Statement Regarding the Abuse of OxyContin

PHILADELPHIA (February 27, 2001) -- Recent news reports have frequently focused on the potential for addiction and even death stemming from the criminal abuse of OxyContin, a pain control medication. In the past several weeks, these reports have created fear among patients who use this medication for pain control.

Patients have the right to pain relief from cancer or any other chronic condition. When OxyContin and other pain medications are prescribed and used under the guidance of a physician, they are safe and effective.� Addiction is a disease and is not caused by the appropriate prescription use of OxyContin or other opioid analgesics.

Fox Chase Cancer Center, one of the nation's first comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute in 1974, conducts basic and clinical research; programs of prevention, detection and treatment of cancer; and community outreach. For more information about Fox Chase activities, visit the Center's web site at www.fccc.edu.