The founder and lead surgeon of the Las Colinas Cancer Center talks about the concerted effort.

Irving, TX – Earlier this year, the White House set researchers, clinicians and organizations across the country on a mission to find a cure for cancer. Called the Cancer Moonshot, the initiative is designed to create a focused and funded effort to advance research by a decade in half the time. While still very much in its early phases, some believe this initiative may very well serve as a tipping point in the battle against this deadly disease.

“By opening the channels of communication among researchers and backing research with funding, the initiative may very well attain its goals,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder and lead surgeon at the Las Colinas Cancer Center. “While it remains unclear if the ultimate goal – finding a cure – will be attained, people can anticipate major advancements coming on the cancer front as a result of the moonshot.”

The moonshot features a number of prongs that make it different than any other research push to date. In addition to more than $1 billion in funding, the program is being driven by a Cancer Moonshot Task Force. This task force involves representation from a variety of stakeholders in the governmental, scientific and medical communities, essentially bringing them all together to ensure information is shared, goals are set and collaboration helps produce tangible results.

“While still very much in its infancy, the moonshot is a tremendously exciting and encouraging undertaking,” says Dr. Echt. “It will be fascinating to watch new advancements and developments come out of the effort.”

An estimated 1.7 million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year. About 600,000 die from cancer-related causes. The moonshot is meant to reduce these numbers not only through scientific advancements, but also by raising awareness and promoting preventative measures.

“By going after cancer on all fronts, the moonshot is taking a holistic approach to battling the disease,” says Dr. Echt. “With perseverance, it may very well put researchers on the road to finding a cure.”

About Las Colinas Cancer Center
Las Colinas Cancer Center, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, is committed to providing the personalized, compassionate treatment that can make all the difference in cancer care. Our state-of-the-art facility, located in North Texas, offers those battling cancer and blood disorders a safe haven where they can find professional care from some of the nation’s most experienced oncology specialists in a supportive, caring environment with an integrated approach to treatment.