We recommend that when you or your family member is diagnosed with mesothelioma that you be evaluated at an academic, multi-disciplinary, mesothelioma center. In order to help you become familiar with what a center can offer, we feature one center per month.
MD Anderson Cancer Center, Texas Medical Center
1515 Holcombe Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77030
1-877-632-6789
Mission- “It is our mission to ensure that patients have the best possible life after cancer, with advanced treatment techniques to preserve lung function.”
History- MD Anderson was created in 1941 as part of the University of Texas Health System. In 1971 when the National Cancer Act was passed MD Anderson was one of the three comprehensive cancer centers designated. Today it is one of 45 National Cancer Institutes (NCI) designated comprehensive cancer centers. For the past 11 years MD Anderson has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the number one cancer center.
Director- Anne S Tsao M.D.- Mesothelioma Program Director – 713-792-6363
Team- 30 Medical Oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, pathologists- all experts in their fields
Dr Anne S Tsao is the director of the program. She is a medical oncologist, has published extensively and is a noted mesothelioma expert.
Radiation Oncologist- Dr. Stephen M Hahn is the Division Head of Radiation Oncology. Dr. Hahn is the Department Chair, Department of Radiation Oncology and a Professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology. He is a very active member of the mesothelioma community, having served on the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.
Dr. David Rice is a professor and surgeon at MD Anderson. His interests are surgery, and clinical trials for mesothelioma. He has been awarded the Surgery Teaching Award, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School Department of Surgery. He also is a member of many professional groups such as the American college of Chest Physicians, American College of Surgeon Oncology Group and American Medical Association.
Research- Areas of study include:
- more precise ways to diagnose mesothelioma
- targeted radiation therapy that focuses on cancer cells while causing the least danger to healthy cells
- novel targeted agents that help your body fight the disease
Support Services– MD Anderson offers a Patient Travel Program which can help you navigate your trip to Houston. Often there are reduced rates, non-penalty airfares as well as change fee waivers. Patient Travel services also has access to airline, lodging and ground transportation discounts and rates. For more information: 713 745 2300
As you are spending time at MD Anderson there are many options to go and relax, learn and reflect between appointments. Kim’s Place is a respite for people 15-30 years of age to go and hang out enjoy video games, music computers, and pool table. Phone number if you have any questions is 713-563-3075
There are many spiritual services available. The Freeman- Dunn Chapel host all services. MD Anderson offers many services and offering these services is important to them. Phone 713-792-7184
The Learning Center offers skilled and personalized service to all visitors. If you are looking for more information about a particular subject feel free to request materials online at. Asktlc@mdanerson.org.
There are many parks that surround MD Anderson where you can just sit and soak up the fresh air or enjoy nature.
Phone 713-745-2300 or toll free 888-848-9992
MD Anderson offers a wide variety of support to patients and their families. The institution offers online support as well as support groups, social workers, and spiritual support.
Contact information for support services is 713-792-6195
To schedule an appointment call MD Anderson – Health Information Specialist 1-877-632-6789
If you have any questions, let us know.
