by the lectures listed below: "Risk factors, prevention and genetics" delivered by Prof. Dan Edreka, Director of Digestive Tract Tumors Unit, Oncology Institute, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Innovations and updates in the treatment of colorectal cancer" delivered by Dr. Alex Benny, Digestive Tract Tumors Center, Rambam Health Care Campus. "Quality of life in colorectal cancer patients" delivered by Prof. Ofer Merimsky, Director of the Skeletal and Soft Tissue Unit, Tel Aviv Medical Center. "Complementary medicine for complete health" delivered by Dr. Ofer Kaspi, Head of the Supplementary Medicine for Cancer Unit, Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Hospital. "Rolling with laughter" laughter workshop led by Ms. Ruth Hai, senior laughter yoga instructor. A question and answer panel was held at the end of the seminar featuring the seminar's lecturers and dietician, Ms. Hagar Miller of Clalit Healthcare Services. Seminar for Lymphoma, CLL and acute leukemia patients 2008 In the beginning of April a seminar for Lymphoma, CLL and acute leukemia patients was held at Kfar Hamaccabiya, under the direction of Prof. Eliezer Rachmilevitz, Director of the Hematology Institute at Wolfson Medical Center. ICA Director General, Miri Ziv, opened the seminar, and her greetings were followed by the lectures listed below: "Treating leukemia present and future", delivered by Prof. Ofer Spielberg, Director of the Hematology Institute at Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital. "Treating lymphomas present and future" delivered by Prof. Dina Ben Yehuda, Director of the Hematology Institute at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "Comprehensive treatment for the hematology patient" delivered by Dr. Irit Avivi, of the Hematology Institute at Rambam Health Care Campus. "Bone marrow transplant and new directions toward the future" delivered by Dr. Avihai Shimoni, Director of the Bone

41 Marrow Transplant Dept. at the Hematology Complex at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Following the lectures, a special performance was staged: "Through the heart a meeting by Yuval Dor" with artist Yuval Dor. A question and answer panel was held towards the end, featuring the seminar lecturers and dietician Limor Ben Haim from the Tel Aviv Medical Center. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. "Patients with neuro-endocrinological tumors diagnosis and treatment" delivered by Prof. David Gross. "Innovations in neuro-endocrinological treatment" delivered by Dr. Ido Wolf of the Oncology Institute at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Surgical treatment of endocrinological tumors" delivered by Prof. Petahya Reisman, Director of the Dept. of Surgery at Shaare Zedek Medical Center. "The genetic basis of neuro-endocrinological tumors" delivered by Dr. Simona Gruzinsky, Endocrinologist at Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital. "We're all in the same boat" delivered by Ms. Yael Shpatz, clinical nutritionist at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Seminar for patients with neuroendocrinological tumors A seminar for patients with nueroendocrinological tumors was held in early April at Beit Mati, ICA's head office. The seminar was moderated by Prof. David Gross, Coordinator of the Treatment Complex for Patients with Neuro-endocrinological Tumors at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv, delivered opening remarks, followed by the lectures listed below: At the end of the seminar, the lectures were followed by a question and answer panel featuring the seminar lecturers, led by Dr. Asher Shalmon, Sharett Institute, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, and the Medical Administration of the Ministry of Health. The seminar was held courtesy of Novartis Oncology. National mid-annual conference for patients who have undergone complete throat removal The end of May saw a national midannual conference for patients who have undergone complete throat removal. The conference was held at Beit Mati, ICA's head office. At the outset of the meeting, the participants and lecturers met over a cup of coffee for free conversation and visited the exhibit on supportive equipment, such as a speech valve, stoma covers, etc. Dr. Andy Wolf, dentist and President of Selivell Ltd. lectured on "Coping with a dry mouth: 43

42 44 what's new?" a "Laughter Yoga releasing experience" workshop was led by Ms. Bella Evron, a certified laughter yoga instructor, and a discussion was held among the conference participants. The day's events were summed up by Ms. Frieda Kornbrut, ICA Speech Therapist. Joint Seminar of the ICA and the Israeli Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology on childhood and adolescent cancer A seminar for parents of children with childhood and adolescent cancer, led by Prof. Miriam Ben Harush, Chairman of the Israeli Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, was held at Beit Mati, ICA's head office in early June. ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv, opened the seminar, delivering opening remarks, which were followed by lectures on the subject. The seminar ended in a question and answer panel led by Prof. Yosef Kapelushnik, Director of the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Institute at Soroka Medical Center. For more information, please see the "Professional Seminars and Conferences" Chapter. Seminar on "Quality of Life for cancer patients" A special seminar on quality of life for cancer patients was held at Kfar Hamaccabiya in mid-june. The seminar was led by Prof. Rafael Katan, Director of the Oncology Complex at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv, delivered opening remarks, which were followed by lectures on the following subjects: "Coping with side effects of chemotherapy treatments" delivered by Dr. Rivka Katzenelson, Senior Oncologist at the Oncology Institute at Kaplan Medical Center. "Coping with exhaustion, anemia, and sleep disorders during treatments" delivered by Dr. Itai Levi, Director of the Hematology Complex at the Soroka Medical Center. "The safe use of medicinal herbs and dietary supplements" delivered by Dr. Lee Goldstein, Pharmacology Service, Ha'emek Medical Center. "How the family copes with cancer disease" delivered by Social Worker Yaniv Ben Shoshan, Family Therapist, the Upper Galilee Supportive Treatment Staff. "Intimacy and Couplehood during treatments" delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse. "Morning of three sunrises a guide to an optimistic way of life" delivered by Ms. Hagit Siman Tov, lecturer and instructor. The seminar, organized by Ms. Ariela Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker, ended with a question and answer panel. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar for kidney and bladder cancer patients A seminar for kidney and bladder cancer patients was held in late June at Kfar Hamaccabiya. The seminar was led by Dr. Zohar Dotan, Director of the Uro- Oncology Service at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, and the following lectures were delivered: "Updates and innovations in kidney and bladder cancer" delivered by Prof. Avishai Sela, Director of the Oncology Institute at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. "Surgical Treatment of kidney and bladder cancer" delivered by Prof. Jacques Beniel, Director of the Urology Dept. at Rabin Medical Center- Beilinson Hospital.

43 "Side effects and quality of life among kidney and bladder cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Avivit Neuman, Senior Physician at the Oncology Institute at Sapir Medical Center. A special performance entitled "How are you?" was delivered by artist Ms. Rina Fadwa. The seminar, organized by Rachel Ophir, ICA Southern Region Social Worker, was held courtesy of Pfeizer. Regional Conferences Joint ICA and Ziv Medical Center Breast Cancer Seminar In early February, a joint seminar was held by the ICA and Ziv Medical Center on breast cancer at the Canaan Spa Hotel in Safed. Greetings were delivered by Dr. Oscar Ambon, Director of the Ziv Medical Center, Prof. Jamal Zidan, Director of the Oncology Institute, Ziv Medical Center, and Ms. Ariela Patients and families were invited to participate in a unique activity in which their point of view on quality of life would be committed to paper. Among other things written by patients were phrases expressing their feelings such as "sleeping through the entire night until the morning", "Seeing the sunrise and sunset everyday", "Living in happiness and knowing that everything is still ahead of me", "Positive thinking is imperative", and more. 45

44 46 Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker. The following lectures were delivered: "Updates on breast cancer" delivered by Prof. Jamal Zidan. "Early detection of breast cancer via mammography screening and ultra sound" delivered by Dr. Ariel Prober, Director of the Radiology dept. at Ziv Medical Center. "Is there a biological difference in breast cancer? Comparative research between Arab and Jewish women" delivered by Prof. Jamal Zidan, Director of the Oncology Institute at the Ziv Medical Center. "Intimacy and couplehood during treatments" delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse. "Lymphatic draining caring for and preserving hand health" delivered by Ms. Lotti Miller, Physiotherapist, Ziv Medical Center. "Intelligent nutrition" delivered by Ms. Michal Eilon, clinical dietician, Ziv Medical Center. A question and answer panel featuring the seminar lecturers was held at the end of the seminar; Mr. Yigal Yehezkeli, Behavioral, Organizational and Educational Consultant delivered a lecture on "Taking life easy and humor seriously". The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar on Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia CLL In early March a seminar for cancer patients and their families on Lymphoma and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) was held at the Ha'emek Medical Center in Afula. The seminar opened with greetings from Ms. Ariela Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker, and Dr. Michael Benett, Director of the Hemato- Oncology Institute at Ha'emek Medical Center, who orchestrated the event. The seminar featured the following lectures: "What is Lymphoma? And what is advanced treatment for this disease?" delivered by Dr. Michael Benett. "Innovative treatments for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) delivered by Dr. Ivgeny Chover, Senior Hematologist at the Hemato-Oncology Institute, Ha'emek Medical Center. "Supportive treatment for side effects of chemotherapy" delivered by Dr. Israel Gavish, Senior Hematologist at the Hemato- Oncology Institute, Ha'emek Medical Center. Coping with cancer of a family member" delivered by Ms. Hagit Zuker and Ms. Sara Eshel, social workers, Social Service, Ha'emek Medical Center. The seminar concluded with a personal account of cancer patient, Ms. Ofra Kayin and a question and answer panel featuring the seminar's lecturers. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar on Innovations in treatments and cancer-related information A seminar on innovations in treatments and cancer related information was held in March 2008 at the "Tikvateinu" community center in Kiryat Shemona, organized by Ms. Ariela Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker, and with assistance from the Chairperson of the ICA Kiryat Shemona Branch, Ms. Ruth Schwartz and a social worker student from Tel Hai Academic College. Ms. Ariela Litvitz opened the seminar with greetings which were followed by a lecture delivered by Dr. Gidi Gross, Head of the Biotechnology Faculty at Tel Hai Academic College, on "Cancer and the immune system", Social Worker

45 Mr. Yaniv Ben Shoshan, a family therapist at the Upper Galilee Hospice, lectured on "How the family copes with cancer", and Prof. Sna'it Tamir, Dean of the School of Science and Technology at Tel Hai Academic College, lectured on "New research in nutrition for cancer patients". Seminar on breast cancer A seminar on breast cancer was held in the end of July at Rambam Health Care Campus. The Director of the Oncology Institute at Rambam, Prof. Avraham Kuten, opened the seminar with greetings, followed by the lectures listed below: "Innovations and updates in breast cancer treatment" delivered by Dr. Georgette Fried, Director of the Breast Health Care Center, Oncology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus. "Intimacy and Couplehood during and after treatments" delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse. "Post breast surgery pain" delivered by Ms. Naomi Gottlieb, physiotherapist specializing in treatment of pain and lymphedema, Pain Relief Clinic, Rambam Health Care Campus. "ICA activities in the northern region" delivered by Ms. Ariela Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker. "Opting for happiness, meaningfulness, and hope, by employing body and soul skills to cope with cancer" delivered by Ms. Devora Reicher, ICA social worker. The seminar concluded with a question and answer panel featuring experts and led by Ms. Hana Zohar, Breast Care Coordinator nurse, Oncology/Breast Institute Rambam Health Care Campus. The seminar was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Seminar on aspects and innovations in cancer treatment Upon a commendable initiative of the Tiberias Branch of the ICA, a seminar was held for cancer patients and their families on aspects of and innovations in cancer treatment, held at the Caesar Premier Hotel in Tiberias. ICA Tiberias Branch Chairperson, Ms. Dalia Slutzky, and Ms. Ariela Litvitz, ICA Northern Region Social Worker, opened the seminar. They were followed by Dr. Yitzhak Shnirer, Director of the Oncology Institute at the Baruch Padeh Poriya Medical Center, who lectured on "Innovations in cancer treatment" and Ms. Levana Bernstein, a Breast Health Coordinator at the Oncology Institute at Baruch Padeh Poriya Medical Center, lectured on "Intimacy and couplehood during treatments". Continuing Education Courses for Professionals The ICA has been recognized by the Ministry of Education as an authorized institution for continuing educational courses. The professional continuous educational courses are an important part of ICA activity to train professionals in the unique field of treating cancer patients and their families. This training is especially designated for oncology and is not provided in an academic framework. A seminar for Hemato-oncology secretaries was held in November. Lectures were delivered on the following subjects: "Supplementary medicine", by Dr. Ofer Kaspi of Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Hospital, "Innovations in colorectal cancer treatment", by Dr. Benny Alexander of Rambam Health Care Campus, "Psychosocial treatment at oncology institutes", 47

46 48 by social worker Ms. Tatyana Gleiser of Ziv Medical Center, and "Dilemmas: the terminally ill patient law", by Dr. Shlomit Perry of Rabin Medical Center - Belinson Hospital. The seminar was organized by Ms. Ariela Litvitz, Orit Spira and Rachel Ofir, regional social workers. I srael Psycho - oncology Societ y Seminars An Israel Psycho-oncology Society seminar was held in the end of November 2007 at Beit Mati. About 100 nursing, psychology and social work professionals who care for cancer patients, participated in the seminar. Dr. Michaela Berkovitz, delivered a lecture on "Dilemmas at the end of life: when to stop curative treatment", Dr. Yaira Hamama-Raz lectured on "How melanoma survivors adapt, and how personal strength, communication style and cognitive evaluation contribute to this survival", Prof. Michael Zilberman lectured on "The Middle East Cancer Consortium (MECC) its nature and relevance to psychooncology". Ms. Inbar Cohen recounted the personal story of a mother with breast cancer and her adolescent daughter who coped together with the disease. An additional Israel Psycho-oncology Society seminar on: "Treating the elderly cancer patient" was held with the financial assistance from the Leah and Eliyahu Arbel Foundation at Beit Mati, in early November Dr. Shlomit Perry, Chairperson of the Israel Psycho-oncology Society and Director of the Psycho-oncology Unit at Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, organized the seminar. Opening greetings were followed by the lectures listed below: "The characteristics of psycho-social treatment of older patients with cancer" delivered by Dr. Miri Cohen, Dept. of Gerontology, Faculty of Social Welfare and Health Sciences, Haifa. "Geriatric Oncology: do older cancer patients require different treatment than younger individuals with the same diseases?" delivered by Prof. Lodovico Balducci of the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute Tampa, Florida. "Tablets and fragments of the tablets: elderly patients from a Jewish perspective" delivered by Dr. Uriel Levinger, Internal Ward B, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital. "Being elderly and a cancer patient: legal and ethical issues involved in the treatment of cancer patients" delivered by Dr. Israel Doron, Dept. of Gerontology, Faculty of Welfare and Health Sciences, Haifa. At the end of the seminar Prof. Lea Beider, Head of the Psycho-oncology Unit at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, moderate a clinical panel. Medical Students Day About 50 second year medical students from Soroka Medical School in Be'er Sheva convened for an intense seminar at Beit Mati. This is a long time tradition, in which medical students get a taste of oncology and psycho-oncology. Ms. Nira Tammuz, ICA Resource Center Director, gave an overview of ICA activity on behalf of patients and against the disease, Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, lectured on: "Sexuality and body image among cancer patients", Ms. Sherry Marcus, speech therapist at the Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, lectured on the subject of speech rehabilitation

47 after throat removal. Ms. Orit Spira, ICA central region social worker, presented the activity of the Rehabilitation Dept. and particularly highlighted the "Young Adults Embarking on life" project. Two "Yad Lehachlama" volunteers ended the day with their personal story of how they coped with breast cancer. The feedback was extremely positive. The seminar was led by Ms. Yonina Rendler, "Yad Lehachlama" Coordinator. Continuous educational course for speech therapists A continuous educational course has been held for the past 6 years on a regular basis (once every two months) at the ICA head office for speech therapists who care for patients who have undergone throat removal or different kinds of head and neck cancers, in order to help them rehabilitate speech and swallowing. About 10 speech therapists from hospitals around the country participate in the meeting. The workshop is led by Ms. Frieda Kornbrut, ICA speech therapist. During the meetings, they meet with patients and their families who receive counseling, and acquire practical experience in treatment and rehabilitation. The families' readiness to conduct a consultative-educational meeting contributes significantly to the treatment skills and knowledge of the speech therapists specializing in speech and swallowing rehabilitation, and head-neck tumor patients. The participants are updated on questions that arise in professional literature and research and they are given a platform for questions and discussions on case studies. Frieda Korbrut is invited regularly to lecture on speech and swallowing rehabilitation in patients with head-neck tumors as part of the residency training for nurses and physicians who are completing supplementary studies in nose, ear and throat medicine, as well as at schools for the study of ADDH disorders and at various hospitals. Electronic speech devices for patients who have undergone throat removal were introduced into the health basket this year, under the tutelage of Ms. Frieda Kornbrut. Onco-Pediatric Social Workers Forum The Onco-Pediatric Social Workers Forum continued its activity since November About 30 social workers from hospitals around the country who care for child cancer patients and their families participate in the forum. The participants receive unique therapeutic tools for treating children with cancer and their family members. The forum is under the professional direction of the ICA Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept. Workshops for medical teams on sexual health of cancer patients To promote sexual health of cancer patients, the ICA holds workshops for teams that treat cancer patients at medical centers and within the community. These workshops include an overview of attitudes and difficulties, imparting knowledge regarding the impact of the disease and treatments on sexual health, providing tools for basic intervention, according to the PLISSIT model, and exercises. To date, the workshops have been conducted at the following medical centers: Hadassah Ein Karem, Soroka Medical Center, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer (Gyneco-oncology and Oncology Dept.), Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Assuta, Tel Aviv. Similarly, a workshop was held for the oncology staff of Clalit Community Healthcare Services in the central region. Additional workshops will be held at other medical centers, such as Meir, Kaplan, Sheba Medical Center at 49

48 Nurses and Social Workers Network for Coordinating Treatment of Breast Cancer 50 The ICA has initiated, financed and trained nurses and social workers to coordinate the treatment of breast cancer throughout Israel (for additional information please see the "Medical Services" Chapter. Breast Care Nursing Forum The meetings of Breast Care Coordinators have been held regularly at Beit Mati, ICA head office, to update knowledge, share problems and experience in ongoing work, and provide mutual consultation. Additionally, the nurses work on several subjects, according to their preference. For example, one sub group chose to conduct a national research study and a second group chose to review the wording of the job definition of a Breast Care Coordinator. Ms. Aliza Yaffe convened the group several years ago, and Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, continues its activity since the former's retirement. Breast Care Coordinating Social Workers Forum The Breast Care Coordinating Social Workers Forum continues its activity. Continuous educational classes for nurses and social workers who are breast care coordinators Over 20 participants have already reserved their places in the training course led by Prof. Lea Beider, Head of the Psychooncology Unit at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. The continuous educational course which took place at Beit Mati, shall consist of four monthly meetings as of November 2008 and until February The course is being held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Joint Activities for the ICA and the Israel Oncology Nursing Society Bone Health conducting national nursing research on the following subject: evaluating training and monitoring of patients treated with biphosphonates, for the prevalence of Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the jaw. The research, initiated by Sara Ben Ami, Chairperson of the Israel Oncology Nursing Society, is now awaiting approval of the Helsinki Committee of various medical centers. The ICA research coordinator is Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse. The research shall be conducted courtesy of Novartis. Workshops for Gyneco-oncology Nurses Two workshops for gyneco-oncology nurses were held in November 2008 and January Coordinators: Ms. Sara Ben Ami and Ms. Livia Kislev, courtesy of Glaxo Smith Kline. Each nurse was requested to present an article on a specific subject in addition to delivering a guest lecture. The workshops' goal is to impart unique field-related knowledge, to get acquainted with colleagues from different centers, and to decide on continued joint activity for this group.

