Research has shown that the immune system doesn’t function properly in patients with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that occurs when plasma cells — a type of white blood cell — multiply out of control. But a clinical trial led by Jens Hillengass, MD, PhD, Chief of Myeloma at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, shows that exercise may have the power to strengthen the immune system in those patients, providing a nonpharmaceutical method of helping control the disease.

Oncologists, epidemiologists and basic, translational and clinical researchers from Roswell Park have been invited to present their own research surrounding cancer management, ongoing clinical trials and more at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Research (ASCO) in Chicago, Illinois, June 2 to 6.

Every year, more than 30,000 people contact the New York State Smokers’ Quitline for help in ending their dependence on commercial tobacco products. That lifeline will remain in place, thanks to the New York State Health Department’s renewal of its contract with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, home of the Quitline since it began 23 years ago. Awarded on a competitive basis, the $20 million contract ensures funding for the program for the next five years.