H. Kim Lyerly, MD
AAADV Chair
Duke University
Richard Schilsky, MD
Professor emeritus
University of Chicago
Hybred event May 14-15, 2025
Leaders in clinical and translational cancer research from academia, industry, government and nonprofit advocacy sectors convene each spring in Bethesda, Maryland, for the AAADV Workshop, a unique forum designed to speed cancer treatments to patients. This four-day, Virtual interactive workshop offers a mix of small group lectures, moderated discussions, plenary lectures and facilitated case studies of successful drug applications. Participants gain valuable insights on negotiating the spectrum of successful drug development and hone their strategic planning skills with a focus on target validation and pathway identification. AAADV is the only workshop held in collaboration with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration designed specifically to help participants understand and negotiate the drug development approval process so effective cancer treatments can reach patients more quickly.
The Devastating Reality of Cancer: A Call for Prevention
Every year, approximately 10 million people succumb to cancer worldwide. This staggering statistic underscores the gravity of the disease, which is a leading cause of death globally. However, what’s even more alarming is that between 30-50% of these cancer cases are preventable. This highlights the critical importance of prevention as the most cost-effective long-term strategy for controlling cancer.
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Proposal
In light of this pressing issue, the WHO has proposed a comprehensive plan to strengthen national policies and programs aimed at raising awareness about cancer risk factors, reducing exposure to these risks, and providing individuals with the necessary information and support to adopt healthy lifestyles. By doing so, people can significantly reduce their risk of developing cancer.
Key Strategies for Cancer Prevention
To effectively implement the WHO’s proposal, governments, healthcare providers, and communities must work together to:
Scholarships covering the cost of registration, travel and accommodations for the Pre-Workshop for Patient Advocate attendees are available.
Case studies of successful new drug applications feature pharmaceutical drug development teams and U.S. Food and Drug Administration officers involved in the drug approval process. Four drugs will be presented twice over the course of the Workshop.
The Core Curriculum is designed for early-career drug development investigators and covers all aspects of clinical studies: pre-clinical and clinical science, statistical structure of trials, ethical requirements and regulatory considerations. It is taught by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) medical officers and senior scientists.
AAADV Chair
Duke University
Professor emeritus
University of Chicago
Independent Consultant.
Professor, Department of Biostatistics University of Washington School of Medicine
