MD Anderson Cancer Center

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, located in Houston, Texas, is the largest cancer center in the world and one of the most respected oncology institutions ever established. Founded in 1941 by the Texas Legislature with funding from the MD Anderson Foundation, the center was among the first three institutions designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute in 1971. MD Anderson has been ranked the number one cancer hospital in the United States by U.S. News & World Report in 20 of the last 23 years, a distinction that reflects its unwavering commitment to Making Cancer History. MD Anderson operates with 760 beds, employs more than 24,498 people, and treats over 180,000 patients annually. The medical staff includes thousands of oncologists, surgeons, researchers, and allied health professionals who specialize exclusively in cancer care. With more than 9,606 patients enrolled in clinical trials at any given time, MD Anderson runs one of the largest and most active clinical research programs in the world, providing patients with access to investigational treatments that represent the cutting edge of cancer science. The Proton Therapy Center at MD Anderson is one of the most advanced facilities of its kind, utilizing pencil beam scanning technology to deliver highly targeted radiation doses to tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This technology is particularly valuable for treating pediatric cancers, brain tumors, head and neck cancers, and tumors located near critical organs. MD Anderson also operates comprehensive radiation oncology services including intensity-modulated radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and brachytherapy. MD Anderson's Moon Shots Program represents an ambitious initiative to dramatically accelerate the pace of converting scientific discoveries into clinical advances that reduce cancer deaths. The program focuses on the most lethal cancer types and leverages multidisciplinary teams, big data analytics, and innovative clinical trial designs to bring new treatments to patients faster. The institution is also a global leader in CAR T-cell therapy, developing and administering cellular immunotherapies that have shown remarkable results in certain blood cancers and are being investigated for solid tumors. Surgical oncology at MD Anderson encompasses every type of cancer surgery, from minimally invasive robotic procedures to complex multivisceral resections. The institution's surgeons have pioneered techniques in liver surgery, pancreatic surgery, thoracic surgery, and reconstructive surgery after cancer treatment. Medical oncology programs offer the full spectrum of systemic therapies including chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, hormone therapy, and combination regimens tailored to each patient's specific tumor genetics. MD Anderson's international presence extends through affiliate programs in Madrid and Istanbul, bringing its treatment protocols and quality standards to patients across Europe and the Middle East. The dedicated International Center at MD Anderson serves patients from around the world, providing comprehensive support including referral evaluation, appointment coordination, medical record review, interpreter services, visa assistance, travel planning, lodging recommendations, and dedicated patient navigators who serve as single points of contact throughout the treatment journey. With its unparalleled focus on cancer, massive research infrastructure, innovative treatment technologies, and dedicated international patient services, MD Anderson Cancer Center stands as the world's foremost destination for cancer treatment and a beacon of hope for patients and families facing a cancer diagnosis.