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CSUN ‘Biology of Cancer’ Course Offers Chance to Understand the Disease

(NORTHRIDGE, Calif., Aug. 8, 2007) — A diagnosis of cancer can lead to confusion and uncertainty, not only for the patient, but for his or her loved ones and friends as well.

Hoping to provide answers to some of their questions, noted cancer researcher and Cal State Northridge biology professor Steven Oppenheimer is opening up his annual "Biology of Cancer" class to members of the community this fall.

"When people receive a diagnosis of cancer, they have so many questions," said Oppenheimer, director of CSUN’s Center for Cancer and Developmental Biology. "This course is designed to help people understand a disease that is often misunderstood. It’s important that people have accurate information so they are not afraid to ask for proper medical help."

"Biology of Cancer" is a lower-level biology course offered as a two-unit, general education class. It is offered this fall on Mondays from 6 to 7:40 p.m. in room 2132 of Eucalyptus Hall, located near the center of the campus at 18111 Nordhoff St. in Northridge. The fall semester begins Thursday, Aug. 23.

Oppenheimer said priority seating will be given to students, but any vacant spaces are open to members of the public who want to attend a class at no charge. "Members of the public are welcome to come in, listen, ask questions and learn," he said.>

The class attracts top experts who lecture on cancer epidemiology, quackery, pathology, breast and skin cancers, radiation, the diagnosis process and a variety of other topics. Oppenheimer discusses the types of cancer, its diagnosis, treatments, causes and prevention.

Oppenheimer said he opens the class up to the community as a public service.

"I think universities have an obligation to reach out to the community as much as possible with respect to issues that are really critical for the health and well-being of the community," he said.

Oppenheimer has taught "Biology of Cancer" for nearly 30 years. His efforts have earned him the Public Education Award from the American Cancer Society. It was Oppenheimer’s groundbreaking work on cancer cell surface and adhesion that prompted the American Cancer Society to approach him nearly three decades ago about creating one of the first "Biology of Cancer" classes in the nation.

For more information about the course, call Oppenheimer at (818) 677-3336.