UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

History of UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

When it was established in 1989, its cancer center became the only university-based cancer center in Orange County, which still stands today. The University of California (UC) Irvine Medical Center treats a variety of cancers, including mesothelioma. They specialize in the treatment of lung cancers and in the treatment of cancers that have spread to other areas of the body.

University of California Irvine (UCI) Health places a strong focus on detecting cancer early. They offer an array of screening tests, specifically for patients with a history of asbestos exposure, smoking and other risk factors for developing mesothelioma.

In addition to traditional treatments, UCI Health also offers many specialized treatments and therapies that aren’t available at all hospitals, such as non-surgical options. A rigid bronchoscopy, laser ablations and photodynamic therapy are options that patients may prefer if they are looking for non-invasive techniques. At any given time, there are more than 60 NCI-approved clinical trials taking place at the UC Irvine Medical Center, half of which were developed by physicians and researchers at the Chao Cancer Center. These clinical trials focus not just on treating cancer, but also on preventing it. Cancer prevention is central to Chao’s mission. In fact, the cancer center is one of six institutions chosen by the National Cancer Institutes to lead a chemoprevention consortium. The center also benefits from partnerships with the Beckman Laser Institute & Medical Clinic and the John Tu & Thomas Yuen Center for Functional Onco-Imaging, which provide the newest tools for advanced imaging. A lung cancer palliative care team is also available to ensure patients are comfortable throughout their treatment journey.

UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Specializations

• Cancer screening
• Lung cancers
• Mesothelioma
• Metastasized cancers
• Palliative care
• Photodynamic therapy

UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Accreditations

• American Nurses Credentialing Center Magnet Recognized
• Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade
• National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center
• U.S. News Best Hospitals rating
• U.S. News No. 1 Hospital in Orange County ranking

Mesothelioma Clinical Trials at UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center

Clinical trials can provide eligible mesothelioma patients with additional choices for their treatment. Information about whether trials may be available at UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center can be found below: