ROANOKE -- The West Virginia Oncology Society was formed just months ago, but it is already gaining national recognition. The group just recently became affiliated with the American Society of Clinical Oncology. WVOS President Dr. John Azer says the society has had a great response in the state.

"Around 85 percent of oncologists in the state are members of the society."

The society had its first ever gathering on Friday at Stonewall Jackson Resort. One-hundred and fifty doctors, nurses, and pharmacists came to the meeting, which put a large focus on education.

"Now we have 6 drugs coming out every month," says Azer. "We struggle just to stay abreast. Things are moving very fast. It makes sense for people to get together and discuss the new advances."

Many centers in the state, like WVU's Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, are expanding. Doctors say that new technology is helpful, but isn't the most important thing.

"Technology is great, but nothing replaces the medical knowledge of the physician," said Azer.

Doctors say a major focus of the society is getting clinical trials into more rural areas of the state.

"The only way we can make improvements in the treatment of cancer is clinical trials," said Jame Abraham from WVU Hospitals. "You know that cancer treatments are not perfect at this point. We can make it better by finding new treatments."