Cancer strikes one in every 333 persons by the age of 19. Despite a high cure rate, the development of cancer in youngsters -- just as they begin to face the promise of life -- is tragic and can place parents and siblings in a remarkably stressful situation, both short and long term.

Cancer centers that specialize in the treatment of children and young adults have traditionally been located in large cities. As a result significant burdens have been placed on families committed to the best and most appropriate therapies for their children on Staten Island.

Staten Island University Hospital's alliance with the North Shore University Health System has provided local access to the leadership cancer treatment programs of the Childrens Cancer Group-- which is composed of the nation's leading medical centers. The Children's Cancer Group stresses advanced treatment in a supportive and family-oriented network.

As a Collaborating Institution in the Children's Cancer Group and in conjunction with the renowned treatment and research specialists at North Shore University Hospital, Staten Island University Hospital has achieved equal footing with the Manhattan-based cancer center is due to its access to North Shore's Children's Cancer Center Group state-of-the-art treatment programs.

Modeled after North Shore University Hospital's Children's Cancer Center, the Island-based center will employ a comprehensive team approach of board-certified pediatric subspecialists, pediatric surgeons, specialty surgeons, radiation therapists and a support staff that includes specialized pediatric nurses, psychologists, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, and nutritionists.

Staten Island University Hospital's Children's Cancer Center will be based at the Nalitt Institute for Cancer and Blood-Related Diseases. Daniel Potaznik, M.D., a Pediatric Oncology and Hematology specialist, will direct the program. Dr. Potaznik, who has 17 years experience in pediatric oncology/hematology, trained at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and is board certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.

A team of accomplished pediatric specialists, led by Joseph Kochen, M.D., Director of North Shore's Children's Center will come to Staten Island University Hospital to meet with the Island based staff for regular consultations and training. Similarly, staff of the Island program will go to North Shore University hospital in Manhasset, N. Y. to observe and participate in the treatment of its cancer patients.

Patients who choose treatment at Staten Island University Hospital will be able to receive all of their diagnostic studies and therapies on Staten Island after their initial treatment at the North Shore facility. Dr. Potaznik will help manage the care of Island children while they are at North Shore for inclusion in Children's Cancer Group programs and the first stage of their treatment.

Local children who are now being treated at other CCG facilities may be able to continue their care at Staten Island University Hospital future. Other CCG facilities in the area include Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Care Center, New York University Hospital and Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

The Children's Cancer Center will stress advanced and compassionate treatment for youngsters on Staten Island. The program will be provided through a supportive and family-oriented approach that will feature a variety of allied services, including patient and family groups.

Chairman of Pediatrics