Cincinnati--Saturday, October 26, the University of Cincinnati (UC) College of Medicine, The Barrett Cancer Center and The University Hospital (Health Alliance of Greater Cincinnati) are cosponsoring "Focusing on the Future," the sixth annual breast cancer symposium from 8:25 a.m. to 12:45 p.m .at the Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter, 10 W. RiverCenter Boulevard, Covington, Ky. Call the hotel (859) 261-2900 for directions. The four-hour symposium will highlight the latest cancer tools, from MRI imaging for earlier diagnosis, to new treatments for breast cancer. Participants will learn about new chemotherapeutic agents available, innovative applications of newer hormonal therapies, and the role of surgical and radiation treatments. Physicians, nurses and allied health care professionals are invited to attend the symposium, but anyone with an interest in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is welcome. Hearty brunch/lunch items and refreshments will be served throughout the conference. Elyse Lower, MD, UC professor of hematology/oncology, will give the introductory remarks at 8:25 a.m.

Topics, speakers and approximate times include:

9 a.m. "Quasar Modalities for High-Risk Patients: MRI and other Imaging Advancements"

Steven Harms, MD, professor and director of imaging research, Department of Radiology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and medical director of Aurora Imaging Technology, Inc.

9:15 a.m. "Stellar Surgical Strategies

Edgar Saren, MD, professor/chairman, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Toledo

10 a.m. "Innovative Dimensions in Hormone Therapy"

Charles Vogel, MD, clinical professor, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami School of Medicine

11:15 a.m. "Chemotherapy: Exploring New Galaxies"

Charles Shapiro, MD, associate professor of medicine, The Ohio State University, Director of Breast Medical Oncology

Noon "Promising Advances in Brachytherapy"

Robert Kuske, MD, professor, Department of Human-Oncology in Radiation-Oncology, University of Wisconsin.

The (CME) credit course costs $20 for residents, fellows, and nurses and $40 for practicing physicians. To register, call Lynn Fisher at (513) 558-2827 or log onto www.cme.uc.edu.