Dr. Patricia Ganz has spent the past two decades studying the quality of life outcomes for patients with cancer. In recent years she has focused her efforts on the late medical effects of treatment in women with breast cancer (for example, menopause, osteoporosis, fatigue and cognitive function). She also is active in the prevention of cancer and runs a program for high-risk women with a family history of breast cancer within the Revlon/UCLA Breast Center. Related to this, she has developed the Family Registry and Genetic Evaluation Program within the cancer center that provides confidential genetic counseling and testing for individuals with a family history of cancer.

Ganz and her associates are examining fatigue, sleep and cognitive functioning in a variety of studies, and are exploring the immunological and physiological mechanisms underlying these issues. They are also testing psychological/behavioral and alternative therapies such as yoga for their role in ameliorating these symptoms. In a study that will be initiated soon, the researchers will examine the possibility of blocking symptoms of fatigue by use of TNF alpha blocker (infliximab).

In her other research, Ganz is conducting a variety of cancer prevention and treatment trials, focusing on women at high risk for breast cancer and men at risk for prostate cancer. She also is the principal investigator for the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) treatment trials at UCLA, and chairs the Behavioral and Health Outcomes committee of the NSABP.