Understanding the Causes of Cancer and How to Prevent it

Leslie Bernstein, M.S., Ph.D., is director of the Division of Cancer Etiology which is in the Department of Population Sciences at City of Hope. An internationally recognized epidemiologist known for establishing the connection between exercise and reduced breast cancer risk. Bernstein leads a research program that focuses on the genetic and environmental causes of cancer to identify new cancer prevention strategies. Dr. Bernstein seeks to find ways women can improve their lives and prevent breast cancer simply by the choices they make every day. She received her master’s degree in gerontology and Ph.D. in biometry from the University of Southern California.

Melanie Palomares, M.D., M.S., is an Assistant Professor in the departments of Medical Oncology and Population Sciences. In addition to being board certified in Internal Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology, Dr. Palomares has a master’s degree in Epidemiology. This unique multidisciplinary training has led to her specialization in the care of both patients who are at increased risk for cancer and cancer survivors. Her research focus is in breast cancer prevention and early detection, and she has conducted many clinical trials in the use of drugs and other therapies to prevent breast cancer, including trials using natural products.