Some 22 percent of people with the disease have the type of lymphoma that typically follows a benign course, Lichtenfeld said.

CNN: Doctor: Fred Thompson's lymphoma in remission

We spoke to Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer at the American Cancer Society, to put this study in perspective for the everyday smoker.

CNN: Simple test may determine smokers' lung cancer risk

"To prove that a targeted therapy even worked was incredible a few years ago, " says Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society.

FORBES: Magazine Article

However, the potential risks may be acceptable to women who have no other options, said Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society.

CNN: New late-stage breast cancer treatment approved

"Many people are confused by the conflicting messages, " says Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society, which suggests getting D from supplements, not the sun.

WSJ: Vitamin D to Defend Against Disease

The American Cancer Society's Lichtenfeld says what looks like a slowing in the number of new breakthroughs could eventually translate into many more lives saved--it just turns out that the daily practice of medicine is not as exciting as the eureka moments.

FORBES: Magazine Article