Inova proton therapy shows survival benefit in landmark phase III trial for head and neck cancer patients

Proton therapy suite at Inova Mather Proton Therapy Center

FAIRFAX, VA – A new study published today in The Lancet demonstrates a significant survival benefit for patients with oropharyngeal cancers of the head and neck treated with proton therapy compared with traditional radiation therapy (photon therapy). Inova Schar Cancer and The Mather Proton Therapy Center, home to Northern Virginia’s only proton therapy center and…

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Promising results from the PATHFINDER II cancer screening study

Female scientist looking at male colleague conducting cancer research. Clinical researches are working in laboratory.

Rebecca Kaltman, MD is a board-certified hematologist oncologist. She serves as the Medical Director of the Inova Saville Cancer Screening and Prevention Center. At Inova Schar Cancer, we’re excited to share encouraging news from a major national research study called PATHFINDER II. This study is helping shape the future of cancer screening – and it’s bringing…

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Inova Schar Cancer Earns international accreditation for stem cell therapy

FACT gold seal and Inova logo

Fairfax, VA – Inova Schar Cancer has earned internationally-recognized accreditation from the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT). This accreditation recognizes Inova Schar Cancer’s excellence in delivering safe, high-quality cellular therapies in its cutting-edge program. By demonstrating full compliance with the FACT-JACIE International Standards for Cellular Therapy Product Collection, Processing, and Administration, Inova…

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Empowered to outsmart cancer

Wendy wearing "I'm gonna win" shirt in front of HOPE sculpture

How one patient turned family history into a healthier future When Wendy Wade’s mother passed away from breast cancer in May 2024, she was left with not just grief but a pressing question: Where could she turn to ensure she was not headed for the same fate?   Her mother’s oncologist recommended the Inova Saville Cancer…

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“Should Runners Be Worried About Colon Cancer?,” Runner’s World, September 19, 2025

Marathon running in the light of evening

While endurance running is widely celebrated for its health benefits, a trailblazing study led by Tim Cannon, MD, Sheridan Director of the Molecular Tumor Board and Co-Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Program at Inova Schar Cancer, reveals a surprising link to colon cancer risk. Featured in Runner’s World, the research opens important conversations around screening…

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Why subspecialized cancer care matters

A small medical team of professionals sit around a boardroom table as they meet together to discuss patient cases. They are each dressed professionally in scrubs and lab coats as they work together to find solutions for their patients.

John Deeken, MD, is president of the Inova Schar Cancer and Medical Director for the Inova Schar Head and Neck Cancer Program. He is board-certified in medical oncology and specializes in head and neck cancers. When you or someone you love is diagnosed with cancer, one of the most important decisions you face is choosing…

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Groundbreaking Inova study finds potential link between long-distance running and colon cancer

Athletes running down hill on mountain trail. Men and women running in cross country marathon race.

Fairfax, VA – A groundbreaking new study led by Tim Cannon, MD, Sheridan Director, Molecular Tumor Board and Co-Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Program at Inova Schar Cancer, has revealed a potential link between extreme endurance exercise and increased risk of advanced colon cancer in younger adults, raising new questions about screening for high-performance athletes.…

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“Are Marathons and Extreme Running Linked to Colon Cancer?,” New York Times, August 19, 2025

Running crowd at the marathon. Many runners passing the start or finish line.

Running marathons or endurance races is often seen as a hallmark of peak fitness. However, a groundbreaking new study led by Inova oncologist Tim Cannon, MD, Sheridan Director, Molecular Tumor Board and Co-Director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Program at Inova Schar Cancer, reveals a surprising prevalence of precancerous colon growths among extreme runners. Recently featured…

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Inova Schar Cancer dosimetry team shines at AAMD International Planning Competition

Historic achievement showcases excellence in proton and photon therapy planning The medical dosimetry team at Inova Schar Cancer has achieved a historic milestone at the 2025 American Association of Medical Dosimetrists (AAMD) International Planning Competition, a globally recognized event showcasing cutting-edge treatment planning expertise. Competing against 194 submissions – 103 from the United States and…

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