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CARG at ASCO 2026

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CARG Spotlight
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CARG Highlights Impact at the ASCO 2026 Annual Conference
CARG stood prominently at this year’s ASCO Annual Conference, aligned with the inspiring theme, “The Science and Practice of Translation: Improving Cancer Outcomes Worldwide.” From May 29 through June 2, the CARG community brought forward bold ideas, breakthrough science, and a shared vision for global impact.
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Through award-winning research, compelling presentations, and influential leadership across key sessions, CARG members demonstrated how innovation can be translated into meaningful improvements in care for older adults with cancer. Our presence reflected not only scientific excellence, but also a deep commitment to equity, collaboration, and patient-centered progress – helping to shape the future of geriatric oncology on a global stage.
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CARG’s influence at ASCO extends beyond the Annual Meeting through its deep and ongoing collaboration with the Society in advancing geriatric oncology research and clinical care. CARG leaders have played a key role in shaping the ASCO Geriatric Oncology Guideline Update, including contributions to the development of the Practical Geriatric Assessment (PGA), an evidence-based tool designed to support clinicians in identifying and addressing age-related vulnerabilities in older adults with cancer. In parallel, active engagement in the ASCO Geriatric Oncology Community of Practice fosters continued collaboration across education, research, and implementation – strengthening efforts to translate scientific innovation into meaningful improvements in care for older adults worldwide.
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Celebrating CARG Excellence: Awards and Honors
Cancer care for older adults presents unique and complex challenges, and CARG continues to lead the way in addressing them. Through innovative research, clinical leadership, and advocacy, CARG members are advancing the field of geriatric oncology in transformative ways.
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In collaboration with the ASCO Geriatric Oncology Community of Practice, CARG hosted a celebratory event honoring members recognized with prestigious ASCO awards:
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  • Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis MD, PhD, FASCO – 2026 ASCO B.J. Kennedy Award for Geriatric Oncology
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    This award recognizes an ASCO member who has made outstanding contributions to the research, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer in older adults, with a strong commitment to mentorship and education.
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    Dr. Soto is Associate Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Colorado and Associate Director for Global Oncology. His work bridges geriatric and global oncology, with a focus on improving care in resource-limited settings. A leader in international collaboration, he has published over 220 peer-reviewed articles and chaired the 2025 ASCO global guideline for geriatric oncology.
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    Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis MD, PhD, FASCO (center) celebrating his well-deserved award with Tanya Wildes, MD, MSCI (left) and Cristiane Bergerot, PhD, FASCO (right)
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  • Beverly Canin – 2026 Patient Advocate Award
    This award honors individuals whose advocacy efforts have significantly influenced cancer care, policy, and public awareness.
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    Since her breast cancer diagnosis in 2000, Ms. Canin has dedicated more than two decades to patient advocacy, including leadership roles within ASCO, SIOG, and CARG. She co-created and chaired the SCOREboard, a vital platform elevating patient and caregiver perspectives in oncology research, and continues to champion the integration of patient voices into clinical care.
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    William Dale, MD, PhD, FASCO with Beverly Canin
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  • Harvey Jay Cohen, MD – Jamie Von Roenn Excellence in Teaching and Mentorship Award
    This award recognizes exceptional mentors whose leadership has shaped the next generation of oncology professionals.
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    Dr. Cohen, Professor of Medicine at Duke University, has dedicated his career to advancing geriatric oncology and mentoring future leaders. With more than 500 publications and numerous leadership roles, his influence continues to shape both scientific discovery and clinical practice.

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Research Highlights and Presentations
CARG members also enriched the scientific program through a wide range of presentations, discussions, and session leadership. More than a dozen CARG members presented at the meeting; eight served as abstract discussants; and five chaired sessions, including those focused on strategies for academic and community synergy in immunotherapy toxicity care, symptom science and palliative care, quality care and health services research, and current and future directions in immunotherapies for myeloma. More than 20 members also showcased their work through engaging and informative posters, on topics ranging from “Improving Care for Older Adults with Cancer: Research to Practice” to “Treatment Preferences Between Survival and Quality of Life and Their Association with Clinical Outcomes in Older Adults with Advanced Cancer.”

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More than 30 CARG members also presented posters showcasing cutting-edge research, including projects such as:
  • GRACE: A conversational AI platform for geriatric oncology risk and capability evaluation
  • Use of parsimonious Fitbit step metrics to improve frailty classification in adults ≥50 with cancer in NIH All of Us
In addition, Dr. Melody Schiaffino was selected as a Featured Voice, providing expert commentary during the Science & Education session and sharing insights on how emerging data can inform clinical practice.
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Last Updated on July 9, 2026