Campaign Highlights Importance of Molecular Testing in Lung Cancer

NEW YORK, Nov 14, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) — –People with Lung Cancer Invited to Submit Their Personal Stories

Kathryn Joosten, two-time Emmy(R) Award-winning actress and star of Desperate Housewives and The West Wing, is opening up about her 10-year battle with lung cancer as part of a new national campaign, Lung Cancer Profiles. Lung Cancer Profiles aims to reduce the stigma associated with lung cancer by educating about the diversity of the disease inside and out. The campaign, created by Pfizer Oncology in collaboration with the nation’s leading lung cancer advocacy groups, also seeks to educate about the role of molecular testing and its potential to uncover the unique genetic drivers of each person’s cancer, which can help doctors devise an individualized treatment plan rather than using a one-size-fits all approach.

“I have lung cancer and it’s nothing to hide–anyone can get lung cancer, everyone’s cancer is different and it’s reassuring that the science is catching on,” Ms. Joosten said. “When my cancer returned after eight years, I was discouraged, but my doctor recommended I get my tumor tested to see if it would affect my treatment plan. We were able to identify my particular type of lung cancer and find a clinical trial designed specifically for people with my tumor type. I am passionate about this campaign because I know, first-hand, how hard it can be to learn you have lung cancer, how important it is to get tested and how impactful sharing my story might be on the lives of others with lung cancer.”