James M. Larner, M.D. Professor of Radiation Oncology and Medicine
Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology
Message from the Chair
There is little question ionizing radiation is a critical component in our armory against cancer. I like to think of radiation as the best targeted and most active drug available although of course radiation is a physical agent and not a molecule. Between 50-70% of all cancer patients receive radiation therapy during the course of their illness. Despite the fact we practice at Thomas Jefferson's University where all people are created equal, it is self evident that all radiation "is not created equal".
What sets the University of Virginia's Department of Radiation Oncology apart?
We have a superb and unparalleled portfolio of technology. We continually strive for technology development. Our team was among the first in the world to develop an intensity modulated helical tomotherapy radiation program and to develop a helical tomotherapy stereotactic body radiation therapy program.
Our radiation oncologists are all specialists, with acclaimed expertise in all the various organ systems.
We are a key component of the University of Virginia's National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Cancer Center which is ranked 36 in the most recent US News and World Report.
Cancer care is a team effort and we participate in 10 weekly conferences to discuss patient care with other specialists to optimize and coordinate our plan of action.
We are investigationally oriented and have a commitment to participate in clinical trials and National Institute of Health (NIH) and NCI funded programs, so we can offer our patients the latest and best therapy. This effort is representative of the mindset that delivers the best patient care available anywhere.
