University of Arizona Cancer Center

About the University of Arizona Cancer Center

The University of Arizona Cancer Center was founded in 1976 as a part of The University of Arizona’s College of Medicine in Tucson, Arizona. Shortly after its founding, it received its first National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation, which classified the facility as a cancer research and treatment center.

The University Of Arizona Cancer Center has come a long way since its establishment in the 1970s. The treatment center is currently one of only 51 NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers nationwide.

With this prestigious NCI status, the University Of Arizona Cancer Center’s primary responsibility is conducting research. This research is focused on studying and developing innovative prevention and treatment methods to reduce the burden and mortality of varying forms of cancer — including mesothelioma.

With access to significant financial resources, specialized treatment equipment, and research teams, the University Of Arizona Cancer Center has emerged as a leading cancer center. The facility is best known for combining research results with its ongoing laboratory, clinical, and population-based studies. This allows the Center to deliver maximal benefits to cancer patients.

An extensive focus on research and clinical trials, paired with support from a long list of public and private organizations, has enabled the University Of Arizona Cancer Center to deliver the highest quality of care to patients diagnosed with mesothelioma.

By researching available options, mesothelioma patients can seek treatment at one of the nation’s top cancer treatment centers. Get started by requesting our Free Mesothelioma Guide.

University of Arizona Cancer Center Overview and Locations

Before deciding on a treatment facility, patients should know that the University Of Arizona Cancer Center is:

• The only treatment facility headquartered in Arizona with the NCI designation of a Comprehensive Cancer Center
• A world leader in research on breast, ovarian, prostate, and gastrointestinal cancers
• Grounded in three scientific research programs—cancer biology, prevention and control, and translational oncology
• A large and capable cancer center with over 70 research labs and more than 150 world-renowned doctors and scientists
• Engaged in regular cancer-related education and outreach events in the community

The University of Arizona Cancer Center has 4 clinical care and research locations in Arizona:

• University of Arizona Cancer Center – North Campus: 3838 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ
• University of Arizona Cancer Center – Orange Grove Campus: 1891 W. Orange Grove Road, Tucson, AZ
• University of Arizona Cancer Center – Prevention Clinic: 1430 E. Ft. Lowell Road, Suites 301-304, Tucson, AZ
• University of Arizona Cancer Center – Research and Administration at Main Campus: 1515 N. Campbell Avenue, Tucson, AZ

Patient Experience at the University of Arizona Cancer Center

As a Comprehensive Cancer Center, the University of Arizona Cancer Center ensures that patients and their families are provided the best possible care.

“This designation, the NCI’s highest, is reserved for centers focusing on patient care, research, prevention, education, outreach, and training.”
– University of Arizona Cancer Center

The entire staff at the cancer treatment center prioritizes patient recovery in a healing environment. Patients can expect to interact with multiple specialists during a single visit to the University of Arizona Cancer Center. These specialists will exchange information, discuss care options, and present a detailed treatment plan.

The ideal treatment is different for each mesothelioma patient. Our team of advocates can help you determine which options may be best for you: call (866) 608-8933 to start the conversation.

Mesothelioma Treatment at the University of Arizona Cancer Center

Since mesothelioma is a rare and complex condition, choosing a hospital with experience treating the disease is essential.

The University of Arizona Cancer Center’s Lung Cancer Program has multi-specialist care teams dedicated to preventing, diagnosing, and treating various forms of lung cancer, including pleural mesothelioma.

Multidisciplinary patient-care teams may include:

• Hematological oncologists
• Medical oncologists
• Nurse coordinators
• Nurse practitioners
• Nutritionists
• Patient advocates
• Psychiatrists
• Radiation oncologists
• Research specialists
• Social workers
• Surgical oncologists

The Lung Cancer Clinical Research team takes a customized approach to patient care, offering wide-ranging services, including evaluating abnormal chest imaging.

The team aims to develop the most innovative, minimally invasive, and effective treatment methods. These efforts can be seen through participation in cutting-edge clinical trials and ongoing laboratory research.

Mesothelioma Doctors at the University of Arizona Cancer Center

The Lung Cancer Program at the University of Arizona Cancer Center consists of doctors, oncologists, and support staff. Dr. Linda Garland serves as its Director of Thoracic Oncology.

Dr. Garland has designed and led various clinical trials that have tested emerging treatments for advanced mesothelioma. She has also collaborated with scientists to develop innovative ways of preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer through biomarkers, substances attached to cancerous cells.

Chemotherapy can be effective for some patients but is associated with limited survival rates in mesothelioma and lung cancer patients. For this reason, Dr. Garland’s research has focused on studying new therapeutic methods. The goal is to develop individualistic and effective treatment plans for each patient diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Thankfully, breakthroughs in cancer treatment are happening across the country. However, this can make finding the best mesothelioma doctor feel overwhelming.

Get personalized help with our free mesothelioma specialist match today.

University of Arizona Cancer Center Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Treatment for mesothelioma will vary between patients depending on cancer stage, tumor location, and cell type.

If you receive treatment at the University Of Arizona Cancer Center, the following therapy options may be offered:

• Chemotherapy: Specialized oncologists may prescribe chemotherapy drugs to treat mesothelioma. Standard therapies include Alimta, cisplatin, and gemcitabine, but the facility is engaged in ongoing clinical trials to test the effectiveness of new chemotherapy agents.
• Immunotherapy: Some patients are treated with drugs that target the proteins needed to help boost the immune system’s response against cancer cells.
• Radiation: The Center’s radiation oncologists have state-of-the-art equipment to deliver the most effective radiation therapy for mesothelioma patients.

University of Arizona Cancer Center Clinical Trials and Research

The University Of Arizona Cancer Center is Arizona’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. With this prestigious status, the facility is engaged in cutting-edge research and clinical trials to prevent and find a cure for various forms of cancer, including mesothelioma.

In 2019, the Center was awarded $8.6 million by NCI to establish the University of Arizona Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Network. Currently, the University Of Arizona Cancer Center is conducting over 200 clinical trials to find new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat multiple types of cancer.

Facing a mesothelioma diagnosis is life-changing and can feel overwhelming. While clinical trials can provide access to breakthrough mesothelioma treatments, they are not a great fit for every patient.  Your doctor can help guide you toward a treatment plan that best suits you and your family. We have compiled a free checklist of useful questions to ask to help start the conversation with your doctor.

Insurance Information

Accepted insurance plans vary between treatment locations.

We encourage you to contact the administrative staff and your insurance provider to verify coverage.

Seeking Treatment at the University of Arizona Cancer Center

Extensive research and participation in hundreds of clinical trials have allowed the University Of Arizona Cancer Center to invest in technologically advanced equipment and treatment methods.

These factors have attracted top medical professionals, researchers, and scientists nationwide. This helps mesothelioma patients receive the most advanced care.

If you have any questions or want assistance finding the best mesothelioma cancer treatment centers, contact our Patient Advocates now. They are available 24/7 to help.