49 Tel Hashomer for hematology, bone marrow transplant as well as for other medical staff. The workshops were conducted by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, and starting April, Ms. Lena Kurtz, ICA Sexuality Consultant, joined in to moderate. Stoma Nurse Training course and Stoma Nurse Meetings In May-June 2008, a stoma nurse training course was held under the direction of Ms. Aliza Yaffe, Livia Kislev and Edith Kogan, Me'uhedet Healthscare Services Head Nurse. The program consisted of seven meetings, attended by 36 nurses from all healthcare funds and different communities. The Stoma Care Coordinators meetings resumed, under the direction of Ms. Livia Kislev, as the Breast Care Coordinators group. Clinical Training for Nurses at the Home Hospice Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, began serving as a clinical counselor for nurses studying advanced oncology courses at the Home Hospice. The students accompany home visits, participate in multi-disciplinary staff meetings, and in clinical discussions. Delivering lectures at international conferences In May 2008 Ms. Livia Kislev was invited to deliver two lectures at the Gyneco-oncology Conference in Turkey. One of the lectures was about the side effects of radiation therapy to the pelvis among women suffering from uterine cancer and cervical cancer. The second lecture dealt with the rehabilitation of sexual health among gynecological cancer patients. In September 2008, Ms. Livia Kislev presented a research study at the European Research Conference held in Austria on: "White lies that couples tell each other, when one of them has terminal cancer". 'Yad Lehachlama' (Reach to Recovery) Annual 'Yad Lehachlama' Volunteer Conference The annual 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteer conference was held at the Hilton Tel Aviv Hotel, under the direction of ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv. The conference opened with salsa dancing, and an activity led by Ms. Anat Koren, followed by the lectures listed below: "Innovations in breast cancer" delivered by Dr. Bella Kaufman, Director of the Breast Cancer Unit, Oncology Complex at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Are negative feelings necessarily bad?" delivered by Dr. Gili Goldzweig, clinical psychologist, Tel Aviv-Jaffa College. "Fertility in women with breast cancer" delivered by Dr. Tanir Elweiss, breast surgeon at Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem. "Is this the child we longed for?" how parents with cancer cope with their children" delivered by Dr. Inbar Cohen, psychologist, Sharrett Institute, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "Updates in genetics of breast cancer" delivered by Prof. Efrat Levi-Lahad, Director of the Medical Genetics Unit at Shaare Zedek Medical Center. "Female power in a male world female biblical and literary figures" delivered by Dr. Rachel Freudental, historian at the Hebrew University and Alma College, and Ms. Agi Mishol, poetess, and Hebrew University Prize Laureate. Towards the end of this enriching day, a dialogue entitled: "Volunteering its significance and contribution to me" was held among the volunteers, led by Prof. Lea 51

50 52 Beider, Head of the Psycho-oncology Unit at Hasassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. This was followed by a moving farewell to Ms. Levana Cohen, Director of the "Yad Lehachlama" Rehabilitation Division, who retired after years of productive activity. The seminar was held courtesy of Novartis Oncology and Glaxo-Smith-Kline Oncology. New Project Integrating 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers in Breast Clinics In January 2008, a new project - 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteer rotation program - was launched at Tel Aviv Medical Center Breast Clinic, in which volunteers will be at the disposal of every woman who arrives at the clinic, for diagnosis, removal of stitches, postsurgery consultation and treatments, and may be interested in talking with a woman who had the same experience. The project is overseen by: Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker and Ms. Yonina Rendler, 'Yad Lehachlama' Coordinator. Emulating the "Tel Aviv Brother" project, this project was launched in September 2008, for volunteers rotation at the Oncology Institute at Ha'emek Hospital in Afula. The project is being conducted in close collaboration with the psycho-oncology hospital staff and is overseen by Ms. Ariela Litvitz, northern region social worker, and Ms. Yonina Rendler, 'Yad Lehachlama' Coordinator. Two 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers participated in the European Breast Cancer Coalition "Europa Donna" (ED) Aviva S. and Maya A. participated in the annual ED conference. They met representatives from European countries, exchanged opinions and made strong new connections with some of the delegates. `Yad Lehachlama' Volunteer Telephone Monitoring Group Expanded The volunteer telephone monitoring group of 'Yad Lehachlama' began operating also from Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Support and Welfare Center at the Rosenfeld House in Haifa. A periodical meeting was held in early July for volunteers who are members of the telephone monitoring staff. They heard an overview of updates on innovations in breast cancer treatment, delivered by Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, and with help from central region social worker, Ms. Orit Spira, during the second half of the meeting, they discussed cases which they had encountered in their conversations with post-op patients. Ms. Aliza Dolev, Director of the Rehabilitation Dept., and Ms. Yonina Rendler, 'Yad Lehachlama' Coordinator also participated in that meeting. Workshop for New Volunteers Ended the workshop for new 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers, led by Prof. Lea Beider and Ms. Levana Cohen. 12 volunteers participated, mostly young women, from all over the country. `Yad Lehachlama` Meeting at the Ben Gurion University School of Medicine in Be'er Sheva A unique meeting was held between first year medial students and two `Yad Lehachlama` volunteers. This meeting, moderated by southern region social worker Rachel Ofir, was held for students to get in touch with the emotional process that breast cancer patients go through. The feedback that we received, from the students as well as from the volunteers, indicated that both parties gained a great deal. The meeting offered

51 an important glimpse into the issue for students, and the volunteers had a unique experience. Social meetings for 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteer s toast in honor of Passover Ms. Yonina Rendler, 'Yad Lehachlama' Coordinator, initiated social meetings for 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers. A meeting for volunteers from Haifa and the northern region was held in early April at Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Support and Wellfare Center at the Rozenfeld House in Haifa, with 20 volunteers for a social meeting. In the second half of the meeting participated Mr. Doron Orseno, who ran the music therapy group, Ms. Judy Raviner, 'Yad Lehachlama' Haifa Branch Director, Ms. Yaffa Koren, Haifa Branch Coordinator and Ms. Yonina Rendeler. A similar meeting was held at Beit Mati, ICA head office, in April for volunteers from the central region and Be'er Sheva. The volunteers met with 'Yad Lehachlama' ICA staff, Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker, and Ms. Yonina Rendler, 'Yad Lehachlama' Coordinator. During the second half of the meeting, there was a laughter yoga workshop led by Ms. Bella Baram. This was a fun-filled, relaxing meeting. "Female-One on One" Meeting A special meeting was held in September 2007 at the Canaan Spa Hotel in Safed within the framework of "They're all Winners" Foundation activity for the welfare of 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers who coped with breast cancer. The meeting was overseen by Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd., with the Electra Ramat Hasharon basketball team participating. About 40 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers from all over Israel arrived at the hotel in the afternoon. Following a festive dinner, they heard a lecture delivered by Ms. Miriam Bernhardt, "What is good for our lives". The evening ended as they sang along with singer Andella Nir. The following morning, after a "pilates" lesson and breakfast, they heard a lecture delivered by Ms. Shiri Havkin about bach flowers and the chiropractor, Mr. Dov Rosneblit, delivered an enriching lecture on "The journey to palm". The participants enjoyed the fascinating lectures and an entertaining evening of song and dance, enabling them to unwind, laugh themselves to tears, and really bond. "They're All Winners" foundation contribution was presented to 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers A gala evening, celebrating the opening of the Electra Ramat Hasharon national basketball team season, was held in early October 2007, in Ramat Hasharon. The new basketball team members were introduced during the gala evening, as well as the team's new sponsor, Electra. The event took place in the presence of the city's Mayor, Mr. Yitzhak Rochberger, and members of the City Council. The singer Korin Elal gave an artistic performance. "They're all Winners" Foundation is a joint initiative of the Electra team and Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. established for cancer patients. The foundation's aim is to increase awareness of the disease, as well as to support cancer patients and lift their spirits. Funds for the foundation were raised through sports activities. The number of points earned by the team's lead scorer was converted into money that in turn was 53

52 donated by the team, multiplied by 18 shekels by Roche Pharmaceuticals and collected in the "They're all Winners" Foundation, for the welfare of female patients. To date, the Foundation has collected 250,000 NIS which has been used for the benefit of 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers. Fun Day for 'Yad Lehachlama' Volunteers at the foot of Gilboa mountain As part of the "They're all Winners" Foundation activity for the welfare of female cancer patients sponsered by the Electra Ramat Hasharon basketball team and Roche Pharmaceutical company, about 50 volunteers were invited in the end of September 2008 for a day of relaxation and pleasure that included: an indulging breakfast, kayaking on the Asi stream, Tibetan yoga combining movement and music as well as lunch by the stream. To conclude the day, a unique artistic event combining body music as well as playing music with different objects, alongside the creation of a symphony using drums and percussion instruments. 54 "Relaxing Weekend" at Dan Caesarea Hotel Cancer patients and their spouses were invited in early January 2008 to participate in a relaxing weekend courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. About 40 couples, one of each partner is a cancer patient, participated in three days of relaxation and indulgence. This unique weekend provided them with renewed hope and additional tools to cope with the disease. The participants' satisfaction was manifested in their enthusiastic responses during the activities and in the feedback that they submitted. The warm and supportive atmosphere that prevailed throughout the weekend allowed them to take an active part in the program and to feel comfortable, even though they didn't know one another beforehand. Remarks such as: "I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard", were repeatedly heard. The meticulous preparation and thorough organization as well as the diverse program all contributed to the event's success.

53 Fun Day for 'Yad Lehachlama' Volunteers and Electra Ramat Hasharon basketball players at the Caesar Spa in Caesarea 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteers met Electra Ramat Hasharon basketball players in February 2008 for a day of bonding and fun at the Caesar Spa in Caesarea. They took part in belly dancing and a laughter yoga workshop. The atmosphere and the unwinding "recharged their batteries" for many more months of productive volunteer activity and the participants thanked for the moving and enjoyable day. Flower Planting Ceremony at Ramat Hasharon The ceremony, marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, took place in early October 2008 in Ramat Hasharon, in the presence of the city's Mayor, Electra Ramat Hasharon basketball team, Roche Pharmaceuticals CEO, and the 'Yad Lehachlama' volunteer group who thanked for the commendable endeavor that makes the "They're all Winners" Foundation activity possible. Workshops and activities for the welfare of cancer patients "Look good feel better" The ICA presents and runs the "Look good feel better" project initiated by `Yad Lehachlama` volunteer, Dr. Francine Robinson, who directs the project on a volunteer basis. In this project, beauticians, make-up artists, wig-dressers, and hairdressers volunteer their services, attending to female cancer 55

54 patients at oncology institutes, at day care centers at hospitals, at ICA branches, in home hospices and within the community. The patients receive cosmetic treatment and guidance on how to take care of their hair and/or to adapt their hair-cut in order to help them feel that if they look good they'll feel better. Additionally, volunteer hairdressers tend to wigs and select and style them to fit patients. The wigs are provided to women in need, free of charge. To date, the project is run at 41 different centers throughout the country. There are 48 volunteer beauticians, makeup artists, hairdressers and wig-dressers participating in this project. About 5,000 women participated in the project over the course of the year. 10 workshops for female cancer patients are held throughout the year at Beit Mati and at different centers, such as ICA branches and hospitals. Similarly, there were four meetings with project volunteers for bonding, to provide professional guidelines and to discuss relevant issues. In 2008 there were make-up and beauty care workshops at Ma'agan Support Center for Cancer Patients in Be'er Sheva, at the Oncology Day Care Center at Rambam Health Care Campus, at the Oncology Day Care Center at Laniado Medical Center, at a Fun Day for cancer patients and their families held at Park Yehoshua in Tel Aviv, as well as a workshop in Arabic held in Sahnin. 56 Special beauty care and cosmetics day for female cancer patients marking the new year A special beauty care and cosmetics day for female cancer patients sponsored by the "Look Good Feel Better" project was held at the end of September at Beit Mati. About 20 women took part in this exhilarating day, and had a special beauty care experience that was offered by Mr. Yarin Shahaf`s make-up artists, who volunteered their services, and had their hair and their wigs done courtesy of Rivka Zehavi Wigs and Yanir Sela courtesy of Studio Yanir Sela took the quality and professional photos. Representative photos were selected to appear on a special poster to be distributed to cancer patients throughout Israel inviting them to participate in this unique and successful ICA project.

55 Additional workshops and activities that were held at the end of 2008 A beauty care and make-up workshop for women with caner at the ICA Haifa Branch courtesy of Yossi Biton. A workshop for patients at the ICA "Strong Together" Day Care Center (Hazakim Beyahad) in Givatayim A production of "Look Good Feel Better" newsbulletin. A volunteer workshop at Beit Mati. for this program. Each participant receives a booklet, a monitoring booklet, a steps gauge and an elastic band for exercises. The project began at three medical centers: the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Hadassh Ein Karem and Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Meir, Rambam and Kaplan have also joined its ranks, with the aim being to expand this program nationwide. "Marching towards quality of life" Project The aim of this project, began toward the end of 2007, is to expose cancer patients to the health-related advantages inherent in physical activity, as well as to encourage them to integrate planned and structured activity into their routine and provide them consultation and professional accompaniment. The health-related, physical, and emotional advantages of physical activity among cancer patients have been researched a great deal in recent years. The various research studies have focused on diverse patient populations such as: bone marrow transplant patients, breast cancer patients, patients who receive chemical or radiation treatment, and more. The professional literature consistently indicates an improvement in sleep patterns and in quality (physical and emotional) of life of patients as a result of engagement in physical activity. The project courtesy of "Yensen Sileg" is run by the ICA under the professional guidance of Dr. Na'ama Constantini, an expert on sports medicine, and Mr. Shahar Nice, an exertion physiologist of the Hadassah Medical Center and Ms. Livia Kislev, who is responsible launching of Marching towards quality of life project at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, under the direction of Edna Bukstein, expert in walking. 57

56 58 Arik Ze'evi, Marina Maximilian Blumin, Danny Robas and Ohad Chitman at ICA happening "Strong together", held for the second consecutive year The ICA held a happening entitled "Strong Together" for cancer patients and their families for the second consecutive year at Breishit Forest at Hayarkon Park courtesy of GlaxoSmithKline. About 500 cancer patients from all over Israel participated and enjoyed a wide range of activities and workshops with their families such as: laughter yoga, listening workshop, make-up corners, workshop on how to walk properly, performance delivered by Chico the Clown, and Mediterranean style refreshments such as falafel and pita breads. At the entrance to the happening, Judo champ Arik Ze'evi awarded a medallion to each cancer patient and signed his personal autograph on shirts upon request. The climax of the evening was the performance delivered by Marina Maximilian Blumin, Danny Robas and Ohad Chitman who volunteered their services. During Ohad Chitman's performance, the singer told cancer patients in the audience that he himself coped with cancer twice and gave a tip based on personal experience: "Focus on the fact that there's a future, and nurture your dreams". Marina Maximilian Blumin got up on stage barefoot and sang quiet songs along with the audience. When she finished performing, she invited Danny Robas and Ohad Chitman to the stage and together they improvised on stage, based on phrases that they asked from the audience, and the captivated crowd gave a huge round of applause. The event was produced by Mr. Alon Ben Shoshan, with assistance from the Ganei Yehoshua Park administration, Breishit Forest, and the Tel Aviv Municipality Events Dept., Nira Rabinovtich, Sinai Harel, Zachi Yaniv, Shlomit Langerman, Dr. Francine Robinson, Kineret Products Modulart, Phasa Amplification and Lighting, Ruthy Hai, Gitam BBDO, GlaxoSmithKline and Magen David Adom. Meeting on "New medical approaches and the emotional aspect" The ICA Hadera Branch, under the moderation and direction of northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz, conducted a meeting on "New medical approaches and the emotional

57 aspect" at the end of the November at the ICA branch in Hadera. During the meeting, Dr. Orit Sofer, Director of the Hematooncology Unit at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center in Hadera, lectured on new approaches in oncological treatment, and Ms. Livia Kislev, ICA oncology nurse and sexuality consultant, lectured on intimacy and couplehood during and after treatments. The Hadera branch volunteers, Ms. Tali Shabtai and Ms. Adi Shita, assisted in organizing the event along with social worker Ariela Litvitz. Being a parent and coping with cancer parent workshop In January 2008 was held an inaugural workshop for cancer patients at the initial stages of the disease and their spouses who are parents to children up to the age of 18. The workshop was held at Beit Mati. The workshop opened with greetings delivered by ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv, and Dr. Michal Braun, Senior Psycho-oncologist at the Oncology Institute at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. This was followed by group work on "What will I tell my children" led by psycho-oncologists from medical centers throughout the country, Dr. Ilanit Hasson-Ohayon, of the Psychology Dept. at Bar-Ilan University lectured on "Tell and share", and Dr. Michal Braun lectured on "Children's responses and identifying distress". Psycho-oncologists led additional groups that discussed "How my children react" and "Routine and changes". Dr. Michal Braun summed up the workshop sponsored by Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. Sexual consultation courtesy of ICA throughout Israel For some time now, sexual consultation services have been provided once a month at the ICA Clair and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Support and Welfare Center at the Rosenfeld House in Haifa branch, by Ms. Lena Kurtz, oncology nurse and ICA sexual health consultant. The ICA Beer Sheva branch provides similar consultation services since October. Naturally, this service is free of charge and is designed to provide a solution for patients who find it difficult to get to the ICA head offices. Since Ms. Lena Kurtz entered her position in March 2008, the sexual consultation service is also provided in Russian, and this has expanded the service to a broader population. The following are sexual health programs for cancer patients that are planned: updating a male sexuality booklet, publishing an instructional booklet for the religious society, holding workshops for patients, renewing meetings of a nurses' interest group in order to promote the subject and a nurses' continuing education course that provides remuneration is in the works. Stoma Organization activities The activities are organized by Ms. Livia Kislev, Silvia Alashvilli and Mr. Meidad Gissin. In addition to the annual conferences and training for professional staff, another edition of the periodical "Pitchon Peh" was issued. The main subjects in this edition was "Coping with stoma" and the activity of Ms. Aliza Yaffe which left its mark on stoma patients and attending staff alike. The Young Stoma Patients Organization: Two meetings were held at the homes of group members over the past year. Yafit Na'or and Ran Rubinstein who established the group with Ms. Aliza Yaffe, coordinate its activity along with Ms. Livia Kislev and Silvia Alashvilli. The Young Stoma Patients website was set up courtesy of the ICA. 59

58 60 In April 2008, a Knowledge Update Day was held for those who graduated from the previous group of stoma nurses. This course was also coordinated by the ICA in collaboration with the Me'uhedet healthcare fund. This day was dedicated mainly to honing equipment adjustment skills and to update knowledge on the subject of biological drugs for colorectal cancer "The Wishes Ambulance" This is a new joint ICA and Magen David Adom project. This humanitarian project is designed for cancer patients at an advanced stage, mainly for those who are in hospices or home hospices. The idea behind this project is to help fulfill the wishes of cancer patients who are aware that their days are numbered. Their wishes will be fulfilled with the help of an ambulance, wheelchair with high traction, purchased with the help of the friends of the ICA in Holland, and accompanied by a medical staff who will enable people who have lost their mobility to attend family events, visit unique sites or places that bring back memories, attend cultural performances, visit relatives, etc. Fulfilling patients' wishes is a significant achievement for them. This assistance is provided to each patient regardless of religion, race or nationality, and each patient receives the same warm service free of charge. Magen David Adom will provide the patients with a new full equipped ambulance with state-of-the-art devices to serve the patient, and the ICA for its part, contacts volunteers mainly from the relevant wards of various hospitals, who were selected based on their professionalism and experience. Support Meetings for Cancer Patients Support groups women and cancer Led by Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker, and social worker Anat Zakkai of the Breast Health Center at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. About 15 young female cancer patients between the ages of meet once every two weeks. The group constitutes a source of support for women with different kinds of cancer, who are in different family situations. The group discussed couplehood, work, coping with anxiety, children, the switch from illness to health and more. A similar group is held once a month at the ICA Netanya branch, led by Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker. This group serves as a source of support and encouragement for women residing in this area. The northern region has a similar support group led by Ariela Litvitz, northern region social worker and social worker Tatyana Gleiser of the Oncology Institute at the Rebecca Ziv Medical Center. Support Group for Spouses, Widowers and Widows who lost their dear ones to cancer is led by northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz and social worker Devora Reicher of the Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Support and Welfare Center at the Rosenfeld House in Haifa. Devora Reicher is also a leader of "Body & soul combined therapy" groups in the north, and Prof. Ora Gilber, social worker of Haifa University, leads a support group on women and cancer in Haifa.

