Five Transformative Innovations from the University of Colorado Cancer Center on Its 40th Anniversary

Celebrating 40 Years of Innovation: CU Cancer Center's Impact on Cancer Care

As the University of Colorado Cancer Center (CU Cancer Center) marks its 40th anniversary, it stands at the forefront of revolutionary cancer treatments and research, having made significant contributions to patient care within Colorado and beyond. Founded in 1985 and awarded National Cancer Institute designation in 1988, the center has continually evolved, intensifying its mission to enhance cancer care through groundbreaking research and innovative therapies.

Multidisciplinary Clinics: A New Standard of Care

One of the most transformative changes in cancer treatment at the CU Cancer Center has been the establishment of multidisciplinary clinics. Before their introduction in 2012, cancer patients often faced the daunting task of navigating multiple appointments across several days, meeting various specialists who may not have coordinated their care effectively.

In a pivotal move led by Richard Schulick, MD, MBA, the center launched a comprehensive clinic model. This format allows patients to meet with several specialists on the same day, including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, and dietitians, all collaborating to build a cohesive treatment plan. Val Beck, a colorectal cancer survivor, describes her experience: "It was incredible to suddenly have all these doctors come together to give me answers. They never lied to me, giving me both hope and clarity about my treatment."

New Horizons in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Treatment

The CU Cancer Center has also played a vital role in the treatment of blood cancers, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Thanks to researchers like Craig Jordan, PhD, and Daniel Pollyea, MD, MS, a groundbreaking drug called venetoclax was approved by the FDA in 2020. This medication, combined with low-dose chemotherapy, provides a new treatment pathway for older patients with AML who may not tolerate intensive chemotherapy. Early trials produced promising results, with more than 60% of patients experiencing complete remission.

Pioneering Early Colorectal Cancer Screening

As colorectal cancer rates have risen among younger adults, the CU Cancer Center has advocated for timely screening modifications. Andrea Dwyer, program director of the Colorado Cancer Screening Program, collaborated with the American Cancer Society to lower the recommended screening age from 50 to 45. Dwyer believes this shift is critical to improving early detection and treatment outcomes. She acknowledges, “We still have a lot of work to do on awareness of the need to start screening earlier. Colorectal cancer does happen among young adults, even teenagers, and we don’t know why.”

Transforming Cancer Treatment with Cell-Based Immune Therapies

At the forefront of cancer treatment innovation, the CU Cancer Center is exploring cell-based immune therapies. For instance, tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte therapy harnesses the body's T cells to combat tumors. Similarly, the center has emerged as a leader in chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR T) therapy, where patients’ immune cells are genetically engineered to find and destroy cancer cells. CU Cancer Center researcher Terry Fry, MD, leads ongoing clinical trials for pediatric patients with relapsed leukemia, reflecting the center's commitment to advancing cancer treatment for the youngest patients.

Genetic Testing: Personalizing Lung Cancer Treatments

Researchers at the CU Cancer Center have pioneered the practice of genetic mutation testing for lung cancer treatment personalization. By identifying specific mutations, doctors can tailor treatments to the unique characteristics of each patient’s cancer. Robert Doebele, MD, PhD, emphasizes the effectiveness of molecular testing: “Routine testing has transformed how we classify lung cancer, allowing us to discern different subtypes and provide personalized treatments.” This approach leads to targeted therapies that vastly improve patients' quality of life.

In summary, as CU Cancer Center celebrates its four decades of impactful work, it highlights how these innovative strategies have not only enhanced treatment efficacy and accessibility but also reshaped the patient experience. The center remains a beacon of hope for cancer patients, committed to further advancements that will continue to transform cancer care and outcomes in the years to come.

For more information about the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and their groundbreaking work, visit CU Anschutz.