Casey DeSantis Leads the Charge for Advanced Cancer Treatment in Florida
Jacksonville, FL – January 15, 2026 – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced a landmark achievement in cancer care: the launch of the nation’s first carbon ion therapy program. The program will be based at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, positioning Florida at the forefront of innovative cancer treatment.
Governor DeSantis highlighted the significance of this advancement, stating, “This is probably considered the most advanced form of radiation treatment anywhere in the world that has been used, I think very effectively, in Japan.” This cutting-edge therapy offers a targeted approach to treating aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers, particularly those resistant to traditional radiation methods.
A Personal Commitment: Casey DeSantis’s Advocacy
The initiative holds particular resonance given First Lady Casey DeSantis’s personal journey as a cancer survivor. She passionately emphasized the importance of investing in cancer research and treatment options, stating, “Have courage and stay strong because you can beat it. And look at what the state of Florida is doing to help provide options that are nowhere else in the Western Hemisphere, but right here at the Mayo Clinic and right here in Florida.” Her advocacy underscores a deep commitment to providing hope and advanced care to cancer patients.
This new program represents a substantial investment in cancer initiatives across the state, reflecting a broader effort to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected by the disease. The state’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by bringing a treatment previously primarily available in Japan to American soil.
What is Carbon Ion Therapy?
Carbon ion therapy is a highly precise form of radiation therapy that uses carbon ions to target tumors. Unlike traditional radiation, carbon ions can deliver a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This makes it particularly effective for treating tumors located near critical organs or in hard-to-reach areas.
Timeline and Future Outlook
Officials anticipate that the first patients will begin receiving carbon ion therapy in early 2027. This program is expected to attract patients from across the country and internationally, solidifying Florida’s position as a leading destination for advanced cancer care. The Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is uniquely positioned to deliver this complex therapy, leveraging its expertise and state-of-the-art facilities.
For more information on cancer treatment options and research, please visit the National Cancer Institute.
Source: WJXT News4JAX