59 The Colorectal Cancer Patients Support Group continues its activity, led by central region social worker Orit Spira and social worker Arza Ashkenazi of Tel Aviv Medical Center. The Young Adult support group, led by Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker and Ms. Rachel Ofir, southern region social worker, ended its activity and a new group started its activity. A support group for spouses of female cancer patients, led by Ms. Orit Spira, central region social worker, and Ms. Anat Zakkai, opened. Over the past year, meetings have been held once a month for bereaved parents who lost their children (over the age of 18) to cancer. Most of the participants are parents of sons and daughters who were involved in the Young Adults project. This group is accompanied and led by central region social worker Orit Sapira and ICA Head Nurse, Livia Kislev. A "from illness to health" support group for women opened in Tiberias; this group is geared toward residents of Tiberias and the surrounding areas and is led by social worker Dalia Givoni of Poriyah Medical Center and Ariela Litvitz ICA northern region social worker. Two meetings of the female cancer patients group were held in July in Arad, with the aim of supporting, guiding and counseling. The meeting was led by Ms. Rachel Ofir, southern region social worker in conjunction with Mr. Danny Shor, Chairman of the ICA Arad branch. Prostate Cancer Patient Forum In September a meeting was held for prostate cancer patients and their families at Beit Ma'agan in Be'er Sheva, with specialist Dr. Vilmush Marmelstein of the Oncology Institute at Soroka Medical Center, and led by Ms. Rachel Ofir, southern region social worker. A prostate cancer patient forum take place once a month at the Claire and Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Support and Welfare Center at the Rosenfeld House in Haifa, led by northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz. An additional prostate cancer patient forum is also being convened at Beit Mati, led by Dr. Arieli and coordinated by nurse Sara Nissimov. Activity for Children with Cancer ICA Annual Family Vacation during the Sukkot Holiday Once again this year, the Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept. held the ICA annual Sukkot family vacation for children and their families, which provided children and their families with a brief respite to enjoy themselves and be happy. The 4-day vacation took place at the Shefayim Hotel and Water Park. The participants enjoyed diverse activities such as a kite workshop, a foam truck, an illusion performance, balloon making, and improvised artistic performances, a "science on the go" mobile vehicle, and spent time at the Water Park and Motor Park, and more. This year the participants enjoyed a visit from actors Hani Nachmias, Ran Bechor and Asaf Ishtar, "Nachshon and Friends" from 61

60 ICA Annual Family Vacation during the Sukkot Holiday children with cancer participated in a 4-day ICA annual family vacation which took place at the Shefayim Hotel and Water Park during the 2007 Sukkot holiday. The children came with their siblings and parents from all over Israel; Jews and Arabs, religious and secular, new immigrants and native born Israelis participated. The participants enjoyed diverse activities such as a kite workshop, an illusion performance, balloon making, and improvised artistic performances, and spent time at the Water Park and Motor Park, and more. They also went on a safari and enjoyed a plethora of performances and plays delivered by artists and singers. This year the participants enjoyed a visit from leading Kochav Nolad (Israeli version of American Idol) singers and others, as well as artists, entertainers, and dancers. Other diverse activities were held for the children and their families throughout the day. The artists' visit was made possible by the Electric Co. and upon the initiative of Mr. Mottti Wagner, Welfare Director of the Electric Co. in the north, who collaborated with the producer Arele Giladi. Ziv Tourism also contributed to the event. The children and their siblings also received an assortment of gifts that were contributed to the project. The vacation is organized by the ICA Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept. and is coordinated each year by Ms. Levana Cohen and Zehava Katz. Yossi Weiss 62 Miriam Tokan, Chen Aharoni, and Motti Wagner with Sharon Eviatar who is 2 years and 8 months old, at "Challenges" Association activity at the ICA vacation on a ride at a high altitude Hodaya with the pigeon that grants wishes Dana Dvorin with Motti Wagner, Rotem and Dana Dvorin's daughter Rotem with Si Hyman

61 the Hop channel, the Eliav family, singer Moshe Peretz. Other diverse activities were held for the children and their families throughout the day. The artists' visit was made possible by the Electric Co. and upon the initiative of Mr. Mottti Wagner, Welfare Director of the Electric Co. in the north, who collaborated with producer Arele Giladi. The children and their siblings also received an assortment of gifts that were contributed to the project. The vacation was organized by the ICA Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept. and coordinated by Ms. Aliza Dolev and Zehava Katz. 103 Jewish and Arab families from across the country participated in the vacation this year. Children's plays for children with cancer This year, about 450 tickets to the Hannuka Festigal performance were provided by the Tel Aviv-Jaffa Municipality, in addition to tickets to Narnia, and Around the World in 80 Days, in collaboration with Mr. Ron Makrin, Marketing Dept. Director. Hope for Life The "Hope for Life" project continues this year under the tutelage of Project Coordinator, Ms. Zehava Katz. Child cancer patients who miss school frequently due to treatments can continue advancing scholastically. Hundreds of children, ranging from preschooler to 12th graders preparing for matriculation exams, are assisted in this project. Students visit the child at home and help him/her with school work so that the child can remain actively involved in the material covered in class while he/she was away. The investment in the child's future provides strength and hope to the patient and to his/her family in this complex situation that is difficult to cope with. The student tutors meet for training and guidance sessions that are held in different regions by regional social workers, Ariela Litvitz, Orit Spira, and Rachel Ofir. Impact Project The "Impact for the Community" Project coordinated by Social Worker Dalia Stern is currently in its third year. Students are active in several tracks throughout the year: Assisting cancer patients who live on their own, accompanying and supporting children with cancer, accompanying and supporting children who have a parent or sibling who has cancer, assisting in the oncology wards and institutes at hospitals. At least once a month, the project coordinator gives each of the students who professional guidance, counseling, accompaniment and support. In addition, two group meetings were held over the course of the year in the regions. The first meeting focused on orientation for activity and the second one focused on preparing for the anticipated parting from the child/family/ staff. The training groups for students are led according to region by ICA regional social workers in collaboration with social worker Dalia Stern, Project Coordinator. The warm feedback on the ground underlines the great significance of this noteworthy project. 128 students who contributed 16,640 hours of activity on behalf of the community of cancer patients and their families participated in the ICA project this year. "Give Kids the World" project As part of the "Give Kids the World" project, child cancer patients and their families go for a week-long holiday to the Children's Village in Florida, United States. This trip is a bonding experience for the family, and allows family members to "recharge their batteries" to deal with a difficult disease requiring long- 63

62 64 term treatment. The families enjoy their stay at the village and receive entrance tickets to parks such as Disney World, Sea World, and Universal Studios, they also receive a vehicle and if necessary, they receive an English speaking escort. About 15 families go on this trip coordinated by Ms. Frieda Kornbrut. Shahak - Social Services for the Community The Shahak project also continues its activity. The ICA runs a cooperative program for the welfare of cancer patients, with new immigrant students integrating in the support network for cancer patients; these students are sent to conduct social and communal activity. The participants are accompanied individually and in a group by the project coordinator, social worker Orit Spira and the regional social workers throughout their volunteer work in the project. In January a training group was held for IMPACT and Shahak project participants, led by Orit Spira. Amidudu Project Ms. Tal Zolotogora runs this project at Schneider Children's Medical Center. This ICA-financed project has children prepare colorful dolls built on chemotherapy stands. Creating these dolls cause the treatment time go by faster and gets young patients' minds off their difficult treatments. Carriage Theater Project The Carriage Theater Project, under the direction of Mr. Erez Meshulam, continues its activity at the Pediatric Oncology Ward at the Hadassah Medical Center with financial assistance from the ICA. Erez helps patients and their families and friends to discover transparent "circles of strength" through the theater medium, which allow child patients, and their close environment to cope and overcome the disease. "Young Adult Cancer Survivors Embarking on Life" The "Young Adults Embarking on Life" group is a community that was conceived by the ICA and designed to provide a supportive setting to meet the needs of young single cancer survivors between the ages of 20 and 30. The group consists of members who were "caught" by the disease just as they were about to begin their adult life and who must make a start from a particularly problematic starting point. The ICA initiated a program that was created to provide a warm environment by a support group that holds weekly meetings led by social workers Orit Sapira and Rachel Ofir. Ongoing accompaniment and support is offered to the young members according to their special needs. Several new groups open during the course of the year. Upon the conclusion of the meetings, social activities are offered, like trips, parties and various events. These activities are conducted by dedicated volunteers, with support from the ICA, "Haruah Hatova" Association and earmarked contributions collected by project volunteers. Jeep tours and parties are held throughout the country during the course of the year. "Young Adults" crossed the Sea of Galilee on a Raft About 30 young adults, between the ages of 20 and 30, who are members of the ICA "Young Adults Embarking on Life" Group, got together on a summer weekend in early August for a unique experience: they built their own rafts, and together, they crossed

63 the Sea of Galilee. The members of the group met on Hokok Beach and began building the rafts. On Friday, after a night of a singing, they sailed toward Dugit Beach and crossed the Sea of Galilee. The joint activity provides a kind of mutual support that only a 'person who's been there' can provide. The rafting was made possible by the ICA in collaboration the "Haruah Hatova" Association. The Young Adults Embark on a Challenge Journey along the Coast of Holland At the end of August a group of about 20 Young Adults accompanied by Central Region Social Worker Orit Spira and Dr. Mark Shilkrot, Oncologist at Rambam Health Care Campus, and volunteers Ms. Liat Sakuk and Mr. Amir Chayat, and Young Adult Graduate, Mr. Dan Rubinstein, gathered for a challenge sail off the northern coast of Holland. According to tradition, the trip is made on an authentic sailboat on the North Sea facing the magical shores of Holland. On the journey, the participants steered the ship, hoisted the sails, prepared food, cleaned and maintained the ship. They also went on hikes and bike trips along the picturesque islands of Holland. The journey was made possible with resources collected by dedicated volunteers and with the help of a special performance initiated by popular singer Ohad Chitman, graduate of the Young Adult group. Ongoing Activity of Regional Social Workers Initial Material Assistance for Cancer Patients Initial material assistance activity for cancer patients recently diagnosed with the disease continued to assist thousands of families. The assistance is usually provided until the community and National Insurance services enter the families' homes. Workshop to train new volunteers held in Nahariya, Migdal Ha'emek, Tiberias and Carmiel, led by Mr. Tzvika Biran, Coordinator of the northern branches of the ICA and northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz. A group of volunteers who will make home visits was set up. The group will collaborate with the home hospice, Clalit Healthcare Services and is geared toward all Haifa residents. The volunteers will undergo training and will be accompanied by social worker Olga Agur of Clalit Healthcare Services and northern region social worker, Ariela Litvitz. Guidance group for communit y volunteers A guidance group for community volunteers was held once every month at the ICA Netanya branch in the central region, led by Ms. Orit Spira central region social worker. Cooperation between social work students at Tel Hai College and ICA This is the second year of cooperation between Tel Hai College and ICA Rehabilitation and Welfare Dept., in which college students assist in developing activities for cancer patients in the Kiryat Shemona area. Physical activity classes are planned, as well as information days and additional activities. Northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz, oversees and accompanies the students' activities. Three National Service girls, serving at Soroka Medical Center, and a National Service girl 65

64 The Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt Activity and Support Center in Haifa The Activity and Support Center in Haifa, established two years ago, is a support center for cancer patients and their families. The center operates under the auspices of the ICA and with financial assistance from donators. The center is a place where the patient, the recovering patient and his/her family may find diverse activities to assist them in their psychological, emotional and physical struggle with the disease, which complement the treatment provided by the medical system. All meetings for patients and their families are provided free of charge. About 200 recovering patients and their families currently participate in these activities. 66 Center Activities Support groups body-soul, from illness to health, widows/widowers, siblings of cancer patients. Physical activities 5 activities are held each week: Feldenkreiz, yoga, Chi Kong, Pilates and belly dancing. Workshops 2 workshops are conducted at the center: music therapy and photography as a form of expression. Classes art class (in all realms of art in order to provide a wide range of subjects). Individual and couple sexual treatment geared toward patients and their families who are interested in individual meetings, consultation and guidance. Lectures a lecture meeting is held once every month on relevant subjects. The center is currently working on additional "culture over a cup of coffee" meetings, which will also be held at the same frequency. Library we set up a library several months ago. New activities scheduled for the coming year: A choir is currently in the initial set-up stages, and will be conducted by a professional conductor, a drama therapy group will be led by psychologistsocial worker who is a group moderator, there will be a class on "drawing as a therapeutic perspective", which will be delivered by professionals, personal-group coaching group to be led by a social worker specializing in this subject, and workshops for professionals will be delivered by Ms. Frieda Kornbrut, ICA speech therapist.

65 serving at Barzilai Medical Center, assist the professional staff attending to cancer patients and their families. The girls are guided by Ms. Rachel Ofir, southern region social worker. Seven National Service girls are active in pediatric oncology wards at Schneider Children's Medical Center and Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. They are guided by northern region social worker Ariela Litvitz. In mid-december, a meeting was held for cancer patients who are members of the Maccabi Healthcare fund in the Krayot region, on "Information, rights and services for the cancer patient". Northern region social worker Ariela Litvtiz lectured at the meeting on: "Services and assistance provided by the ICA with an emphasis on body-soul activity". Joint professional meetings were held between southern region social worker Rachel Ofir, and the staff of Ma'agan Be'er Sheva to review problems and mutual ideas for developing additional projects for the welfare of cancer patients at Ma'agan in Be'er Sheva. In May a professional meeting was held with oncology nurses of the Maccabi Healthcare Fund southern region, under the tutelage of Ms. Mali Patihi, Oncology Coordinating Nurse. An overview of ICA activities and various projects was provided by southern region social worker Rachel Ofir. This was followed by an open discussion among the participants, which included the possibilities for cooperation in daily work. The Wellness Community - The "Strong Together" Support Center for Cancer Patients The Wellness Community "Strong Together" center, established 7 years ago, is a support center for cancer patients and their families, according to the American model. It operates through Beit Mati and is run by the ICA. The Tel Aviv School of Social Work and the School of Health Professions provide professional patronage to projects and research activities. "Strong Together" serves as a home within the community that offers patients and their families diverse activities which assist them in emotionally coping with the disease in addition to the treatment provided by the medical system. All the meetings for patients and their families are offered free of charge. About 700 patients and their families currently participate in these activities. Diverse activities held over the past year Support groups- cancer is a personal, couple, and family journey. Support groups enable patients and their families to expand their ways of coping with cancer. The center has 11 support groups: groups for patients who are at the initial stages of the disease, patients who have a recurrent disease, as well as groups for families, parents and bereaved family members. 3 additional groups out of the 11 existing groups joined over the past year: the group for bereaved family members and 2 groups for patients with recurrent disease. Physical activities for strengthening body-soul- 10 activities are held each week: Feldenkreiz, yoga, Chi Kong, Pilates (twice a week), physical coaching and salsa dancing. The last two activities were added this year. 67

66 68 Workshops - there are 6 workshops at the center: nutrition and cooking, personal coaching, humor and laughter, psychodrama and 2 art therapy groups. The last 4 workshops were added this year. Individual and family treatment geared toward patients and their families who are interested in individual meetings and one-time consultation and guidance meetings. Lectures 3 lectures or "Wellness Café" meetings are held every month, and they are conducted on a voluntary basis for the most part, for example: "The magic of color", "Conflict between women Sara and Hager", "Geishas and Japanese rituals". Library we set up a library over the past year, and we have opened a reading hall. The plan is to hold 3-4 such meetings each year. Trips we hold 3-4 trips each year throughout Israel. Last February, there was a trip to Haifa on the subject of the three major religions and in June there was a tour to the northern border in the wake of the Second Lebanon War. Community Activity in conjunction with the Tel Aviv Municipality welfare services, there have been community meetings in Ramat Aviv, in Jaffa and in Shapira neighborhood and at Day Care centers for adults. In Ramat Gan and Givatayim meetings were held with social workers to heighten awareness about families coping with cancer. In affiliation with the IAI Human Resources Dept., there were groups for employees who are patients and for employees who have a patient in their family. The following is planned for the coming year Support group for couples with one member who has cancer, to discuss maintaining couplehood in the face of the disease; Nature therapy group for cancer patients and their families launched a new approach which combines group treatment with unique landscapes; Evaluation research on the contribution of physical activity to patients' souls, conducted in conjunction with Dr. Rina Feigin of the School of Social Work, and Prof. Tamar Karolnik of the Health Professions School; A series of lectures and physical activity delivered at the large clinics of Clalit, Maccabi and Meuhedet Healthcare Funds in collaboration with the multidisciplinary staff. Additionally activity with the Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan and Givatayim Welfare Services will be continued. Additional Activities in the Northern Region Wellness Community Center in Afula the additional branch of the center in Afula, under the auspices of the Israel Cancer Association and courtesy of the Mayor of Afula and the Schneider family, began its activity over the past year. A wide range of activities are held at the center: such as yoga, belly dancing, workshops on music therapy, combined arts, drawing on silk and personal coaching. Similarly, there are trips and lectures are delivered on art and on many other diverse topics. Diverse activities are held at the center such as: yoga, belly dancing, music therapy workshops, combined

67 arts, drawing on silk and personal coaching. Similarly, trips were held and lectures delivered on art and other diverse topics. A yoga group for cancer patients from Nazareth and the surroundings opened in January, led by Ms. Vered Longman. Ms. Longman volunteers her services for the welfare of patients. Mr. Alex Gedalkin, Chairman of the Nazareth Branch of the ICA and northern social worker Ariela Litvitz organize this group. A Yoga group in Carmiel that opened last year continues to operate, led by Mr. Haim Feingold who volunteers his services. Ms. Mira Ron of the ICA Carmiel branch organizes this group along with northern region social worker, Ariela Litvitz. A Tai Chi group, led by Mr. Shlomo Bonomo, opened in April in Acre and was accompanied by Ms. Sonia Shaked, Chairperson of the ICA Acre branch and northern regional social worker Ariela Litvitz. 69

68 The Sir Charles Clore Hostel 70 The Sir Charles Clore Hostel was established by the ICA (in 1976) with the help of a generous contribution provided by Sir Charles Clore of blessed memory. The ICA-run Hostel is located in Givatayim, adjacent to the ICA offices, Beit Mati, in a building encompassed by a beautiful garden. The building was recently renovated with financial assistance from the Clore Foundation, for the welfare of Hostel patients. The Sir Charles Clore Hostel takes in cancer patients who receive treatment at oncology institutes at the large hospitals located in the central region. The Hostel can attend to up to forty patients at once. The Hostel staff consists of certified oncology nurses, headed by Ms. Roma Luria, who have the capacity and experience to assist patients with a wide array of oncology-nursing related problems. The nurses are in regular contact with the attending physicians at the oncology institutes and attend to any side-effects caused by treatments. Senior oncologists from Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center are "on call" in the evenings and at nights. The nursing staff has vast experience in treating patients who require professional supervision, as well as experience in coping with chemical and radiation treatment side-effects and with other diseases from which patients may suffer. In addition, the kitchen staff cooks hot meals on a daily basis with a diverse menu, according to the special needs of each patients, and the cleaning maintenance staff sees to the cleanliness and orderliness of the rooms and provide a warm and homey atmosphere for those residing at the Hostel. About 430 patients were accommodated from January-July 2008, most of whom reside a far distance from the medical institution where they received treatments. The Sir Charles Clore Hostel offers the following services: Accommodations 5 days of the week, from Sunday morning to Thursday afternoon. The Hostel is closed on weekends. Spacious rooms shared by two patients, including en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and a patient-nurse call system. Cultural activities room, TV rooms, arts and crafts room. Three meals a day, including fresh and assorted foods, cooked on site, and adapted to patients' dietary needs. Daily transportation to and from treatments at hospitals, accompanied by trained volunteers. A wide variety of leisure activities: exercise, handicrafts, a tour group that tours the city accompanied by a volunteer, cosmetics, internet station. Support groups and lectures led by professional moderators. The Hostel opened its doors on the Passover holiday for the first time ever, after undergoing a ritual Passover cleaning and receiving a kosher certificate from the Chief Rabbinate of Givatayim. At the kitchen staff meeting, Ms. Frieda Kornbrut, ICA speech therapist delivered a lecture on "Eating difficulties in head-neck patients" and the Hostel information pamphlet was translated into Arabic (through the ICA Information and Education Dept.) and distributed at hospitals. The patients are also invited to participate in diverse activities held by the "Strong Together" support center at Beit Mati adjacent to the Hostel. By the end of the year, courtesy of The Clore Foundation, the patient beds in all rooms will be replaced and significantly upgraded for the welfare of the Hostel patients.

