Jacksonville, Florida, January 16, 2026
Governor Ron DeSantis has announced the start of the first carbon ion therapy program in the United States, set to launch at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville in 2028. This innovative treatment aims to revolutionize cancer care, utilizing advanced carbon ion beams for precision targeting of resistant tumors. Accompanying the new therapy will be a significant $233 million investment in a new oncology facility, further solidifying Florida’s role as a leader in medical advancements.
Jacksonville, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis Announces Launch of Carbon Ion Therapy Program at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Florida – Governor Ron DeSantis, accompanied by First Lady Casey DeSantis, announced the initiation of the first carbon ion therapy program in the United States at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. This groundbreaking development positions Florida as a leader in advanced cancer treatment.
Program Details
The carbon ion therapy program is set to commence in 2028, following the completion of the Duan Family Building, a 228,000-square-foot facility dedicated to integrated oncology. This facility will also house proton beam therapy, enhancing Mayo Clinic Jacksonville’s capacity to offer cutting-edge cancer treatments. The project is part of a $233 million investment in cancer care infrastructure.
Significance of Carbon Ion Therapy
Carbon ion therapy is an advanced form of radiation treatment that utilizes carbon ion beams to precisely target and destroy cancer cells. This method is particularly effective against tumors that are resistant to conventional therapies, offering new hope for patients with challenging cancers.
Background and Investment
In 2019, Mayo Clinic and Hitachi Ltd. announced plans to build the first carbon ion therapy facility in North America at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. This initiative aims to provide patients with access to innovative treatments that have shown promise in Europe and Asia. The establishment of this program is part of Florida’s broader commitment to advancing cancer research and treatment, with over $1 billion allocated to cancer research programs since 2019.
Future Outlook
The introduction of carbon ion therapy at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is expected to revolutionize cancer treatment in the United States, offering patients access to state-of-the-art therapies that have been previously unavailable in the country. This development underscores Florida’s role as a national leader in medical innovation and patient care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is carbon ion therapy?
Carbon ion therapy is an advanced form of radiation treatment that utilizes carbon ion beams to precisely target and destroy cancer cells. This method is particularly effective against tumors that are resistant to conventional therapies, offering new hope for patients with challenging cancers.
When will the carbon ion therapy program begin at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville?
The carbon ion therapy program is set to commence in 2028, following the completion of the Duan Family Building, a 228,000-square-foot facility dedicated to integrated oncology.
What is the significance of this development for cancer treatment in the United States?
The introduction of carbon ion therapy at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville is expected to revolutionize cancer treatment in the United States, offering patients access to state-of-the-art therapies that have been previously unavailable in the country. This development underscores Florida’s role as a national leader in medical innovation and patient care.
Key Features of the Carbon Ion Therapy Program at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville, Florida |
| Program Launch | 2028 |
| Facility | Duan Family Building, 228,000-square-foot integrated oncology facility |
| Investment | $233 million in cancer care infrastructure |
| Significance | First carbon ion therapy program in the United States |
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