The Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center at UC Irvine Medical Center provides fully integrated research, prevention, diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation programs for patients and families coping with cancer. The cancer center is the only Comprehensive Cancer Center in Orange County – the highest honor bestowed by the National Cancer Institute.

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NCI-Designated Center

We are one of only 39 National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the United States, and the only such center in Orange County.  This recognition reflects our expertise in translating leading-edge scientific findings into clinical practice, our commitment to cancer prevention research, and our community outreach and education programs.

As a university-based center, we draw on extensive resources to detect and treat cancer on all levels. Our staff includes researchers, surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, pathologists, nurses, rehabilitation therapists, pharmacists, social workers and dietitians. We believe our multidisciplinary approach to research, prevention and treatment promotes higher standards of care.

Patient-Centered Care

• We emphasize a coordinated, patient-centered approach, with most services offered within the Cancer Center. This makes it easier for our doctors to work together, and streamlines the experience for patients and families. 

Individualized Treatment Plans

For cancer treatment to be effective, we believe the treatment must be unique to each patient.

Our process starts with a comprehensive clinical evaluation using a wide range of diagnostic technologies. These may include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT scans, PET scans, endoscopy, X-rays and biopsies.

The center's cancer specialists assess the extent of the problem and identify appropriate therapies as quickly as possible. Working closely with patients and families, the team presents treatment options and encourages questions. One of our goals is to help people confront their fears and adopt a proactive attitude that encourages healing.

Clinical Trials

As a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a university-based Cancer Center, we participate in many clinical trials.  Clinical trials, also called research studies, test new treatments in people with cancer. 

Clinical trials often compare the most accepted cancer treatment (standard treatment) with a new treatment that doctors hope will be better. At the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, cancer patients now have access to new therapies years in advance of their general availability.

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