69 Professional Seminars and Conferences ISCORT The Annual Meeting of Israeli Society for Clinical Oncology and Radiation Therapy - ISCORT was held in Eilat in January Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, gave an overview of ICA's extensive activity and awarded a prize to Outstanding Oncologist, Dr. Rabinov Karen of the Oncology Institute at Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva. Prof. Mary Gospodorowicz, of Toronto Canada, whose participation in the conference was sponsored by the Shofar Foundation of Canada, delivered fascinating lectures that had enthusiastic reaction from the audience. Urologic Oncology Group Meetings The Urologic Oncology Group meeting took place in mid-january at Beit Mati, ICA head office. The meeting dealt with "Locally advanced and high risk prostate cancer". The meeting was opened by Dr. Zohar Dotan of the Uro-oncology Service, the Urology Dept. at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, who delivered greetings, followed by the lectures listed below: "Evaluating natural factors in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer" delivered by Dr. Fuad Faras of the Molecular Genetics Dept. at Carmel Medical Center, Haifa. "Definitions and epidemiology of locally advanced prostate cancer and high risk" delivered by Dr. Zohar Dotan, the Urooncologic Service of the Urology Dept. at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Local staging of advanced prostate cancer MRI" delivered by Dr. Tamar Sela, the Radiology Dept. at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "Initial surgical treatment" delivered by Dr. Danny Leibovitz, the Urology Dept. at Assaf Harofe Medical Center. "Initial treatment with radiation and hormonal treatment" delivered by Dr. Zvi Symon, the Brachitherapy Unit, Oncology Dept. at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Towards the end of the conference, case studies were presented for discussion regarding locally advanced and increased risk prostate cancer. The meeting was held courtesy of Abott. An additional meeting of the Uro-oncology Group was held in mid-july at Beit Mati,. The meeting dealt with "Testicular tumors Germ Cell Tumors". The meeting featured the following lectures: "The role of the pathologist in evaluating testicular tumors establishing a diagnosis and risk factors according to radical orchiectomy", delivered by Prof. Romalia Koren, the Dept. of Pathology, Rabin Medical Center Hasharon Hospital. "The role of initial RPLND in treating NSGCT patients" delivered by Dr. Ilan Leibovitch, Urology Dept. at the Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba. "Adjuvant chemotherapy for NSGCT patients - clinical stage 1" delivered by Dr. Michael Vigoda, Oncology Dept., Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. "PC-RPLND selecting patients and oncological results" delivered by Prof. Jacques Baniel, Urology Dept., Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, Petah Tikva. Presenting cases on testicular tumors with the participation of Prof. Jacques Baniel, 71

70 72 Dr. Michael Vigoda, Dr. Ilan Leibovitch, Dr. Avivit Neuman and Prof. Romalia Koren, moderated by Dr. Zohar Dotan, Urology Dept., Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. The meeting was held courtesy of Sanofi-Aventis. Breast Disease Consortium Meetings An Israeli Breast Disease Consortium seminar was held in late January at Beit Mati. The seminar was opened by Prof. Reuven Orda, Chairman of the Breast Disease Consortium, who delivered greetings. The seminar was divided into two parts. In the first part Dr. M. Kurtz of Soroka Medical Center, moderated a discussion: The multidisciplinary breast centers is their existence justified?" Dr. T. Karni of Assaf Harofe Medical Center spoke of the center's experience, and Dr. D. Hershko of Rambam Health Care Campus, spoke of the center's experience. A discussion was held at the end of the first part. The second part was moderated by Prof. R. Catane of Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. A lecture on "Pathological examination during breast surgery" was delivered by Dr. J. Sandbank of Assaf Harofe Medical Center and "Innovations and updates in radiation therapy for breast cancer" was delivered by Dr. M. Ben-David of Sheba Medical Center. Dr. T. Elweiss of Hadassah Medical Center updated attendees on innovations from the San Antonio conference. In conclusion a case study was presented for discussion by Dr. E. Evron of Assaf Harofe Medical Center. An additional seminar of the Israeli Breast Disease Consortium was held in early April. The seminar was led by Dr. Tanir Elweiss of Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem and several subjects were presented: Dr. M. Sklaire Levi of Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem and Prof. Pappa of Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer lectured on evidence based indicators for performing Breast MRIs, Prof. E. Even-Sapir lectured on Imaging of breast cancer using PET-CT, Dr. A. Fisher of Meuhedet Healthcare Fund lectured on advanced breast cancer imaging technologies: from the insurer's perspective, and Prof. A. Kuten of Rambam Health Care Campus and Dr. M. Vigoda of Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, lectured on partial breast radiation. The seminar concluded with several case studies followed by a discussion. Supplementary Training in data collection and medical information regarding colorectal cancer A continuing education course in encoding and reporting colorectal cancer was held at Beit Mati, as part of the supplementary training in cancer disease data collection and medical information for employees at pathology institutes. Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, opened the session by greeting the participants, followed by greetings delivered by Dr. T. Tishler, Oncology Dept. Director, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, and member of the Training Program Planning and Implementation Steering Committee, Dr. M. Bar- Hanna, National Cancer Registry Director, and member of the Steering Committee, Ms. Z. Chona, Training and Continuing Education Coordinator, Training and Development, Ministry of Health, and member of the Steering Committee, and Ms. R. Hecht, Data Collection and Medical Information, Ministry of Health and member of the Steering Committee. Dr. M. Bar- Hana provided an introduction to the subject of colorectal cancer, followed by

71 Ms. Y. Fishler of the Israel Center for Disease Control, Ministry of Health, who lectured on "Colorectal Cancer terminology and definitions and on "Guidelines for morphology encoding a refresher course". Several case studies were presented for practice and reporting by Ms. Fishler, Ms. V. Cohen, National Medical Registrar of the Clalit Healthcare Services and Ms. R. Gil, Medical Data Collection Section of the Health Ministry. The meeting ended with the screening of a training film: "A race with no finish line" followed by feedback and summary. 13th Annual "Tmicha (support)" Society Conference Palliative Care Everyone's right? The 13th Annual "Tmicha" Society conference on "Palliative care everyone's right?" was held in late January at the Dan Panorama Hotel in Tel Aviv and was opened with greetings delivered by Dr. Yehoram Zinger, Chairman of the Tmicha Society, the Unit for Palliative Care at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva and Calalit Healthcare Services, southern region, as well as greetings delivered by Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General. Dr. Bilha Noi of Jerusalem shared her personal story "Revealing inner strength", Prof. Muli Lahad, Resources - Tel Hai Academic College, lectured on "Life and Death from a multicultural perspective", Dr. Amitai Oberman, Acting Director, Geriatric Dept. of the Poriya Medical Center, and Dr. Doron Garfinkel, Director of the Diagnosis and Rehabilitation Dept. and the Palliative Care Unit at the Center for Geriatric Medicine in Pardes Hanna, lectured on "Enhancing the palliative perception in the 21st century: The right of the patient, the duty of the caregiver and the achievement of society and the state". Sessions were held on diverse palliative care fields led by leading professionals, such as palliative care for noncancer diseases, psycho-social aspects of palliative care, end of life dilemmas and the terminally ill patient law and more. 10th Annual Oncology Conference and a workshop on Radiation Therapy for the Head and Neck, Stomach and Rectum The 10th Annual oncology Conference was held in late February in the north of Israel along with a professional workshop on "Radiation Therapy for Head and Neck, Stomach and Rectum Cancer the Factual Basis" at the Dan Carmel Hotel in Haifa. The conference was held under the auspices of the Rambam Health Care Campus, the Rappaport Faculty of Medicine at the Technion, The Israeli Society of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy, the Israel Cancer Association, the Middle East Cancer Consortium (MECC) and Shapira Family. The conference was opened with greetings delivered by Prof. Rafael Bayer, Director of the Rambam Health Care Campus, Prof. Ido Perlman, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the Technion, Prof. Yoram Cohen, Chairman of the Israeli Society of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Prof. Eliezer Robinson, Israel Cancer Association Chairman, and Prof. Avraham Kuten, Director of the Oncology Institute at Rambam Health Care Campus. The conference was divided into two sessions covering various topics such as innovations in treatments for cancer, treatment management and innovative treatment methods. Visitors from abroad, Prof. Vincent Gregory and Prof. Karine Heestermans, Chair people of the European Radiologists Association (EORT) of Belgium and Prof. Sidat Turkan of Istanbul honored the attendees with their presence and delivered fascinating lectures on related fields. 73

72 74 Annual Conference for the Treatment of Cancer The 2nd Annual Conference for the Treatment of Cancer was held at the Hilton Hotel in Tel Aviv in early March. The conference was opened by Prof. Baruch Klein, Director of the Oncology Institute at Meir Medical Center, who later lectured on "Innovations in treatment of colorectal cancer and the significance of early detection". This was followed by a discussion on "metastatic colon tumor removing the metastasis at the initial stage or neo-adjuvant chemotherapy". Prof. Avraham Cherniak, a liver, bladder and pancreas surgery specialist, Director of Surgery A Dept. at Wolfson Medical Center, and Dr. Arie Arish, Director of the Liver and Gallbladder Surgery Service at the Surgery B Dept. at Rambam Health Care Campus, also discussed this subject. Israel Cancer Association Chairman, Prof. Eliezer Robinson, lectured on "The road to recovery - surviving the disease". Two sessions were then held concurrently discussing innovations and updates on esophagus and stomach cancer, ovarian tumors, combined treatments of the stomach cavity, biological treatments for breast cancer, innovative sarcoma treatments, breast reconstruction following mastectomy, palliative radiation treatments and impotence among men undergoing chemotherapy. The sessions concluded with a panel discussion on supplementary insurance policies offered by the healthcare funds. 2nd Annual International Palliative Medicine Conference The 2nd Annual International Palliative Medicine Conference entitled "Palliative Medicine in Diverse Cultures" was held in mid-march at the Herods Hotel in Eilat, sponsored by the ICA. The conference was held for professionals who are engaged and take an interest in palliative care, internal medicine, oncology, geriatrics, pain, rehabilitation, psychiatry, physiotherapy and social work. The conference covered the following subjects: palliative care around the world, palliative medicine as a medical field here and now, palliative medicine's importance for non-cancer diseases, team work, palliative medicine in various medical services, professionalism in palliative medicine, encouraging volunteer support, palliative medicine and spiritual support, palliative medicine research, complementary medicine, spiritual support in diverse cultures, controlling pain, legal aspects in palliative medicine, various approaches to controlling symptoms, quality of life, ethical approaches, etc. 2nd Northern Conference in Oncological Gynecology: "Treating Cancer during Pregnancy" The Second Northern Conference in Oncological Gynecology took place in mid-may and focused on an exceptional topic full of misgivings, fears and doubts among young female cancer patients who must undergo treatment during pregnancy. Dr. Y. Farbstein, Director of Poriya Medical Center, opened the conference with greetings, followed by greetings delivered by Dr. O. Lavi, Chairman of the Israeli Gyneco-oncology Association, Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, Mr. Zohar Oved, Mayor of Tiberias, and Prof. E. Shalev, Chairman of the Maternity and Gynecology Association. The conference was divided into four sessions. The first sessions featured lectures delivered by Dr. P. Argenta of the University of Minnesota, United States, on "Treating cervical cancer during pregnancy", Dr. Y. Shnirer, Director of the Oncology Institute at Poriya Medical Center, Dr. P. Gaston

73 of the University of Minnesota, United States, on "Chemotherapy treatment during pregnancy the impact on mother and fetus and significant aspects". The second session featured lectures delivered by Prof. G. Zidan, Director of the Oncology Institute at Ziv Medical Center in Safed on "Breast cancer during pregnancy", Prof. S. Granai, Director of the National Center of Excellence in Women's Health at Brown University, United States, on "Treating ovarian cancer during pregnancy". This was followed by a round table discussion moderated by Prof. Y. Burnstein which dealt with multidisciplinary treatment during pregnancy about timing the delivery, maturity amniocentesis, steroids, the mother's right to refuse treatment for the fetus, when to get pregnant after cancer and the fetus' right in advanced stage cancer, with Dr. Y. Perlitz, Dr. A. Atlas, Dr. A. Kushnir, Ms. M. Tal and Ms. S. Mitchell participating. The fourth session featured a simulation of tumors during pregnancy presented by Dr. G. Cohn-Hagar, Imagining Dept. of the University of Minnesota a live video broadcast from the University of Minnesota. Towards the end there was a round table discussion by live video broadcast with the University of Minnesota led by Prof. S. Granai. The Israeli panel consisted of Dr. P. Argenta, Dr. P. Gaston, Dr. T. Levi Dr.O. Lavi. The American Panelists were Prof. Linda Carson, and Dr. G. Levi, and three case studies were opened up for discussion by Dr. Y. Ben David, Dr. A. Amit and Dr. A. Atlas. Pediatric Radiation Therapy Seminar A seminar on pediatric radiation therapy was held in mid-may at Beit Mati. The initiating force behind this event, Ms. S. Gardin, Head Nurse of the Radiation Unit at Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, opened the seminar along with Ms. H. Yaniv, Oncology Nurse and Artist, who lectured on "Danny at the Radiation Institute" on how to prepare children for radiation therapy through storytelling. This was followed by a lecture delivered by Dr. Y. Yaniv, Director of the Hemato-oncology Unit, Schneider Children's Medical Center on "Radiation in children- the pros and cons". Dr. M. Vigoda, Director of the Radiotherapy Unit, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, lectured on "Fundamentals of pediatric radiation treatment". Ms. A. Pillin, Radiation Treatment Coordinator, and Ms. S. Treister, Movement Therapist at the Hemato-oncology Complex, Schneider Children's Medical Center lectured on "Preparing children between the ages of 3.5 and 6 for radiation treatment, by multi-professional staff". Dr. Z. Shenkman, Anesthesiologist at the Anesthesia Unit at Sheba medical Center at Tel Hashomer, lectured on "Fundamentals in anesthetizing children for radiation therapy". Ms. R. Elkayam, Head Nurse at the Radiation Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, lectured on "Pediatric radiation therapy treatment process and anesthetizing children experience of the Radiation Unit at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer". Ms. R. Uziel, Radiation Unit, Rambam, Academic Human Health Center, lectured on "Accompanying children and preparing them for and during radiation therapy experience of the Radiation Unit at Rambam". Teachers and Graduates of INPACT National Training Courses for Palliative Care A meeting of teachers and graduates of national training courses for palliative care was held in mid-may at Beit Mati, aimed to heighten the awareness of palliative care. The meeting 75

74 76 was opened by Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General. Her greetings were followed by a lecture delivered by Dr. N. Cherny, Director of the Palliative Care Unit at the Oncology Institute, Shaare Zedek Medical Center, on "Sedation as treatment for treatment-resistant symptoms at end of life", Ms. Y. Dreyer, Head Nurse of the Hemato-oncoloy Unit at Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hoxpital, lectured on "Sleep disorders and palliative care", followed by reports from the round on initiatives to promote palliative care in the wake of the continuing education course, and Prof. P. Schwartzman, Director of the Dept. of Family Medicine and Sial Center, Pain Treatment and Palliative Care Unit at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Clalit Healthcare Services, southern region, lectured on "How to enhance palliative care". Meeting of the National Genetics, Ethics and Law Forum The Genetic and Bioethics Policy Unit, headed by Prof. Goldman, holds seminars in the National Genetics Ethics and Law Forum. Figuring among the consortium members are senior research, medical, legal and social science professionals. The Consortium aims to clarify and discuss ethical and legal issues relating to genetics. The two previous meetings that were held discussed the issue of "DNA databases for investigation, enforcement and prevention" and "The umbilical cord blood bank law legal, ethical and social aspects" which had great resonance with the audience. In late May, an additional meeting was held, entitled "Breast Cancer and Genetics scientific wish for social implementation" with ICA Director General, Miri Ziv participating. Joint Seminar of the ICA and the Israeli Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology on childhood and adolescent cancer A seminar for parents of children with childhood and adolescent cancer led by Prof. M. Ben Harush, Chairman of the Israeli Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology was held at Beit Mati in early June. ICA Director General, Mrs. Miri Ziv, and Prof. Ben Harush opened the seminar, delivering opening remarks, followed by lectures on "General overview and epidemiology of childhood and adolescent malignancies" delivered by Prof. M. Ben Harush. "The genetic basis for childhood cancer" delivered by Prof. G. Rechavi, Director of the Cancer Research Center, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Using imaging tools for the diagnosis and monitoring of childhood malignancies" delivered by Dr. O. Konen, Imaging Dept., Schneider Children's Medical Center. "Using PET CT technologies in childhood malignancies", delivered by Prof. E. Even Sapir, Director of the Nuclear Medicine Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center. "Innovations in treatment approach for childhood malignancies" delivered by Dr. A. Toren, Director of Pediatric Hematology- Oncology Dept., Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Using Radiotherapy (radiation treatment) to treat childhood malignancies" delivered by Prof. A. Kuten, Head of the Oncology Complex, Rambam Human Health Center. "Bone marrow transplants in children" delivered by Dr. Y. Yaniv, Director of the Hematology-Oncology Complex, Schneider Children's Hospital. "New techniques for preserving fertility in girls and female adolescents" delivered by Dr. A. Horovitz,

75 in vetro fertilization unit, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. "Complementary medicine in pediatric oncology" delivered by Mr. O. Hargash, Dip.Ac, Chinese medicine therapist, Schneider Children's Medicla Center. "Parents' psychosocial coping with their children's disease" delivered by Dr. E. Glili-Weistaub, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Unit, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem. The seminar ended with a question and answer panel led by Prof. Y. Kapelushnik, Director of the Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Institute at Soroka Medical Center. Annual Seminar of the Israel Oncology Nursing Society The Annual Seminar of the Israel Oncology Nursing Society was held in mid-june at "Avenue", at the airport complex (Airport City). Dr. I. Asher opened the seminar with a lecture on "Innovative trends in oncology in the 21st century, the merger of biotechnology, nanotechnology and neurotechnology", Ms. I. Buchwal and Ms. N. Schneider lectured on "The Society on the Web", Ms. S. Ben Ami, Society Chairperson, and Ms. L. Kislev, ICA Head Nurse, lectured on "Leadership workshop for oncology nurses in the Middle East". The day was divided into five concurrent sessions with each session focusing on a different topic coping strategies, support and treatment for childhood cancer, community nursing, enhancing service, health and quality of life, telephone intervention, breast cancer, developing the roles of oncology nurse, post-trauma responses and workshop on coping for supporting staff. The ICA marked Cancer Research Day in Israel for the first time this year ICA Cancer Day was held for the first time in mid-june. This special day was initiated by Research Committee Chairman, Prof. Y. Yarden. About 120 cancer research scientists from all over Israel participated in this special day, which featured Israeli scientists presenting a wide range of research studies conducted with funding from the ICA. Since its inception, the ICA has invested tremendous resources in financing clinical, basic, epidemiological and psycho-social research grants. The scope of ICA investment in research over the past decade is estimated at about 50 million shekels. This day was the beginning of a tradition to be held every year. The Research Day seeks to increase reciprocity within the cancer researcher community in Israel, and hosts different research scientists, with the aim of information exchange and creating a dynamic forum for new collaborative efforts, mainly between oncologists and research scientists. Financing research that produces results which may advance the fight against the disease get us one step closer to our goal of eradicating the disease. For more information about this special day please see the "Research" Chapter. Spring and summer meetings of the Israel Gynecologic Oncology Society The spring meeting of the Israel Gynecologic Oncology Society was held in late March in collaboration with the Israel Society for Complementary Medicine at Beit Mati. The meeting dealt with "Integrative medicine: the combination of complementary medicine in gynecologic oncology treatment". The meeting was opened by Dr. O. Lavi, Chairman 77

76 78 of the Israel Gynecologic Oncology Society and Dr. E. Ben Arie, Director of the Unit for Complementary and Traditional Medicine, Family Medicine Dept., Haifa, Chairman of the Israel Society for Complementary Medicine, who delivered greetings. The meeting was divided into three sessions. The first session dealt with the "Integration of complementary medicine in the Medical Establishment" and included the following lectures: "Complementary medicine integrated in oncological service the integrative challenge" delivered by Dr. E. Ben Arie. "Treatment with complementary medicine for patient symptoms during oncological treatment with an emphasis on EBM" delivered by Dr. E. Shiff, Bnei Zion Medical Center, Director of the Ethics, Law and Complementary Medicine Unit, Haifa University. "Art therapy for the oncological patient" delivered by Ms. Y. Barak and Ms. Y. Bruno, Art Therapists with an anthrophosophical approach. The second session dealt with "Safety, risks and ethics in the Integrative Treatment" and featured the following lectures: "Safety and risks in complementary treatment from myth to EBM" delivered by Dr. O. Kaspi, Director of Integrative Medicine at Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital. "Interactions between nutrition and plant supplements and chemotherapy and radiotherapy" delivered by Dr. L. Goldstein, Clinical Pharmacology Service, Ha'emek Medical Center. "Ethical aspects of combined treatment in oncology" delivered by Ms. N. Vichner, International Center for Health, Law and Ethics, Haifa University The third session opened a round table discussion dealing with the outline of the integrative plan for gynecological oncology patients, moderated by Dr. O. Lavi, and with Dr. E. Ben Arie, Dr. E. Shiff, Dr. O.Kaspi, Prof. U. Beller, Prof. B. Fiora and Dr. H. Levavi participating. The summer meeting of the Israel Gynecologic Oncology Society was held in late June at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Ashkelon. The meeting opened with greetings delivered by Dr. O. Lavi, Chairman of the Israel Gynecologic Oncology Society, and Dr. S. Sherf, Director of the Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon. Prof. U. Beller introduced the guest lecturer Prof. I. Jacobs, Dean Health Sciences Research and Director of the University College London Institute for Women's Health, who lectured on "Recent developments in ovarian cancer screening English experience". Dr. O. Lavi introduced Prof. E. Levi-Lahad, Director of the Genetics Unit at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, who lectured on "Has the time come to screen the Israeli population for BRCA1,2 mutation carriers? Developments in research on Israeli males". Dr. Ofer Gemer introduced Prof. L. Unger, Director of the Gynecologic Oncology Unit at the National Institute of Oncology in Budapest Hungary, who lectured on "Updates on the results of radical surgery and preservation of fertility in cervical cancer". Prof. I. Jacobs lectured once again towards the end of the meeting on "Preliminary cervical cancer screening in the Third World". Annual Israel Radiology Association Conference The Annual Israel Radiology Association Conference took place in late October at the Dan Eilat Hotel. As in previous years,

77 the conference hosted the members of the AFIIM French-Israel Medical Association of Imaging. The conference program included a refresher course devoted to pelvic and pediatric imaging. Many international lecturers were invited to this year's conference: Prof. Herbert Carsel and Prof. Daniel Kopens of the United States, Prof. Katherine Garelle and Prof. Marc Sefobel of France, Prof. John Spencer of England and Prof. Fred Avni of Belgium. Among the local guests were Prof. Hadassah Degani of the Weizmann Institute and Dr. Sigal Sedetzki of the Gartner Institute, whose research on the impact of cellular phone radiation financed by the ICA has evoked tremendous response. The guest of honor at this year's conference was Prof. Rina Tadmor one of Israel's pioneers in neuro-radiology. Joint Conference on "Prevention and early detection of malignant diseases: innovations and controversies" The Joint Israeli Association of Public Health Physicians, Israeli Association of Family Physicians, Israel Association of Oncology and ICA Conference on "Prevention and early detection of malignant diseases: innovations and disagreements" was held in late November at Kfar Hamaccabiya in Ramat Gan. Plenary lectures were delivered at the conference with experts from Israel and abroad participating, and sessions were held to discuss controversial issues involved in the prevention and early detection of malignant diseases.. Further information on ICA sponsorship of scientific conferences may be found in the chapters: "Professional Training" and "International Conferences". 79

78 Professional Training 80 In view of the fact that precise data and proper conclusions are derived from broad-based research studies, the ICA encourages Israeli centers to participate in international clinical research conducted under the auspices of EORTC (the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer). As a branch of the large scale project, the centers participating in clinical research studies are under high quality supervision and quality control. Prof. A. Kuten is a member of the Steering Committee of the EORTC Radiotherapy Group. This year as well, the ICA continues to support the participation of Oncology Departments in EORTC Radiotherapy Group activities with the aim of encouraging them to participate in general European clinical research. The ICA supports the participation of research students and interns in the annual conference of the Cancer Biology Research Center. The ICA finances the purchase of professional literature and scientific journals for oncology departments in medical centers throughout the country. Thanks to this project, new and up to date information is available to professionals. Likewise, the ICA Information Center is a resource available to professionals, where they may conduct a search of international computerized databases. Clinical Research Project 2008 The ICA continues to fund basic or clinical research projects carried out by oncology interns at Oncology Institutes, in order to encourage research work in these settings. This year's grant recipients were: Dr. Pfeffer, Dr. Weizen, Dr. Ofir and Dr. Morag of Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer advanced study course in Milan, Italy, on research promotion and treatment of sarcoma patients. Dr. Avivit Pe'er of Rambam Health Care Campus advanced study course in eurooncology in North Carolina, United States, in December Dr. Nicola Nassar of Shaare Zedek Medical Center, research on the antiangionic properties of pegylated liposomal doxorubicin. Dr. Alon Aharon of Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Hospital, research on mesomark in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma. Dr. David Geffen of Soroka Medical Center, advanced study course on clinical research and lab studies on breast cancer in the Oncology Dep. at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer. Travel Grants for Long-Term Advanced Study Abroad Dr. Shaul Avraham, Hematology Ward, Rambam Health Care Campus, advanced study course in the impact of a transplant against lymphoma in mycosis fungoides patients in London, England from June 07 June 09. Dr. Menachem Bitan, Hemato-ocnology Unit, Dana Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, advanced study course in the Hematology Oncology and Bone

79 Unique program initiated by the Israeli Society of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy and the Israel Cancer Association: Physician-Patient Communication workshop for physicians and interns The ICA in collaboration with the Israeli Society of Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy launched a unique program for imparting physician-patient communication skills in oncology. In the current state of affairs, in which physicians are burnt out, oncologists in particular, imparting a skill which will reduce the tension and frustration is of utmost importance. Practicing and imparting communication skills have been found to have a positive effect on the work of professional staff engaged in treating cancer. The method and nature of the communication between physicians and patients have an impact not only on patients and on their family, but also on the physicians. The impact is also on the decisions physicians will make during treatment of the patient and on their feelings as caregivers. While oncology interns in Israel are exposed to many different possibilities to broaden their scientific and clinical knowledge in diagnosis and treatment of the disease, there is no framework that enables development and practicing of skills in the field of communication and physician-patient relations. This field is an important component in the training of an intern and it is a tool that the intern requires in his/her daily coping. Practice through simulation has been successfully endeavored in several fields of medicine and has set new standards of impacting clinical and practical skills to and interns alike and is increasingly being used. The center for medical simulation MSR has garnered experience and an international reputation in training medical staff in different situations with which they cope. This center has developed a kit of prevalent scenarios in the realm of oncology combining a workshop designed to impart physician-patient communication. The following situations figure among the scenarios: delivering bad news, coping with the advanced stages of the disease, suggesting expensive drugs, participating in clinical trials, etc. The workshop participants were shown different situations that were enacted by professional actors and each scenario was analyzed and studied. The workshop was held in the basic sciences of Dr. Shani Palloch-Shimon and led by Dr. Amitai Ziv, Managing irector of MSR, Dr. Natan Cherny and Dr. Bella Kaufman. Four days of coaching were held during the year for interns who have completed at least one a year of internship and one special workshop was held for physicians specializing in oncology. The program was held courtesy of Roche Pharmaceuticals Israel Ltd. 81

80 82 Marrow Transplant Division at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, United States, from July 2008-July Dr. Friedman Tal, Plastic Surgery Dept., Assaf Harofe Medical Center, advanced study course in reconstructive plastic surgery scheduled to take place at the University of Pittsburgh, United States, from Sept to Sept Dr. Eiran Sharon, Surgery A Dept., Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Hospital, advanced study course in breast oncology surgery scheduled to take place at the University of Toronto Hospital, Canada, from July 1, 2008 to June 30, Dr. Nethanel Avraham Horowitz, the Institute of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplants, Rambam Health Care Campus, advanced study course on hemostatic system components and NK cells influence on metastatic potential and innate immunity, Cinncinati Ohio, the United States, from May 1, 2008-May 1, Dr. Zvi Vaknin, Gynecology Dept. Assaf Harofe Medical Center, advanced study course on gynecologic oncology, Montréal, Canada, from July 1, 2008 to June 30, Katya Voskoboynik, Institute of Pathology, Bnei Zion Medical Center, advanced study course at the School of Cytotechnology, Los Angeles, California, from August 2008 August Dr. Daniela Katz, Oncology Dept. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, advanced study course on sarcoma tumors at M.D. Anderson Texas, United States, from September August Dr. Ehud Miller, Plastic Surgery Dept. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, advanced study course on MOHS surgery, Holland, from January 30, 2010 to January 15, Dr. Helena Martinez de Morentin, Skin dept. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, advanced international study course on Dermascopy. Meron Tikva, Dept. of Radiotherapy, Rambam Health Care Campus, advanced study course on palliative care for advanced stage cancer patients, University of Nottingham in England, from September 2008 September Dr. Einat Shalom-Paz, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, advanced study course on fertility preservation, Montréal Canada, from August 2008 August Dr. Judit Haver Kraus, Institute of Pathology, Ha'emek Medical Center, Afula, advanced study course on the role of sunburn in the cause of melanoma, New York, United States, from October 1, 2008 to March 31, Dr. Shani Paluch-Shimon, Oncology Complex, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, advanced study course for

81 master's degree studies in epidemiology to be held by correspondence with the University of London as of October Invitations to Guest Lecturers from Abroad Prof. Avinoam Shofar, Director of the Neurology Dept. at Schneider Children's Medical Center and Dr. Yitzhak Yaniv, Director of the Hematology Oncology Complex at Schneider Children's Medical Center, initiated the invitation of Prof. Roger Packer to a conference on New Horizons in Neurofibromatosis, April 28, Dr. Yehiel Ziv, Chairman of the Israel Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery initiated the invitation of Dr. Marvin l. Corman of New York, United State, to lecture at the Israel Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery, held on October 25, Sara Ben Ami, Chairperson of Oncology Nursing Society initiated the invitation of Ms. Barbara Summers of Dallas, United State, to lecture at the Middle East regional conference held at the Ein Gedi Guest House, from December 13-15, Dr. Ilan Atlas, of the Gyneco-oncology Dept. at Padeh Medical Center, Tiberias, initiated the invitation of Prof. Skip Granai, Director of the Women's Cancer Treatment Center at Brown University, United States, Dr. Peter Argenta, gynecologic oncologist of the University of Minnesota, and Prof. Patricia Judson gynecologic oncologist of the University of Minnesota to lecture at a conference on Cancer Treatment during Pregnancy held in May 2008 at Baruch Padeh Medical Center, Tiberias. Prof. Miriam Ben-Harush, Director of the Pediatric Hemato-oncology Ward at Meyer Children's Hospital, Haifa, initiated the invitation of Dr. Patte Catherine of Paris, Head of the National Pediatric Lymphoma Protocol and Dr. Alfred Reiter of Germany to lecture at the Annual Pediatric Oncology Conference held on April 14, Prof. Schlomo Schneebaum, Chairman of the Israel Society for Surgical Oncology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, initiated the invitation of Prof.E. Eggermont of Holland to lecture at the Bi-Annual Conference of the Israel Society for Surgical Oncology, held from February 14-15, Dr. Shlomit Perry, Chairperson of the Israel Society for Psycho-oncology and Dr. Miri Cohen initiated the invitation of Prof. Lodovico Balducci of Florida, United States, to lecture at the Psycho-oncology and Geriatrics Conference held in November 2008, with financial assistance from the Lea and Eliyahu Arbel Foundation. Dr. Ofer Lavi, Chairman of the Israeli Society of Gyneco-oncology initiated the invitation of Prof. Ian Jacobs to lecture at the summer meeting of the Israeli Society of Gyneco-oncology held on June 27, 2008 in Ashkelon. Dr. Yitzhak Yaniv, Director of the Hematooncology Complex at Schneider Children's Medical Center initiated the invitation of Dr. Timothy Triche of Los Angeles United States, to lecture at the conference on: euing's sarcoma: past, present and future, in memory of Prof. Rina Zaizov of blessed memory, held on June 26,

82 84 Support for Professional Conferences As per the request of Prof. Miriam Ben- Harush, Chairperson of the Israel Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, the ICA assisted in financing the Annual Conference of the Israel Society of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology held from March 13-15, 2008 in Mitzpe Ramon. As per the request of Dr. Amitai Oberman, Director of the Geriatric Ward, Poriyah Medical Center, the ICA assisted in financing the Annual Conference of the `Support` Association held on January 23, 2008 at the Dan Panorama Hotel. As per the request of Dr. Amit Amnon, Director of the Gyneco-oncology Dept. at Rambam Health Care Campus, the ICA assisted in financing the workshop for reinforcing the infrastructure of the multiprofessional staff in their professional and humanitarian efforts. International Conferences As per the request of Dr. Orly Toren, Nursing Director at Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, the ICA assisted in financing the lectures on nursing research at the International Nursing Conference held from June 30, 2008 to July 3, 2008 at the Inbal Hotel in Jerusalem. As per the request of Dr. Michaela Berkovitz, Chairperson of the Society of Palliative Care, the ICA financed her participation and that of nine nurses at the International Conference of the Society of Palliative Care at Herrods Hotel that took place from March 19-22, Travel Grants for Short-Term Advanced Study Abroad and Participation in International Conferences Dr. Avior Galit, EEG Unit, Head and Neck Surgery at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center Advanced Study Course on neck surgery and head & neck oncology held in Paris, France from April 1 June 30, Hashem Awad, Pediatric Hematooncology, Rambam Health Care Campus International Pediatric Oncology Conference held in October 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Dr. Arad-Cohen Nira, Pediatric Hematooncology Dept., Rambam Health Care Campus International pediatric oncology Conference SIOP- held in October 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Ben-Gal Yael, Schneider Children's Medical Center International Pediatric Oncology Conference held in October 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Barhad Rachel, Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Rambam Health Care Campus World Bone Marrow Transplant Conference held in Florence, Italy in March, Dr. Bernstein Zvi, Oncology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus PET Applications for Radiology Planning Course held in November 2008 in Vienna, Austria. Dreyfus Tamar, Oncology Institute, Soroka Medical Center Multidisciplinary Research Conference held in July 2008 in Prato, Italy.

83 Dreyer Yehudit and Anat Peck, Hematooncology Unit, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital Oncology Nurses International Conference held in Singapore in August Dr. Eyal Golderberg, Upper Galilee Hospice Palliative Medicine Conference held in September 2008 in Montreal, Canada. Dr. Yaakov Goshen, Pediatric Hematooncology Ward, Schneider Children's Medical Center work meeting of the coordinators for pediatric protocol for Soft Tissue Sarcoma held in Milan, Italy in September Dr. Kagna Olga, Oncology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus PET Applications for Radiology Planning held in November 2008 in Vienna, Austria. Katz Yaakov, Distric Pharmacist Ministry of Health, Ramle District Oncology Pharmacology Conference held in June 2008 in California, United States. Kislev Livia, Israel Cancer Association continuing education course in oncology nursing held in Sofia, Bulgaria in March Prof. Don Krast, Tissue Typing Dept., Rabin Medical Center - Beilinson Hospital - Conference on Innovative Technologies in Life Sciences held in February 2008 in Utah, United States. Kreitman-Butansky Yehudit, Oncology Institue, Soroka Medical Center Advanced Study Course on Radiotherapy for Radiology Physicists held in June 2008 in Toledo, Spain. Dr. Levi Yitzhak, Infectious Diseases Unit, Schneider Children's Medical Center scientific conference on infectious diseases in immuno-repressed patients held in June 2008 in Saloniki, Greece. Suar Mahul-Huri, Pediatric Oncology Ward, Meyer Children's Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus - SIOP Conference (pediatric oncology) held in October 2008 in Berlin, Germany. Dr. Michaelson-Cohen Rachel, Gynecooncology Dept., Shaare Zedek Medical Center 39th Annual Conference of the American Society of Gynecologic Oncology held in March 2008 in Florida, United States. Nevelsky Alexander, Oncology Ward, Rambam Health Care Campus Advanced Study Course on radiobiology held in England in April, Ovadia Ronni, Hemato-oncology Day Care Center, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer Advanced Study Course on oncology nursing held in March 2008 in Sofia, Bulgaria. Anat Peles-Burtz, Hemato-oncology Ward, Schneider Children's Medical Center - Conference of the American Society of Pediatric Oncology Nurses held in September 2008 in Albuquerque, United States. 85

84 86 Piatgorskaya Vera, Oncology Center, Sheba Medical Center Annual Conference of the ESTRO European Society held in September 2008 in Sweden. Dr. Reines Rinat, Gynecological and Obstetrics Ward, Shaare Zedek Medical Center Advanced Study Course on gyneco-oncological surgeries held at the Groningen University Hospital, Holland from March 15-June 15, Dr. Shalom Jim, Upper Galilee Hospice course in Education and Leadership in Palliative Care held in April 2008 in Boston, United States. Sharon Marina, Oncology Ward, Rambam Health Care Campus Annual Conference of the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists held in June 2008 in Cleveland, Ohio, United States. Shoger Varda, Plastic Clinic, Rambam Health Care Campus - 15th International Conference on Cancer Nursing, held in August 2008 in Singapore. Dr. Yael Sobol, Surgery A Dept., Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Advanced Study Course on Breast Surgery held from Dec March 7, 2008 in San Antonio, United States. Dr. Toledano Helene, Pediatric Oncology, Schneider Children's Medical Center Conference on Brain Tumors in Children held in June 2008 in Chicago, United States. Tonin Rina, School of Nursing and Oncology Clinic, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem Advanced Study Course on oncology nursing held in Sofia, Bulgaria in March Yisraeli Moshe, Tissue Typing Lab, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital Annual ASHI conference, held in October 2008 in Toronto, Canada. Zakkai Anat, Breast Health Center, Assaf Harofe Medical Center Psycho-oncology Conference held in Madrid, Spain in June Zohar Hana, Oncology Institute, Rambam Health Care Campus 39th Annual Conference of the American Society of Gynecologic Oncology held in March 2008 in Florida, United States. Summer Grants The ICA continues its summer grants program for medical students at oncology institutes. This year s grant recipients were: Liat Zwergel, Rambam Health Care Campus Wafa Bilan, Rambam Health Care Campus Gila Beikin, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem Ligomski Haggai, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer Yifat Weiner, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer

85 Summer Grants Groningen, Holland For the 12th consecutive year, the WHO organized a two-week international course in oncology for medical students held at the University of Groningen, Holland and alternatively in Vienna, courtesy of the UICC. The course covers oncology-related subjects, and places an emphasis on the principles of prevention, early detection and palliative care. The ICA believes that it is imperative that physicians be involved in these fields; hence, this year as well, it was decided to grant 2 scholarships to medical students from Israeli higher institutes of education, so that they may participate in this course in Holland. This year's grant recipients were: Asaf Ahiron Tel Aviv University Shalom Guy Ben-Gurion University, Be'er Sheva Awards This year the ICA presented annual awards to physicians and nurses who care for cancer patients and demonstrate professionalism in their work while excelling in humanitarian relations with their patients. The relevant professional unions select the award recipients and the award is presented to them at the union's annual conference. The 2008 ICA award winners were: The Israel Pediatric Hemato-Oncology Association: Outstanding Specialist Award was presented to: Dr. Abed Abukoidar, of Soroka Medical Center The Israeli Oncology Nursing Society: Prize for the development of Cancer Patient Services was awarded to: Ms. Bruriya Yachini, Breast Cancer Treatment Coordinator, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel aviv Ms. Shula Lev, Coordinating Orthopedic Oncology Nurse, Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv The Israeli Society for Clinical Oncology and Radiation Therapy Award was presented to: Dr. Robinov Karen of the Oncology Institute, Soroka Medical Center. 87

86 International Conferences 88 Impressions and summary of the Annual UICC Conference The UICC Conference was held at the end of August 2008 in Switzerland. A World Cancer Treaty was signed during the conference attended by dozens of researchers, scientists and health system personnel from across the globe. This treaty set targets to further develop strategies against cancer diseases throughout the globe-cancer Chronicles Film Festival, an international documentary film competition was held for the first time. The ICA "hookah" public service announcement won (PSA) first place in the public service announcement category (for further details please see "Information and Education" Chapter). Closing of the conference: World Cancer Declaration sets ambitious targets for 2020 The World Cancer Summit - a meeting of more than 60 high level policymakers, leaders and health experts adopted a global plan aimed at tackling the growing cancer crisis in developing countries. The plan contained in the World Cancer Declaration, recommends a set of 11 cancer-busting targets for 2020 and outlines priority steps that need to be taken in order to meet them. It was presented at the close of the UICC World Cancer Congress and offered as a global template for governments and other groups to tailor as they devise their own plans to guide local efforts. "The rise of cancer in less affluent countries is an impending disaster", World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Dr. Margaret Chan, told delegates at the opening of the congress. "The time is right to make cancer control a development priority". Dr. Chan said that she believes that several recent trends in public health make the international community especially receptive to the Declaration s arguments, and responsive to its call to action. Former UN Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson, who chaired the World Summit, said cancer control is a human rights issue, tied to the right to health through access to an effective health system. "Ultimately, it is a question of human rights and above all, it is a question of human dignity. Adoption of the World Cancer Declaration is another step in a real commitment vision of how to tackle this huge world health issue," said Robinson, who is now President of "Realizing Rights", an international human rights organization. Much can be done to tackle cancer in the developing world, the experts said. About one-third of cancer cases can be prevented and another third can be cured if detected early and treated properly. Targets recommended in the declaration include significant drops in global tobacco consumption, obesity and alcohol intake; universal vaccination programs for hepatitis B and human papilloma virus to prevent liver and cervical cancer; dramatic reduction in the emigration of health workers with specialist cancer training; universal availability of effective pain medication and the dispelling of myths and misconceptions about the disease. The idea of a global fund for cancer, similar to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, was tabled as a possible goal, given that cancer kills more people than those three diseases combined.

87 Other highlights of the World Cancer Congress closing ceremony Other highlights of the World Cancer Congress closing ceremony include an award to Raul Pitarque and Javier Bou, who won the prize for a symbol to designate smoke-free environments for children. Pitarque and Bou are tobacco activists in Argentina, and their simple but evocative design was judged to be widely usable, communicating effectively across cultures. Also recognized at the ceremony were the winners from the "Reel Lives" film festival the first ever devoted to the theme of cancer. Jan Gassman from Switzerland was honored for his film "Chrigu", a moving and surprising portrait of a young man who once had great plans for the future until, at the age of 21, an advanced-stage tumor was found in his neck. Additional winners were "The Truth about Cancer" (USA) for best reportage, The Art of Living (India) for best personal story, The Children of Avenir (Morocco) for best education or organizational film, and "Hookah" (Israel) for the best public service announcement. The World Health Organization (WHO) forecasts that by 2030, the annual global death toll will rise to about 11.5 million. The UICC holds a World Cancer Congress every two years. The next World Cancer Congress will meet in Beijing, August We extend our congratulations to ICA Director General, Miri Ziv, who was chosen to serve an additional term as UICC Executive Board member at the Annual UICC Conference Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, was elected to serve as UICC Executive Board member at the Annual UICC Conference. This is Miri The AACR (American Association for Cancer Research) Centennial Conference in conjuction with Israel Cancer Association entitled: "Translational Cancer Medicine 2008: Bridging the Lab and the Clinic in Cancer Medicine" The AACR Centennial Conference was held in early November 2008 at the Congress Center in Jerusalem in conjunction with ICA. The AACR is an important organization of international repute headed by Dr. Margaret Foti. The 4-day conference featured top cancer research experts hailing from Israel, The United States, England, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland and Belgium, who delivered lectured on various subjects, such as: clinical trials, strategies in drug development, biological components of cancer treatment, advanced treatments for different cancers, tumor response to chemotherapy, cancer-related immunology, angiogenesis and the micro setting of tumors, intercell responses, as well as an open panel on "Challenges in cancer research in Israel", principles of treatment for breast cancer, identifying a mechanism that may assist in evaluating the risk and early detection of lung cancer, real time imaging of molecular orientations, clinical treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer, new imaging biomarkers in oncology, cancer and epigenetics. Ziv's second term as a member of the Executive Board consisting 14 members from around the globe. The UICC consists of 330 member organizations from 100 countries around the globe that collaborate to advance the global fight against cancer. Miri Ziv's extensive activity in the health system for over 25 years played a role in the UICC's decision to appoint her as a member of its Executive Board, which sets global policy for the fight against cancer diseases. Miri's broadbased activity in various managerial positions within the ICA, the organization which leads Israel's fight against cancer diseases, has made a significant contribution to the development of national screening programs, the promotion of prevention methods, the expansion of services for cancer patients and the general population, and to unique and diverse activity on behalf of the community and Israeli society. 89

88 Research 90 Each year, the ICA awards dozens of fellowship grants to physicians in medical centers and to scientists in research institutes and universities throughout the country. This involves basic, clinical, and epidemiological research, as well as studies investigating the psycho-social aspects of the disease and the coping strategies of cancer patients and their families. Mrs. Vardit Danziger, ICA Assistant to the Director General, oversees the Research Committee. We extend our congratulations to Prof. Yosef Yarden, a cancer research scientist of international repute, from the Dept. of Biological Control at the Weizmann Institute of Science, and Chairman of the ICA Research Committee, on his appointment as a member of the Israel National Academy of Science. The ICA highly respects and appreciates his endeavors and is very proud of this prestigious and significant recognition of which Prof. Yarden is certainly worthy. A special day dedicated to research was held for the first time this year at Beit Mati, ICA head office. The ICA marked Cancer Research Day for the first time this year ICA research day was held for the first time in mid-june. This special day was initiated by Research Committee Chairman, Prof. Yosef Yarden. About 120 cancer research scientists from all over Israel convened to participate in this special day, which featured Israeli scientists presenting a wide range of research studies conducted with funding from the ICA, and heightening awareness as to the importance of cancer research. The research day held at Beit Mati, ICA head office, was opened by Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General and Prof. Yosef Yarden, who delivered greetings. This was followed by an overview of ICA's extensive activity, delivered by Miri Ziv, Prof. Gadi Rennert, of Carmel Medical Center, delivered the first lecture on "The impact of molecular tests on the definition of the risk, diagnostic methods, treatment modalities and cancer survival individualization of the medical endeavor". The seminar was divided into two sessions, with each session featuring lectures on diverse topics. The session, led by Prof. Yosef Yarden, featured the following three lectures: Dr. Shai Izraeli, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, lectured on: Prediction of Brain Metastasis by the Expression of Three Genes in Primary Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Prof. Nitza Lahat, Carmel Medical Center and the Technion, lectured on: Hypoxia inhibits inos activity in macrophages and tumor cells by disrupting its interactions with α -actinin 4 Dr. Abir Ronit, Rabin Medical Center Beilinson Hospital, lectured on: Ovarian cryopreservation for fertility preservation after initiation Of anti-cancer therapy-should it be considered? Prof. Moshe Pappa and Dr. Ronit Yarden, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, lectured on:

89 BRCA1 mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of G2/M cell cycle proteins is required for preventing unscheduled mitotic entry following DNA damage and for maintenance of genomic stability. Dr. Daniela Katz, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, lectured on: Discordant expression of estrogen receptor between primary breast tumors and corresponding involved axillary lymph nodes may impact prognosis. Prof. Maya Horowitz, Tel Aviv University, moderated the second session which featured the following lectures: Prof. Rachel Bar-Shavit, Hadassah Medical Center, Ein Karem, lectured on: Molecular signatures in the promoter of human Protease Activated Receptor; hpar1: Implication to tumor progression Dr. Micha Bar-Hanna, Haifa University, lectured on: Incidence and Survival patterns of Malignant Diseases among Holocaust Survivors in Israel Prof. Uri Nir, Bar-Ilan University, lectured on: TMF/ARA160 a novel protein that mediates the proteosomal degradation of NFKB P65 Prof. Benhar Itai, Tel Aviv University, lectured on: Targeted Drug-carrying Filamentous Phage - Nanomedicines Dr. Yaron Shav-Tal, Bar-Ilan University, lectured on: Analysis of cyclin D1 Proto-Oncogene Promoter Control Using Single-Cell in Vivo Imaging Dr. Shahar Lev-Ari, Tel Aviv Medical Center, lectured on: Curcumin: a potential radio-sensitizer in head and neck cancer Prof. Moshe Oren, Weizmann Institute, delivered the last lecture entitled: "P53: Natural Defense against Cancer" The outstanding poster was selected from among the posters presented at the seminar and a summary was delivered and lessons were learned for the next Research Day. Outstanding Female Researcher Grant In 2008, an augmented fellowship grant was presented to Dr. Sharon Eden of the Hebrew University, for her research on the "Delay of RAC dependent actin polymerization, a key process in the wandering of cells and the development of metastases"; this grant was provided by the Outstanding Female Researcher Fund established by the children of The late Prof. Dafna Izraeli and The Late Prof. Dov Izraeli, in memory of their parents. 91

90 The following is a list of the fellowship grants that received funding in 2008: 92 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Tel-Aviv University Dr Pinkas-Kramarski R. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr Simon I. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Prof. Razin E. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Ben-Baruch A. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Flescher E. Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan Prof Sredni B. Dr. Kalechman Y. Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan Dr. Barda-saad M. Haifa University Dr. Cohen M. Mechanism of Beclin 1 mediated autophagy Differential gene regulation by the tumor suppressor P53 - the role of modifications and cofactors Developing a novel inhibitor peptide as a potential drug for melanoma and prostate cancer Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in breast cancer: Possible role in Epithelial-to- Mesenchymal Transition The cooperative therapeutic potential of methy1 jasmonate and endoplasmic reticulum stress inducers - Tunicamycin and Thapsigargin, evaluated in human colon cancer cells Interference with the interaction of VLA-4 on AML cells and Fibronectin, by the Tellurium compound AS101 results in their sensitiztion to chemotherapy Potential usage of specific hemopoietic cytoskeletal Alexander proteins as a target of T-cell lymphoma Perceptions, Emotional Reactions and Ways of coping of Arab women with breast cancer The Ber-Lehmsdorf memorial Fund in Memory of the Late John Furman The Ber-Lehmsdorf Memorial Fund in Memory of the Late Prof. Nathan Trainin Through the Miriam and Benjamin Stanton Fund Donated by Linda R. Kaminow in memory of Claire and Emanuel G. Rosenblatt The estate of the late Alexander Smidoda The estate of the late Alexander Smidoda The estate of the late Alexander Smidoda The estate of the late Alexander Smidoda

91 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr. Livne O. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Dr. Abdu U. Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petach Tikva Prof Fisch B. Dr. Abir R. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Avni D. Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petach Tikva Dr. Hochhauser E. Soroka Medical Center, Beer-Sheva Prof Gopas J. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Prof Shoshan-Barmatz V. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Dr. Halaila I. Structural studies of intrinsically active ERK2 variants: basis for anti cancer drug design Combined bichemical, molecular & genetic approach to elucidate the function of checkpoint kinase 2 in including tissue-specific appotosis during Drosophila meiosis Fertility Restoration to Cancer Patients by Use of Multiple Growth Factors Profiling the expression patterns of mirrnas during the malignant evolution of malignant melanoma - umplication for diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutics Regeneration following subtotal hepatectomy: the effect of erythropietin post irinotecan / oxaliplatin asministration Mechnisms of NF-Kb inhibition and apoptosis by hydroxythionuphlutine B (NUP) in Hodgkins lymphoma cell lines The mitochondrial protein VDAC1 as a novel target for including cancer cells death O-GlcNAc modification in cancer metastasis Miriam and Shlomo Hasid memorial fund Donated by Harry & Ida Shooster, Florida Donated by ICA USA in honor of Ida & Harry Shooster Miriam and Shlomo Hasid memorial fund Miriam and Shlomo Hasid memorial fund The Chaya and Naftali Bloch Memorial Fund The Chaya and Naftali Bloch Memorial Fund 93

92 94 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Dr. Isakov N. Dr. Ignacio S. Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petach Tikva Dr. Margel D. Rambam Medical Center, Haifa Dr. Larisch S. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Prof Rubinshtein A. Rabin Medical Center, Beilinson Campus, Petach Tikva Dr. Gafter-Gvili A. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Bakhanshvili M. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Abadi-Korek I. Technion, Haifa Prof Kleinberger T. Technion, Haifa Dr. Yavlonsky D. Characterization of a newly discovered leukemia tumor cell marker Auto-antibody profiles for the diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder Investigating the role of the pro-apoptotic protein-arts in lymphoma, as basis developing an anti-cancer drug Targeted prevention of tumor recurrence and distat metastasis of breast cancer by a novel biodegradablebiocompatible platforms for brachytherapy The performance of 18F - fluorodexyglucose position emission tomography diagnosis of infections hematological cancer paients with persistent neutropenia and fever The role of tumor suppressor protein p53 in ARE-mRNA degeradiation Economic Efficiency for maximaizing the health benfit among oncology patients in israel Study of e4orf4 nduced cancer specific apoptosis in vivo in a drosphilia model system Molecular mechanisms of metastasis: odentification of genes required for chemokineinducted cell migration Donated by Harry & Ida Shooster, Florida The Raya (Rela) Golambo Memorial Fund The Raya (Rela) Golambo Memorial Fund donated by ICA USA in honor of Linda Kaminow Donated by Linda R. Kaminow Shimon & Irena Gross Research Fund

93 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Technion, Haifa Prof Ron D. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein- Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Uziely B. Dr. Katz D. Hadassah Medical Center Dr Nissan A. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein- Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Kaduri L. Prof Peretz T. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr Sharon E. Tel-Aviv University Dr Bar-Noy Z. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Dar R. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Rephaeli A. Dr. Kessler-Icekson G. Tel-Aviv University Dr Satchi-Fainaro R. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Prof Bruck R. The relationship between hsef loss of expression and the malignant process New echcardiographic parameter for early detection of trastuzumab related cardiotoxocity Detection of minimal disease in breast cancer patients using specific micro RNA Do women wit non-metastatic breast cancer have a higher risk of colorectal adnomas? - prospective cohort study Inhibition of Rac-induced actinpolymerization, a key process in cell migration and metastasis Communication of genetic information to cancer patients relatives: practice, law and ethivs in israel Cellular technologies as a tool for behavioral intervention in smoking cessation Tel-Aviv University Enhancement of anticancer efficacy and reduction in therapy associated cardiotoxicity by ptodrug AN-7, application to breast cancer Targeting pancreatic cancer with polymer conjugates of angiogenesis inhibitors Cofocal endomicrosoy as a tool for earlt cancer detection in high risk population Shimon & Irena Gross Research Fund Through the Miriam and Benjamin Stanton Fund Donated by Nancy and Peter Brown The Outstanding Research Fund in memory of the late Prof. Dafna and the late Prof. Dov Izraeli Donated by David Markin in honor of his wife Tracy 95

94 96 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Prof Friedman E. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr Cohen Y. Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zrifin Prof Kuten A. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Gilad G. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein-Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Mecklankin A. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein-Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Allsweiss T. Prof Ben-Eliyahu S. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein-Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Weintraub M. Technion, Haifa Dr. Haick H. Promotor methylation as putative modifier of penetrance in BRCA 1 / 2 mutation carriers The role of ETS transcription factors in human prostate cancer tumorigenesis Phase II multicenter clinical trial of prophylactic irradiation to the contralateral breast for BRCA mutation carriers undergoing treatment for breast cancer Risk for cancer in subgroups of schizophrenia and their first degree relatives Targeting invasiveness inducing high molecular weight melanoma associated antigen with highly functional cytotoxic T cell Perioperative administration of beta blockers and COX2 inhibitors in women undergoing breast cancer surgery: an intervention to decrease immune suppression, metasttic potential and cancer recurrence Quality of life in children cured of retinoblastoma Early diagnosis of lung cancer via breast samples Donated in honor of Helen and Arnold Hoffman's 60th wedding Anniversary (Florida).

95 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Tel-Aviv University Dr. Azizi E. Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan Dr. Shav-Tal Y. Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan Dr. Ginsberg D. Tel-Aviv University Prof Vardimon L. MC1R genotyping and functional analyses in Malignant Melanoma Jewish Patients Analysis of cyclin D1 Proto- Oncogene Promoter Control using single-cell in vivo imaging The role of the ranscription factor E2F in enhanced sensitivity of human transormed cells to chemotherapy A novel mechanism of c-jun regulation in tumor cells Tel-Aviv University Prof Henis Y. Tel-Aviv University Prof Segal D. Prof Gazit E. Bar Ilan University, Ramat-Gan Dr. Sarid R. Weizmann Institute of Sceince, Rehovot Prof Breskin A. Prof Raamon Y. Dr. Dotan Z. Dr. Fridman E. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Prof Kerem B. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr. Friedler A. Interdependence of TGFbeta receptor internalization, signaling and oncogenic potential Restoring the in vivo function of mutant VHL tumorsupressor by protein folding manipulation Role of cellular ubiquitin E3 ligases in the Infectious Cycle of KSHV Assessing CAP diagnostic value of prostatic zinc: entire-gland (prostatectomy) mapping Cancer and chromosomal instability at fragile sites Regulation of p53-mediated apoptosis: providing a basis for the design of anti-cancer lead compounds Donated by Jane & dick Karp Donated by Linda R. Kaminow in honor of Ed Fox The ICA friends in Switzerland 97

96 98 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Hadassah Medical Center Ein- Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Paltiel O. Prof Manor O. Dr. Barchana M. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Prof Raveh D. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Dr Bernheim-Grosvasser A. The Hebrew University of Jerusalem Dr. Levi-Schaff F. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Lederkremer G. Tel-Aviv University Dr. Ehrlich M. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Dr. Mabjeesh N. Hadassah Medical Center, Ein-Karem, Jerusalem Dr. Bar-Shavit R. Schneider Children's Medical Center, Petach Tikva Dr. Ash S. The association between marital status, social networks and volunteer activity on cancer incidence and mortality in the older persons: a population-based study Functional evaluation of polymorphsms in the BRCA2 interacting protein DSS1 in Yeast Biomimetic system for the study of cell motility Linking kit with CD300a and CDw328: a novel strategy to inhibit myeloid leukemias Studies on the combined effect of proteasomal and unfolded protein response inhibition on hypoxic cells Studies on the role of clathrin and the vitronectin receptor in cell attachment, cell spreading and anoikis The functional effects of HIF- 1 alpha P582S mutation in prostate cancer Molecular signatures in the promoter of hpar1 gene and its silencing by SiRNA approach mmunotherapy for neuroblastoma: induction of graft versus tumor reaction by hematopoietic chimerism and tumor-sensitized dendritic cells

97 Inst. + Researcher Research subject Funded By Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Yarden R. Prof Papa M. Ben Gurion University. Beer-Sheva Dr. Fraifeld V. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Dr. Tavor S. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Dr. Wolf I. Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Prof Rechavi G. Rambam Medical Center, Haifa Dr. Hershko D. Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Dr. Star A. Tel-Aviv University Prof Lavi S. The role of BRCA1 E3 ligase activity in the cellular response to radiation and chemotherapy Involvement of signakung Shc proteins in brain tumorigenesis: association with potential aggressiveness of low grade astrocytomas and neuroblastomas The role of elastase and SDF-1/ CXCR4 axis in the development of human AML Activation of the hedgehog pathway: a novel mechanism in breast cancer pathogenesis Characterization of the edutung patterns and the editing machinery in human tumors Regulation of the cell cycle protein p27 in advanced breast cancer Treatment of orthotopically growing human lung cancer in athymic mice by combination therapy with anti-erbb-4 monoclonal antibody and Paclitaxel Regulation of protein phosphatase 2 Calpha by phosphorylation Ida and Harry Shooster in memory of Carl and Anna Grossman and Frank and Dora Shooster Donated by Adele Hoffman in honor of Jan Hoffman and Gene Hoffman Donated by Linda R. Kaminow in memory of Claire and Emanuel G. Rosenblatt 99

98 Memorial Funds Donated to ICA 100 The Boaz Adar Memorial Fund established by Yael and Shimon Adar, in memory of their son Boaz, for the provision of research grants. The Israel Jacob and lila Alter Memorial Fund for the provision of an annual research grant for outstanding research project in environmental health and/or epidemiology. The Lea Arbel Memorial Fund for provision of training programs for para-medical professionals who treat cancer patients. The Ber-Lehmsdorf Memorial Fund managed by executors of the estate of the late Dr. Ber-Lehmsdorf of Switzerland, for the provision of research grants. The Chaya and Naftali Bloch Memorial Fund bequeathed by the late Chaya Bloch for the provision of research grants. The Annetta Cherna Fund, bequeathed by the deceased to finance activity on behalf of child cancer patients. The Sir Charles Clore Foundation in support of maintaining the Sir Charles Clore Hostel in Givatayim. The Ethel Cohen Memorial Fund for the provision of cancer research grants. The Rivka Dror, Esther and Leon Arditi, Miriam and Shlomo Hasid Fund for cancer research and for the acquisition of medical equipment. The Dina and Zalman Goldberg Memorial Fund for the promotion of research conducted by students and young doctors working in the Oncology Department at the Rambam Health Care Campus in Haifa. The Raya (Rela) Golombo Memorial Fund bequeathed by the late Raya (Rela) Golombo in memory of Reuven and Meir Golombo and their mother Sonya Golombo; Miriam Gerster and her parents Raphael Gerster and Rela (Raya) Gerster-Golombo nee Kaplanowitz; Sonya Lev, husband Yossef and their daughters Kasnya and Avigail, who perished in the Holocaust; Yossef Golombo and Dina Kaplanowitz. The Ronit Greenfas Memorial Fund for special projects. The late Simon and Irma Gross Fund for cancer research. The Rafael Hadar Memorial Fund, for the establishment of the Oncology Day Center at Sha're Zedek Medical Center. The I Care Fund in memory of the late Ofira Navon, for the support of psychooncology conferences, workshops and seminars. Joint Headquarters of Quality Assurance Fund Fund bequeathed by the late Prof. Daphne Izraeli and the late Prof. Dov Izraeli to finance the Outstanding Female Researcher fellowship grant. The Sara Kantarovitch (Arna) Fund, bequeathed by the deceased, to finance fellowship grants. The Yehudit Kleinberger Memorial Fund of Munich for the provision of research grants. The Charlotta Kolber Memorial Fund bequeathed by the late Charlotta Kolber for the provision of research grants. The Mina Margot Laveh Memorial Fund for the support of cancer research. The Sarah Markovich Memorial Fund bequeathed by the late Sara Markovich in memory of her children Micki and Shimon Salpeter who perished in Holocaust, for the

99 provision of treatment and rehabilitation for cancer patients in need in the Rehovot area and to finance social workers positions. The Mathilde Recanati Memorial Fund for the support of special programs in the battle against cancer. The Tamar Rodich Memorial Fund established by her son Ilan Rodich to support Hospice and Home Hospice (special programs). The Avraham Rubinstein Memorial Fund bequeathed by the deceased for home tutoring of child cancer patients. The Miriam Eva Sharoni (Stern) nee Lang Memorial Fund established by her husband, Avraham Sharoni, to support ICA activities. The Alexander Smidoda Memorial Fund bequeathed by the deceased for the provision of research grants. The Leah and Yosef Solomon Fund bequeathed by the late Yosef Solomon to finance fellowship grants. The Miriam and Benjamin Stanton Fund established by Miriam and Benjamin Stanton of England, for the support of cancer research. The Hanna Uldak Memorial Fund, for the purchase of computers for children who have cancer, as part of the home tutoring support network. The Moshe Wolf Memorial Fund for the provision of cancer research grants. The Ronni Yudison Memorial Fund, established by the deceased s husband, Meir Yudison, for the provision of research grants. The Ronit Zilberfarb (Mer) Memorial Fund for financing research fellowship in stomach cancer. 101

100 Data Collection and Follow-up 102 The National Mammography Project The ICA assisted in establishing an infrastructure for mammography quality control as well as with the purchase of new equipment for screening centers located throughout the country. Approximately 56 operating centers have the Ministry of Health s approval of equipment quality and radiation levels, with the prerequisite that each center runs regular tests to examine image quality and film development procedures. Fifty mammography centers currently operate under clinical quality assurance, within the framework of the joint ICA-Ministry of Health National Mammography Project. In this ICA-financed mammography centers which have been computerized, and all test results undergo comparative data analysis performed by radiologists, surgeons and oncologists. To date, this program headed by Prof. Gad Rennert has collected data on over three million tests. Following an ICA-initiated discussion at a meeting of the Israel National Oncology Council, a special task committee was formed, which recommended rules of procedure reflecting further aspects to be implemented by the Ministry of Health. (Further information on the National Mammography Program and educational activities relating to early detection of breast cancer may be found in the "Early Detection" and "Information and Education" chapters). Upgrading National Protocol of Childhood Acute Lymphatic Leukemia The ICA continues to provide financial aid to collect and process data on children afflicted with acute lymphatic leukemia and who are undergoing treatment according to the National Protocol, which is a unique extension of the German Protocol BFM. All statistics are processed by the Department of Statistics at Hebrew University. Since the protocol s inception some 17 years ago, there are no longer any differences recorded in the survival rates of children afflicted with leukemia treated at the various medical centers. Nor are there any differences recorded between the survival rates of Jewish and Arab children afflicted with the disease. Over the past decade methods for submicroscopic detection of leukemia cells have been developed, whereby intensive treatment in patients at low risk for recurrence may be reduced, thus saving long-term treatment damage and enabling the detection of high risk patients who require life-saving intensive treatment. The ICA has assumed the task of assisting in the upgrade of this method until its effectiveness is proven. This year the ICA has approved additional financial assistance in order to enable the completion of the requirements for joining the International Protocol for the Treatment of Childhood Acute Lymphatic Leukemia, and the procedures were included in the Drug Basket. (For further information on this subject please see Chapter on Equipment, Construction and Development). Collaboration between the Israel Society for Pediatric Oncology and the American Children's Oncology Group and Other International Groups The Israel Society for Pediatric Oncology was accepted by the American Children Cancer Group to join in the formulation of various treatment projects.

101 The ICA funds part-time Data Manager posts in the Pediatric-Oncology Departments of Schneider Children s Medical Center in Petah Tikva, Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Rambam Health Care Campus in Haufa and Hadassah Medical Center in Jerusalem. These posts enable the expansion of the national protocols framework under the proper quality assurance and enable the various departments to become a part of the American Children s Oncology Group. The treatment protocols which currently exist in Israel are: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, Chairpersons Prof. Batia Stark and Dr. Shay Izraeli B-cell Lymphoma, Chairperson Prof. Miriam Ben Harush Neuroblastoma, Chairman Dr. Yitzhak Yaniv and Dr. Hana Golan Retinoblastoma, Chairperson Dr. Nili Remo Rhabdomyosarcoma, Chairman Dr. Yaakov Goshen Wilms' Tumor, Chairman Dr. Yoram Neuman Central Data Collection of Children with Cancer in Israel The ICA continues to finance the Data Manager posts for central pediatric treatment data collection in order to compile national data, expand the national protocols framework and strengthen international ties with the United States and Europe. Joint Genetic Research Within the Israeli Ovarian and Breast Cancer Consortium 10 institutes are engaged in cancer genetics research which conduct a joint ICA-funded study on the Genetics of Ovarian and Breast Cancer in Israel. Prof. Efrat Levi- Lahad of Shaare Zedek Medical Center coordinates the research in collaboration with the Sheba, Rambam, Rabin, Tel Aviv- Sourasky, Wolfson, Kaplan, Soroka, Ziv, Shaare Zedek and Carmel Medical Centers. The Consortium is also conducting research studies under the direction of Prof. Efrat Levi-Lahad, representing the Israel Breast Cancer Consortium, in conjunction with Prof. Mary Claire King of Washington University, Seattle. Over 660 BRCA1 and BRAC2 gene mutation carriers in Israel and the United States were examined in one of the researches, which was published in the international scientific literature, demonstrated that familial factors may have a significant impact on the risk of contracting a specific type of malignancy in BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation carriers. Continued Consortium activity was approved. Additionally, the ICA finances software and a research nurse who coordinates the activity. Israeli Breast Implant Registry for Reconstruction Purposes The ICA has assisted in establishing an Israeli Breast Implant Registry of women who have undergone mastectomy and reconstruction with implants and is endeavoring to integrate Israel's registry within the International Registry network. Dr. Morris Topaz, Director of the Plastic Surgery Ward at Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, and Chairman of the International Breast Implant Registry, coordinates the Israeli registry. C o m p u t e r i z e d C a n c e r P a t i e n t Databases In the past, the ICA installed computer systems in oncology institutes. With the aim of enhancing database quality, a Data 103

102 104 Collection Sub-Committee has formulated a standard data structure which may be integrated in any information system that is available. This Sub-Committee along with the Directors of Oncology Institutes decided to allow for gradual integration of the new data form. Every year, patient data obtained from oncology institutes are transferred to the Cancer Data Collection Unit at the Ministry of Health in a format formulated and defined by a Sub-Committee consisting of members of the Data Collection and Follow up Committee. In order to implement this project, the ICA finances registers of new patients and follow up in many oncology centers throughout the country. Multi-center clinical research on women with breast cancer carrying BRCA gene mutations, as part of Anglo-Israeli Cooperation Several Israeli centers gave their consent to participate in a multi-center international research as part of an Anglo-Israeli collaborative effort that began two years ago at a workshop on genetics, initiated by Prof. Mike Baum of London. Since the BRCA 1/2 mutation is more prevalent among women of Eastern/Western European descent, there are high hopes of Israel's joining this research and the capacity of its scientists to promote and complete this research and publish its results. The research objective is to conduct an experiment at the second stage to compare the administration of docetaxale chemotherapy to that of carboplatine chemotherapy in women who have genetic breast cancer and have developed metastases. The research will recruit 148 patients: 74 BRCA 1 carriers and 74 BRCA 2 carriers who will be randomly treated with docetaxale or carboplatine in a ratio of 2:1 in favor of carboplatine. The research is scheduled to take place at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Hadassah Medical Center, Rambam Health Care Campus, Soroka Medical Center, Nahariya Hospital and Assaf Harofe Medical Center In order to centralize the research, a research coordinator has been recruited to work out of ICA headquarters. This research coordinator mediates between the various centers and the center in England. An experiment has recently begun at Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, and at other centers intense efforts are being made to receive the necessary approval according to the standard Ministry of Health procedure dating (2006), and to begin recruiting patients for the research study.

103 Equipment, Construction and Development Laughter Room for the Welfare of Children who have Cancer in the Hemato-oncology Complex at Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer Thanks to ICA initiative and assistance, the establishment of the new and unique Laughter Room was completed during the year of 2008 for the welfare of children who have cancer. The Laughter Room is a special interactive space where children at the Medical Center can enjoy a respite from the prolonged battle with their disease, and enter a world that is sheer adventure, a celebration of the senses, and laughter. The Laughter Room was set up thanks to a donation from the estates of Bronstein Dora of blessed memory and Chernia Antel of blessed memory. Late Sarah Markovich Breast Care Center at the Kaplan Medical Center In 2007 construction began on the Sarah Markovich Breast Care Center in memory of the late Sarah Markovich's children who perished in the Holocaust, Micki and Shimon Salpeter, of blessed memory. Construction has continued vigorously in The Center is designed to provide comprehensive treatment to women diagnosed with breast cancer in order to help them cope with the complicated ramifications of this disease, and to provide them with personal support from the moment they are diagnosed until all treatments are completed and throughout the rehabilitation process. Reuben Foundation Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Linn Clinic With the help of a generous contribution provided by David and Simon Reuben, and family, and a fundraising event held by the Friends of the ICA London, chaired by Ms. Vered Aaron, work began in 2007 on the construction of the Reuben Foundation Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Linn Clinic in Haifa and it was inaugurated at the end of October. The Linn Medical Center is a professional community medical center which provides ambulatory service to the insured of Clalit Healthcare Services in the Haifa district and the northern region. The new center will constitute a professional and high quality service that will provide women of the Haifa area and northern region with medical service, accompaniment and personal support from the moment they are diagnosed with breast cancer, and until the completion of the coping process and rehabilitation. Expansion of the Suzy Eban Oncology Unit at Ziv Medical Center in Safed through the contribution by The Clore Foundation The expansion of the oncology unit honoring Suzy Eban, ICA Founding President, began towards the end of 2008 for the welfare of patients admitted in this unit. Update of the Childhood Leukemia Monitoring Protocol Today's aim throughout the globe and at ICA is to cure all children, while maintaining optimal quality of life, free of restrictions, for a recovering child. The objective is to succeed in 105

104 106 "tailoring" the appropriate treatment for each child according to the specific type of leukemia and its degree of risk, in order to abstain from using chemotherapy and radiotherapy for low risk cancers, seeing as these treatments involve physical and emotional damage later on. Conversely, treatment is increased as are chances of a cure among high risk patients. With generous assistance from the ICA, the new MRD lab methods have been implemented, and an Israeli group has been integrated in a large international group for the monitoring and treatment of childhood leukemia. This procedure has also entered the health basket. Thanks to ICA support, child cancer patients in Israel will continue to receive optimal treatment provided by modern medicine. For further details about the protocol please see the "Data Collection and Follow up" Chapter. Assistance in Purchasing Medical Equipment for Hospitals Purchase of a Laser Device for photodynamic treatments for solid tumors for the Oncology Lab at Assaf Harofe Medical Center through the Stuczinski Foundation Photodynamic treatment is an innovative treatment method using laser rays combined with a special drug that is sensitive to light; this treatment is implemented to destroy abnormal cells in the body. Purchase of an ovary freezing system for unmarried women, prior to chemotherapy treatment, for Soroka Medical Center, Beer Sheva, thanks to donation Young women who have contracted cancer do their utmost to maintain their fertility capacity following cancer treatments. The possibility of freezing eggs is of optimal importance to female cancer patients. The device was designed to assist them in fulfilling their aspirations. The device was purchased with the assistance of the Friends of the ICA in London, chaired by Ms. Vered Aaron. Purchase of a device for detecting cancer in bone marrow for Bnei Zion Medical Center The new device is designed to assist Bnei Zion Medical Center in detecting bone marrow cancer for the entire population of the northern region. The device enables the receipt of more reliable and more precise results, at a much quicker rate. Additionally, the device enables the testing of a larger number of cases each year. Earmarked Donations for Constructing Wards and Purchasing Medical Equipment The ICA assists in constructing wards and clinics, and in purchasing state-of-the-art medical equipment for treating cancer patients. The ICA raises earmarked funds to finance the costs involved in this activity. No overhead is taken from the earmarked donations. The Estate of Israel Alter of blessed memory The estate of Israel Jacob and Lila Alter of blessed memory was accessed in In the first Israel Alter Estate project, starting 2009, an annual fellowship grant will be awarded to an outstanding scientist in the field of environment and /or epidemiology. The new branch in Jerusalem has been purchased with the financial assistance of this estate. The current Kokia Family branch in Jerusalem is to be moved to this new building. The branch offices will be dedicated in honor of the Kokia Family and the activity area for patients will be dedicated to the memory of the late Alter of blessed memory.

105 Volunteers and Special Events Thousands of ICA volunteers dispersed throughout over 70 branches all across Israel actively participate in diverse events throughout the year: initiating conferences, performances and special events, the proceeds of which go to the ICA. Some of these events have become a long time tradition. Main Fundraising Events held this Year Tel Aviv The traditional Tel Aviv event was held this year at the home of Yossi Meiman, and was made possible thank to his great generosity and contribution. Many guests and dignitaries, such as heads of the Israeli economy, gathered in the garden of Mr. Meiman's house decorated by faithful Tel Aviv Branch Manager, Malka Zur. The festive evening was dedicated to the promotion of cancer research and enhancing the means of eradicating the disease. The guests enjoyed an artistic performance delivered by Lehakat Hagevatron, Israel Prize laureates, who sang the ensemble`s prime songs from over the years. Another prize laureate, Prof. Aaron Ciechanover, who won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, took part in the fundraising event. Prof. Ciechanover, received a research grant from the ICA at the outset of his career as a young researcher, and served as a member of the ICA Research Committee for nearly a decade, until he received the Nobel Prize. Prof. Ciechanover spoke about the importance of contributing to the ICA for the benefit of cancer research in particular and for its noteworthy activities in general, and called upon donors to open their hearts to achieve this significant goal. The event was opened with greetings delivered by ICA Vice Chairman, Leon Recanati and Moshe Gaon who spoke about his father Benny Gaon of blessed memory, who served as ICA President. The moderating of this special evening was dedicatedly volunteered by Amnon Pe'er. Yossi Meiman, who served in the past as a successful Annual "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign Chairman, began this hosting and fundraising tradition for the benefit of the ICA. Among the fundraising event participants were Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, Ami Ganiger, Amos Shapira, Moshe Gaon, Prof. Aharon Ciechanover, Aliza and Prof. Ariel Yaffo; David Tamir, Danny Gilerman, Gad Ze'evi, Dan Oren, Dafna Bester, Hila and Rani Rahav and many other public figures and financiers. 107

106 Friends of the ICA Abroad 108 Friends of the ICA in countries throughout the world continue to lend their support with great dedication and devotion to advance the continuous and untiring battle against cancer. Our circle of friends overseas has assisted us in continuing to expand our support activities for cancer patients, and in making an effort to increase early detection awareness among the general public. Many projects were fulfilled in the fight against cancer in spite of these difficult times in Israel, economically and security-wise. We are in need of this significant and vital support so that we may continue assisting in promoting research, treatment modalities, rehabilitation and improving patients' quality of life. Cancer knows no territorial boundaries and does not discriminate against patients based on nationality, ethnic background, race or sex. The promotion of the fight against cancer, support for funding of research studies and technological development and the outstanding achievements that are accomplished through donations raised abroad are to be commended and held in high esteem. Frankfurt The gala of the Frankfurt Branch, headed by Ms. Petra Kaffeesieder, was a big success, everybody was in a very good mood and a good time was had by all. A bingo game was held with very nice prizes such as jewelry, tickets for various beauty care treatments, tickets for sporting events, flight tickets to New York, autographed footballs from the local football team, etc. The "Wave" Fitness Center from Frankfurt with its manager Mr. Mosby had a stand during the reception with health drinks, body index measurements and free tickets for training with personal trainers. It was also a huge success. Guests of honor were: Dr. Petra Roth, Lord Mayor of the city of Frankfurt Mr. Uwe Becker and his wife, Treasurer of the city of Frankfurt Dr. Ernst Gerhardt, former Treasurer of the city of Frankfurt Mr. Ralph Hofmann, President of the Frankfurt B'nai Brith Loge Prof. Marek Glezerman Dr. Roth gave a beautiful and moving speech honoring the work of the group and encouraging participants to pledge a donation. Prof. Glezerman spoke about the new possibilities in treatments after chemotherapy and radiation and reported on an impressive operation on young women, whose ovaries were saved and replanted after treatment to give them the possibility to reproduce her own children. People were fascinated by these new and innovative treatments. The main event was followed by entertainment by Israeli singer Dganit Daddo accompanied by Yuval Kaido on the piano. She performed in Yiddish, Ladino, Hebrew and English and the audience grew enthused. Then there was dancing into the night with the Jose Rodriguez Band. The event was held at the Flamingo Hotel in Frankfurt; the hotel manager Mr. Ignatz Blodinger of blessed memory, who passed away this year, was a dedicated longtime supporter of the Friends of the ICA in Frankfurt and he did not make it to participate in this event as he had wished.

107 ICA USA West Palm Beach, Florida The season began with the Board of Directors installing three new board members: Mr. Roger Benjamin, Rick Stone and Lexye Aversa. Mr. Benjamin was founder, owner and chairman for 38 years of the board of M.H. Hausman Company, a real estate and investment and management company in Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Stone is a successful securities attorney with a focus on class action litigation. Ms. Aversa is director of the Women s Chamber of Commerce of Palm Beach County and a director of the Palm Beach County Hotel & Lodging Association. She is President of Professional Touch International - Global Incentive Travel & Meeting Planning. Mr. Roy Apple continues to serve as president of the ICA USA Board of Directors. Executive Vice-Presidents are: Deena Freeman, Gene Hoffman, Dianne Meckler and Harvey Poppel. Treasurer is Mr. Joel Levine and Secretary is Mr. Richard Karp. ICA USA was a proud sponsor of the prestigious American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Centennial Conference held in Jerusalem, November 3-6, Fourteen ICA USA Board Members contributed to the sponsorship of the conference banquet on November 6th. On December 7, 2008 ICA USA held its Annual Membership Brunch at The Four Seasons Resort in Palm Beach. The guest speaker was Mr. Charles Bronfman, worldrenowned philanthropist and entrepreneur. He established the Andrea and Charles Bronfman Philanthropies, Inc., a family of charitable foundations operating in Israel, the U.S. and Canada whose mission is to develop, implement and support initiatives that strengthen the unity of the Jewish people. Mr. Bronfman spoke about his dedication to breast cancer research. Mr. Jan Willinger of Palm Beach served as chairwoman of the event which also featured a Silent Auction with exquisite pieces created by talented artists from the Association of Israel s Decorative Arts (AIDA). Dr. Ido Wolf, Oncologist, Principal Scientist, Cancer Research Center of Sheba Medical Center at Tel Hashomer, Israel, was invited to be a guest of ICA USA. He met with the directors of ICA as well as potential donors. Dr. Wolf was invited to be the guest speaker on December 16th at the Palm Beach home of ICA USA board members Joan and David Genser. Dr. Wolf received a research fellowship from ICA and in his lecture he presented his uniqe research findings: "A recently discovered connection between aging and breast cancer the hormone Klotho". Left to right: Dr. Ido Wolf, Mr. Roger Benjamin The presentation was a huge success. Dr. Wolf s travel costs to South Florida were underwritten by ICA USA board member Mr. Richard Stone. 109

108 Fellowships ICA USA cancer research fellowships for 2008 donated by: 110 Linda R. Kaminow, Linda R. Kaminow in memory of Claire and Emmanuel G. Rosenblatt, Harry & Ida Shooster, ICA USA in honor of Ida & Harry Shooster, Ida & Harry Shooster, ICA USA in honor of Linda R. Kaminow, Nancy and Peter Brown, David Markin in honor of his wife Tracy. Canada Mr. Doron Opher, President of the Friends of the ICA in Canada continues his devoted activity on behalf of the Israel Cancer Association. Switzerland This year, the Friends of the ICA in Switzerland, headed by Dr. Ronald Fried, and outgoing Chairman Dr. H. Evilau continue supporting cancer research, and this year financed the outstanding research of Dr. Asaf Friedler on: Control of Mediating Apoptosis by P53 Protein: Basis for the Design of Anti-Cancer Drugs. The big event this year was the visit of Nobel Prize winner Prof. Robert Aumann from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. Swiss Friends of the ICA together with the Jewish community of Basel sponsored and organized this weekend. Professor Aumann gave two separate speeches on Game theory and Game theory and war and peace in the Middle East. An additional Gala-Dinner was held in the community center and attended by a majority of members of the jewish community in Basel and guests. All proceeds were advanced to the fight against cancer. Left to right: Dr. Ronald Freied, Prof. Robert Aumann Munich The annual fundraiser of the Friends of ICA in Munich, headed by the dedicated and energetic Mrs. Anita Kaminski began at the new synagogue, followed by an Israeli dinner at the Einstein restaurant. The guests were welcomed by Ms. Charlotte Knobloch, leader of the "Zentralrat of Jews in Germany" and Mrs. Kaminski. The famous German comedian Willy Astor performed to the enjoyment of the audience and a great Tombola (Italian bingo-like game) with donation of two flights to Spain was held. The impressive evening was concluded with Mrs. Anita Kaminski's speech about the aims of ICA and the reading of 's letter. The guests enjoyed the evening tremendously. Standing from right: Anita Kaminski, Charlotte Knobloch, Ulrike Heuss, Helga v.ferenczy, Christa Volke, Julia Kaisser Sitting from the right: Laili Gitbud, Nira Schneider.

109 Berlin In May 2008, the Joint Germany-Israel Friends of the ICA in Berlin, headed by President Ruth Galinski, and Vice Presidents Mr. Mike Zehden and Mr. Alfred Weiss, as well as Organizational Manager Beatrice Laub, marked 20 years of activity on behalf of children with cancer. The event took place at the Jewish Museum in Berlin. Holland The Friends of the ICA in Holland continues to sponsor the Annual Family Vacation project held during the Sukkot holiday for families with a child who has cancer Give Kids the World. The Chapter, headed by Mr. Bob Drake, financed the purchase of a special wheelchair for easy access to places such as the beach, for the use of terminally ill cancer patients. The wheelchair was purchased as part of the "Wishes Ambulance" project that will be run jointly by the ICA and the Magen David Adom, upon the initiative of Mrs. Yael Gra. For more details about the project please see the "Welfare and Rehabilitation" chapter. London The Friends of ICA in London, headed by devoted Ms. Vered Aaron and committee members held the annual event on January There was a delicious buffet dinner prepared by the committee members. All those who attended also enjoyed the musical performance of the talented young Israeli Sagi who had performed for the Queen of England on her birthday. The evening continued with an auction with all proceeds going towards the advancement of the fight against cancer diseases in Israel. The wonderful evening ended with a presentation of Dr. Sigal Sadetski on her research of the impact of new and old technologies of cell phones and x-rays. The Reuben Foundation Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Linn Clinic in Haifa has been under construction and was inaugurated in October With the generous contribution of David and Simon Reuben and family, and the fundraising event held by the Friends of ICA in London, chaired by Ms. Vered Aaron, the clinic now functions for the benefit of the patients. Friends of ICA in London assisted in the purchase of an ovary freezing system for unmarried women, prior to chemotherapy treatment. The system was purchased for Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva. 111 (from right to left): David and Simon Reuben at the inauguration of the Reuben Foundation Comprehensive Breast Care Center at the Linn Clinic in Haifa

110 Annual Door Knock Fundraising Campaign Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, and Benny Steinmetz, Chairman of the Annual Door Knock Campaign 2007, announced the launch of the ICA Door Knock Fundraising Campaign, held at October 15-16, Dr. Micha Bar-Hanna, Director of the National Cancer Registry at the Ministry of Health, presented a "Map of Cancer in Israel" for the year 2007; Prof. Gadi Rennert, revealed a new research study that discovered that Jewish women of Eastern European and Iraqi descent have identical genetic mutations that cause about 10% of all breast cancer cases, and that mutation carriers and women who are not mutation carriers have the same chances of recoverey. Prof. Eliezer Robinson and Mrs. Miri Ziv, announced at the press conference that the ICA would provide an augmented research grant of 150,000 shekels this year which would be earmarked for the research of environment and cancer. It should be noted that over the years, the ICA has granted tens of millions of shekels to research in diverse fields related to cancer diseases. According to the National Cancer Registry statistics presented at the press conference, there are currently 200,000 cancer patients and survivors in Israel. This accounts for about 3% of the general Israeli population. Prof. Eliezer Robinson, ICA Chairman, reported: "The Israel Cancer Association has set itself the objective of continuing its activities on behalf of all sectors of the population of the State of Israel: to provide education on cancer prevention to the general population, and to increase the chances of a cure and to enhance quality of life of cancer patients. Cancer survival rates are steadily on the rise, as are the number of survivors who wish to return to their normal routine, regular work and a normal life, with the shadow of the disease behind them. Soon there will be a more comprehensive research study conducted in Israel to examine the needs of survivors here, the extent to which they reintegrate into society and their return to their normal routine. This study will be conducted in order to identify survivors' needs and thereby enhance their quality of life, as well as their families' quality of life". The research is based on a questionnaire courtesy of the Lance Armstrong Foundation, which conducted a similar study in the United States that cited the needs of cancer survivors in different states. Benny Steinmetz, Chairman of the Annual Door Knock Fundraising Campaign 2007, delivered the following greetings: "The Door Knock Campaign has become an inseparable part of Israeli life, and constitutes, in my opinion, a symbol of a community that enlists to achieve the noblest objective of all saving lives. I wish a speedy and full recovery to thousands of patients who benefit from diverse ICA activities, and I wish good luck to all those taking part in this campaign:

111 the school children, volunteers and ICA employees, and I would like to thank in advance all those who donate and join this significant battle against cancer." Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, announced that: "The battle against cancer is our common battle both of the general population and cancer patients. The donations that will be collected during the Door Knock Campaign will enable the ICA to endeavor on several fronts: from promoting research by providing research grants to dozens of physicians and scientists, diverse activities to prevent cancer such as the 'Michal' mobile mammography Unit which bridges gaps in early detection between different sectors of the Israeli population, and ending with early detection and assistance for patients by purchasing innovative medical instruments for hospitals and financing the employment of nurses and social workers in hospital wards and within the community. ICA marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this month, concurrent with the international month marked throughout the globe. The early detection rates in Israel are on the rise as are survival rates. I call upon every woman to get to know her breasts and in case of any changes to see her doctor. Every woman over the age of 50 must undergo a mammography screening test on a regular basis once every two years. Women with a 'family history' of breast cancer must undergo a mammography screening once a year, from the age of 40, or according to their physician's recommendation. Carriers of the known mutation must have undergo an MRI scan. Many women undergo mammography screening but do not do so on a regular basis or according to recommendations. Just remember early detection can save lives and may result in a 90% chance of recovery and more". New research study discussed at the press conference reveals: Jews of Eastern European and Iraqi descent have identical genetic mutations that cause about 10% of breast cancer cases. It further emerged that genetic mutation carriers and non-carriers have the same chances of recovering. 1,514 breast cancer patients were examined in the comprehensive research study conducted by the Communal Medicine Dept. and the National Cancer Control Center of the Clalit Healthcare Services at Carmel Medical Center and the Rappaport Faculty of Medicine at the Technion, by a staff headed by Prof. Gad Rennert in collaboration with Prof. Steven Narod of the University of Toronto Canada. The results of the case analysis showed that the chances of survival among women with a genetic mutation that led to breast cancer, were at least as good as those among breast cancer patients who were non-carriers. The scientists explained these findings by a different treatment reaction in breast cancer patients who were genetic mutation carriers, and women who contracted breast cancer with no genetic mutations. "Contrary to what was anticipated, we found that there is no difference in survival between carriers and non-carriers. In spite of the fact that mutation carriers contract the disease with more severe clinical manifestations that are usually connected with low survival rates: they have no receptors for estrogen in the tumor and the tumors usually appear in a low differentiation level. An additional important finding indicated that among carriers, the size of the tumor has no impact on survival 113

112 as opposed to the case in women who are non-carriers. There was a slight indication that chemotherapy in carrier women is of greater benefit than in non-carriers, lowering the mortality risk by up to 50%", explains Prof. Rennert. The frequency of genetic disorders unique to people of Jewish descent was discovered for the first time in a population of non-ashkenazi (none-eastern European) Jewish heritage, and it was found that they also appear in the Jewish population of Iraqi descent at a frequency of 7% and focus on a mutation in one gene, BRCA1. To date, two genes with mutations have been discovered; these mutations significantly increase the risk of contracting breast and ovarian cancer. In the Jewish population of Ashkenazi and Iraqi descent it emerged that these mutations are responsible for about 10% of all breast cancer cases. The results of this research study were recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Types of prevalent cancers in Israel updated for 2007 According to the statistics of the National Cancer Registry of the Health Ministry, there are currently 200,000 cancer patients and survivors in Israel, 120,000 of whom are cancer patients undergoing treatment or being monitored (the count refers to 5 years from the day the disease was detected). 25,000 new cancer patients are detected in Israel each year, 450 of them children. 114 The following are the most prevalent types of cancer in Israel, as publicized at the press conference: Breast cancer about 4,000 women each year. Colorectal cancer - about 3,200 women and men each year. Prostate cancer about 2,000 men each year. Lung cancer about 1,500 women and men each year. Lymph node cancer (Hodgkin's and non-hodgkin's) about 1,300 women and men each year. Skin cancer (melanoma only) about 1,200 women and mean each year. Bladder cancer about 1,100 women and men each year. Brain cancer, Kidney cancer, Blood cancer (leukemia), Stomach cancer - about 600 women and men each year. Pancreatic cancer about 500 women and men each year. Uterine cancer about 400 women each year.

113 Tens of thousands of school students and members of youth movements participated in the fundraising campaign held from Oct. 15, 2007 to Oct. 16, The children knocked on doors to raise funds for 120,000 cancer patients in Israel undergoing treatment or under surveillance. About 5,000 ICA volunteers spread throughout ICA's 70 branches joined the school students and youth movement members. These volunteers included new immigrants and volunteers from the Arab populace, as well as cancer survivors who joined the campaign. Volunteer representatives from all sectors of Israeli society participated in this event, representing ICA's 70 branches throughout the country. Due to the high school teachers' union strike, the number of students who went to knock on doors was drastically reduced. Each year, over 70,000 students go knocking on doors, whereas this year less than 50,000 were involved in the campaign. Upon the completion of the door knock fundraising campaign, the ICA invited the general population who didn't donate to donate via SMS by sending the number 10 to the number 5999 for each SMS 10 shekels were donated to the ICA, courtesy of cellact. Similarly, people could donate at supermarkets and franchises participating in the campaign: McDonald's, Mega, Mega Ba'ir, Ribua Hakachol, Shefa Shuk, Shufersal, Shufersal Big, Shufersal Deal, Shufersal Sheli, and ACE. The donations that were collected during the Door Knock fundraising campaign will enable the ICA to purchase innovative medical devices for medical centers treating cancer patients, as well as to finance dozens of cancer research studies conducted by physicians and investigators in Israel and throughout the globe in the hopes of finding a cure to cancer diseases, conduct informational activities in order to promote cancer awareness among the general population, initiate and construct national early detection programs of different types of cancers, which could lead to higher recovery rates, support financially cancer patients in need, assist child cancer patients in keeping up with their homework, running summer vacations for cancer patients and their families, establishing cancer wards at hospitals throughout the country, financing the employment of nurses and social workers who assist cancer patients at hospitals and community clinics, and more. 115

114 According to tradition the Honorable President of the State of Israel launched the "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign and made the first donation pledge 116 Flash 90 - free of charge On the evening prior to the launching of the "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign, the traditional opening ceremony was held at the Presidential Residence in Jerusalem, with the Honorable President of the State of Israel, Mr. Shimon Peres participating. Mr. Peres opened the 46th annual "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign in the presence of many distinguished guests. The President of the State of Israel made a donation pledge on his behalf and on behalf of the Presidential Residence. Mr. Shimon Peres delivered the following remarks at the ceremony: "Cancer is not the tragedy of one person, but rather of an entire family. A difficult and challenging battle lies ahead. I thank you all on behalf of the entire nation to save one life is equivalent to saving the entire world. I call upon all citizens to enlist in meeting this lofty objective". Ms. Ruthy Shitrit, ICA Chairperson of Foreign Relations, was awarded certificates of appreciation for her energetic activity in the "Give Kids the World" Foundation established by the ICA, along with Ruthy and MK Meir Shitrit, in memory of their daughter, Miri, who died of cancer. Through this Foundation, children at an advanced stage of the disease travel with their families to the Children's Village in Orlando, for what is often participants' last experience together as a family. A certificate of appreciation was also awarded to Abas Suan, who volunteered for ICA's informational campaign to increase cancer prevention and early detection awareness among the Arab population. Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, addressed the Honorable President: "As Israel's new President, the torch has been passed to you, as patron of the 'Door Knock' Fundraising Campaign, a national campaign that is relevant to the entire population, the general population and cancer patients alike, children and adults, women and men. On behalf of the ICA and on behalf of all cancer patients and their families, we wish to express our support for you and wish you success and thank you and you, the volunteers: your extensive activity throughout the year provides patients with hope and

115 renewed spirit and assists them in persevering in their struggle against disease and all the difficulties involved. Your personal support justifies all our gratitude and appreciation". ICA Chairman, Prof. Eliezer Robinson, said that today about 50% of adult cancer patients and 80% of child patients are recovering from the disease. "There is still a long road ahead, however, it should be noted that increasing survival rates over the years provide hope for a future in which all cancer diseases will be eradicated". Ohad Chitman, who recovered from cancer, became an active and dedicated ICA volunteer. Ohad, a popular singer, sang the song "From the darkness", he wrote about his own struggle with the disease. Ohad is a member of the Young Adults Group, for year olds starting their independent lives in the aftermath of the disease. With the help of ICA professionals and volunteers, this group holds jeep tours and special treks. The young adults emerge with renewed energy and a feeling of being reinforced. The outgoing "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign Chairman for , Mr. Avigdor Kaplan, handed over the torch to this year's Chairman, Mr. Benny Steinmetz. This year's campaign target was set at 10 million shekels. Mr. Steinmetz donated one million shekels and personally enlisted his business colleagues to donate to the ICA. Health Minister, Yaakov Ben Izri, said: "The war against cancer is a national objective of top priority..in the State of Israel's painful economic slowdown and difficult financial situation, we need to rely on noteworthy associations to assist us. I call upon the Israeli citizens today to open their pockets and their hearts and to contribute to the ICA". 117

116 "Door knock" Campaign and 2007 Activity Closing Ceremony The annual conference summing up activity for 2007 was held in Givatayim in early March, in the presence of Givatayim's Mayor, Mr. Reuven Ben Shachar. Veteran and novice volunteers gathered from all over Israel and convened for the traditional yearly meeting. The Children's Choir of Tel Hai School in Haifa, under the direction of musical director Mr. Felix Shpitz, opened the event and moved the audience. The Tel Hai School participates in the annual "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign each year, and last year received the award of excellence for their contribution to the campaign and for the great commitment demonstrated by the students who raised funds. ICA President, Mr. Benny Gaon of blessed memory, moved all those present when on a personal note, he picturesquely and poetically described his own persistent battle with the disease (see separate frame). ICA Chairman, Prof. Robinson, and ICA Vice Chairman, Mr. Leon Recanati, delivered greetings and emphasized the laudable activity of ICA volunteers and their significant contribution to the advancement of the fight against cancer. Mrs. Miri Ziv, ICA Director General, warmly greeted the audience and gave an overview of ICA's 2007 activity. Gabi Weiss, Head of Branches Dept. and Door Knock Fundraising Campaign Manager, cited and commended the devoted work 118

117 of branch volunteers who tirelessly assist in promoting the significant objectives of the fight against cancer. Certificates of appreciation were awarded to outstanding volunteers, and shields and certificates of excellence in various categories were also presented. Deceased volunteers were remembered at the ceremony, and on a different note, mention was made of those volunteers who were awarded certificates of excellence in their cities for their laudable volunteer activity. The ICA also parted ways with two retiree chair persons: Rivka Sternfeld and Tzippi Cohen and welcomed their replacements. The Dimona Branch was mentioned this year as the Outstanding Branch for Mr. Abu Ahmed, Chairman of the Nazareth Branch, delivered greetings on behalf of the volunteers. Prof. Rafi Catane, member of the ICA Research Committee and Director of the Oncology Institute at Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, awarded research grants to outstanding research scientists and Dr. Ella Evron, Director of the Breast Health Care Institute at Assaf Harofe Medical Center, delivered thanks on behalf of the fellowship recipients. To conclude the ceremony, comedienne Dina Or delivered a performance that featured skits from her act "it'll end in roaring laughter", and indeed the ceremony ended with a big smile, with all those present emerging content and feeling good. 119

118 Segments from the candid and moving greetings delivered by Benny Gaon of blessed memory at the closing ceremony of the "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign March "In my childhood home, the word 'disease' was analogous to catastrophe. The word 'cancer' was never mentioned, and if it was referred to by mistake by a visitor or a relative who dared utter the forbidden word, it would evoke a harsh response from my mother. 'Leshos!' she would say angrily. 'Leshos!', or 'far away' in Ladino, as though with mere words she could drive out the evil spirits brought by whomever dared utter the 'C' word. We were raised to think that just by talking about cancer you could catch the disease. Even when we realized this wasn't the case, we preferred not to talk about the 'dreaded disease'. Weren't there enough things to talk about? 'Leshos!' We grew up in a wary atmosphere in terms of anything that had to do with the body in general, and health in particular. We were raised to think that our body is almost a separate entity from us, something that requires almost mystical treatment, and in any case, it was an infrastructure that had only two scenarios: complete health or clinical and final death. There was no in between. Cancer easily topped the list of threatening diseases. It was an unmentionable monster, the shadow lurking under your bed, the sharp blade of the Angel of Death awaiting the first opportunity to snatch another soul. Compared to cancer, heart attack was a walk in the park, and hepatitis a spring afternoon. This is how things were during my adolescence and for most of my adulthood. When I was relatively older, I had the good fortune of being appointed President of the Israel Cancer Association, at the request of my friends Leon Recanati, Prof. Eliezer Robinson and Miri Ziv.. There is a huge difference between a patient who withdraws from society, draws the blinds, and shuts the lights, basically saying: 'I give up', and a patient who enlists all his mental strength and goes to battle. I am convinced that some of the people who contracted cancer could have recovered or could have lived longer, had they not associated the word 'malignant' with certain powers of which it is not worthy. 'Malignant' is a medical term 'the desire to live' is an emotional and spiritual definition which I believe, in all honesty, has an impact on the patient's condition. Moreover: if you have decided 'to give up', you have not only killed yourself, but you have also killed your loved ones, and those around you. Fight not only for yourselves but also for those who want you to recover, and who will mourn your passing.

119 What I gained from this experience is mainly the sense of responsibility, for my health and for those around me. I have learned that during a medical crisis, there's always someone you can depend on: physicians, nurses, an entire network and the ICA that stands by your side. I have learned that to a great extent, a man's fate is in his own hands, or at least to a 'certain' extent. We still haven't been able to expropriate God's monopoly on the bumps in the road of our lives. Additionally, I would like to talk about another oxygen, a different kind of fuel that keeps the system going, and about the need for courage and mental strength in large quantities, that burst forth issuing from within, and gust around your body, until these forces converge into one strong current, because basically, in this horrible confrontation, there is always a massive attack on your body, led by a destructive white army that persistently and cruelly seeks to devour, devastate and upset the balance between the enemy task force and the red army in your body; this is when you courageously connect in cast lead with life's backup team, through transparent tubes comparable to outside auxiliary forces, to help defeat and eradicate the white army and to make it revert back to its natural state, and then when the battle is over and the soldiers are exhausted, and everyone takes respite, so do you!!! Until the next battle. And hence, and in spite of the fact that you are surrounded and embraced by loved ones from all sides, you wage the real war with yourself, with incorrigible strength that is larger than life!!! And you, the white winged volunteer angels who come and lend a hand, sent from heaven above, perform a holy deed with all your heart and with great respect and we, the fighters, all thank you for this". Benny Gaon 121 About two and half months after delivering his moving speech at the "Door Knock" Fundraising Campaign closing ceremony, ICA's President succumbed to cancer. The ICA extends its heartfelt condolences and mourns the untimely passing of its President. May his memory be blessed.

120 Annual Door Knock Fundraising Campaign Chairmen The following is a list of public figures who served as Door Knock Campaign Chairman on behalf of the Israel Cancer Association. Former Chairmen and the positions held at the time of appointment: Lt. General (Res.) Mr. Haim Laskow (dec.), Managing Director, Port Authority 1963 Attorney Gideon Hausner (dec.), Government Legal Advisor 1964 Mr. David Ben-Gurion (dec.), Israel s first Prime Minister and a Member of Knesset 1965 Mr. Kadish Luz (dec.), Knesset Speaker 1966 Mr. Yisrael Barzilai (dec.), Minister of Health 1967 Mr. Yigal Alon (dec.), Minister of Labor 1968 Mr. Teddy Kolleck (dec.), Mayor of Jerusalem 1969 Mr. David Horowitz (dec.), Governor, Bank of Israel 1970 Prof. Albert Sabin (dec.), President, Weizmann Institute of Science 1971 Mr. Victor Shem Tov, Minister of Health 1972 Mr. Yosef Almogi (dec.), Minister of Labor 1973 Mr. Shimon Peres, Minister of Defense 1974 Mr. Asher Yadlin (dec.), Chairman, Clalit Healthcare Fund 1975 Dr. Yosef Burg (dec.), Minister of the Interior 1976 Mr. Mark Moshewitz (dec.), President, Manufacturers Association 1977 Mr. Gideon Patt, Minister of Housing and Construction 1978 Mr. Yisrael Pollack (dec.), Industrialist, Textile Conglomerate Owner 1979 Mr. Benno Gitter (dec.), Economist, Businessman 1980 Mr. Moshe Schnitzer (dec.), President, Israel Diamond Exchange 1981 Mr. David Hachmey (dec.) Chairman, Insurance Companies Association 1982 Mr. Yekutiel Federman (dec.), Hotelier, Businessman 1983 M r. A h a r o n M e i r ( d e c. ), Managing Director, Bank Hamizrahi Hameuhad 1984 Mr. Avraham Agmon (dec.), Managing Director, Delek Co Mr. Mordechai Gur (dec.), Minister of Health 1986 Mr. Shlomo Lahat, Mayor of Tel Aviv 1987 Mr. Yisrael Kessar, Secretary General, Labor Union 1988 Mr. Dani Gillerman, President, Chamber of Commerce Association 1989 Mr. Leon Recanati, Co-Director, I.D.B Mr. Ehud Olmert, Minister of Health 1991 Mr. Simcha Dinitz (dec.), Chairman, Jewish Agency 1992 Mr. Eli Horowitz, Managing Director, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Mr. Benny Gaon (dec.), Managing Director, Koor Industries Ltd.

121 1994 Mr. Emanuel Gil, President, Elbit 1995 Mr. David Wainshal, Managing Director, Migdal Insurance Ltd Mr. Yair Hamburger, Managing Director, Shiloah-Harel Insurance Ltd Mr. Yaakov Peri, President and Managing Director, Celcom 1998 Ms. Galia Maor, Director General, Bank Leumi 1999 Mr. Shlomo Nechama, Managing Director, Arison Investments, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Bank Hapoalim 2000 Mr. Kobi Alexander, Chairman of the Board of Directors and International President, Comverse Technology 2001 Mr. Lev Leviev, Chairman, Africa Israel Investments 2002 Mr. Yossi Meiman, President of Merhav Group and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Channel Mr. Shraga Biran, Attorney and businessman 2004 Mr. Muzi Vertheim, Chairman Coca Cola Israel 2005 Mr. Israel Makov, CEO Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd Mr. Avigdor Kaplan, CEO Clal Insurance Company 2007 M r. B e n n y S t e i n m e t z, businessman 2008 Mr. Haim Katzman, Chairman of income-yielding real estate company Gazit-Globe 123

122 Bequests, Legacies and Commemorations The Israel Cancer Association deeply appreciates all its friends and volunteers who during their lifetime left special bequests to continue contributing to ICA activities for the patients and against the disease. Alter Israel Jacob and Lila of blessed memory Aton Babi Kalima of blessed memory Belinko Priestater Esther of blessed memory Biggs Asher of blessed memory Elisar Victor of blessed memory Kotler Geula of blessed memory Liebman Rosa of blessed memory Lieberman Haviva of blessed memory Lovitz Edith of blessed memory Mens Valdszemir Ze'ev of blessed memory Mikenbrun Jacob of blessed memory Proshovska Paula of blessed memory Rothschild Michael of blessed memory Sheinfeld Hermina of blessed memory Shoef Albert of blessed memory Silverman Fay Sirota Erwin of blessed memory Tarif Ilana of blessed memory Toledano Moise of blessed memory Windmiller Goldie of blessed memory Yaakovi Hava of blessed memory Tel Aviv Herzliya Netanya Netanya Overseas Tel Aviv Germany Tel Aviv Kiryat Haim Tel Aviv Tel Aviv Netanya Moshav Timorim Tel Aviv Germany Jerusalem Jerusalem USA Haifa 124 Commemorations Commemorations honoring the memory of loved ones may be made through the Israel Cancer Association in several ways: The name of the loved one may be engraved on an ornate plaque on the Commemorative Wall situated in the Sir Charles Clore Hostel garden, or at ICA headquarters, or in different hospital wards around the country. Commemorative Wall in the Sir Charles Clore Hostel garden in Givatayim