VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center

03/31/2026

Our recent Closing the Gap: Cancer Risk Reduction Summit in Norfolk was a powerful reminder of what happens when world-class research meets community wisdom. From live cooking demonstrations showing how to make "Smart Soul Food" to expert panels on genetics and nutrition, the day was all about empowerment.

Whether it’s adding five minutes of movement to your day, choosing plant-based proteins to lower sodium, or simply understanding your family’s medical history, small changes lead to massive impact.

03/30/2026

Think you know the facts about colorectal cancer? Watch our latest video to see if you can spot the difference between common myths and life-saving truths.

What's the new recommended screening age? Hint: it’s not 50 anymore!

We sat down with Dr. Khalid Matin, Massey’s associate director of global oncology, to get the definitive answers to the questions our community is asking.

Whether it's understanding why "45 is the new 50" or learning about the symptoms you should never ignore, this conversation is all about putting the power of prevention in your hands.

Test your knowledge and check out our Q and A! https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/2026/colorectal-cancer-awareness-month-qa-with-dr-khalid-matin/

03/28/2026

It’s easy to say 'I'll do it later'... until later becomes too late. 🕒💙

For Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, we’re bringing you a conversation that could save a life. Dr. Robert Winn and Community Clovia sit down with an incredible guest: Julianne Duvall, survivor, advocate, and Executive Director of CancerLINC.

Julianne shares her powerful journey from her own diagnosis to her work leading a Richmond non-profit that helps families navigate the legal and financial obstacles that come with cancer. Together, they break down why we have to talk about colorectal cancer without fear or judgment—and why your screening simply cannot wait.

Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, or just looking for the facts, this episode is the encouragement you need to prioritize your wellness today.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here:

"It’s easy to say 'I'll do it later'...until later becomes too late. Here is why the time for your colorectal screening is right now."Join Dr. Robert Winn (Director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center) and Community Clovia as they sit down with survivor and advocate Julianne Duvall, executiv...

03/26/2026

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and the statistics are a call to action: Colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in people under 50.

We recently sat down with Khalid Matin, MD, Massey’s associate director of global oncology, to discuss why we are seeing this shift and how Massey is innovating to meet the challenge. From pioneering the ATOMIC clinical trial to offering short-course radiation that allows some patients to avoid surgery entirely, our team is committed to bringing "tomorrow's treatment today."

The most critical takeaway? Screening saves lives. With the recommended screening age now lowered to 45 for average-risk individuals, it is more important than ever to understand your options, from the gold-standard colonoscopy to convenient stool-based tests.

Read the full Q&A to learn about the symptoms you should never ignore and how we are working to close the gap in care for high-risk populations.

🔗 Read the conversation with Dr. Matin:

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and according to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third-most commonly diagnosed form of cancer in the United States, excluding skin cancers. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S and the lead...

03/25/2026

Register today for an exclusive, in-person experience at the Gordon Ginder Innovations in Cancer Symposium on April 9! This is your chance to join nationally recognized leaders in cancer epigenetics as they share groundbreaking insights that are transforming our understanding of how cancer develops.

At Massey, we believe that the best medicine starts with the best collaborations. This symposium isn't just a series of talks, it’s a space to connect with experts, explore new scientific frontiers, and network alongside your peers who are equally passionate about improving health outcomes in our community.

Whether you are a researcher, a healthcare provider, or a community advocate, your participation helps us bridge the gap between the lab and the lives of those we serve. Don't miss this opportunity to learn and collaborate with the very best in the field.

We look forward to having you join us at the Dewey Gottwald Center!

📅 Date: April 9, 2026
📍 Location: The Dewey Gottwald Center | Richmond, VA

🖋️ Secure your spot today: https://bit.ly/3OPK05P

03/24/2026

We are thrilled to share that Dr. Monica Baskin will serve as the interim director of VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center starting later this spring.

As an expert in community outreach and a champion for health equity, Dr. Baskin has spent her career ensuring that life-saving research and prevention strategies reach the people who need them most. Since joining the Massey team in 2025, she has been a driving force in strengthening our impact across Virginia and beyond.

We look forward to her leadership as we continue to put patients first and take bold action together. 💛🖤

👇 Learn more about Dr. Baskin’s vision for Massey’s next chapter: https://bit.ly/4soEypo

03/23/2026

A heartfelt thank you to a true champion for our community. ❤️🤝

Today we share the news that our Director, Dr. Robert Winn, will be departing Massey this June for a new chapter at Fox Chase Cancer Center.

For the last six years, Dr. Winn has led with a simple but powerful belief: that every person deserves world-class cancer care, no matter who they are or where they live. From achieving Comprehensive Cancer Center status to walking the streets of our neighborhoods to talk about prevention, he has lived our mission every single day.

Dr. Winn often says it takes "One Team, One Fight" to end cancer. While he is moving on to a new "battlefield," the team he built here in Richmond is stronger than ever and ready to carry that fight forward.

Thank you, Dr. Winn, for your heart, your vision, and your friendship. You have left an indelible mark on Massey and on the lives of countless Virginians.

👇 Leave a message of thanks for Dr. Winn in the comments, and read more about his legacy here: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/2026/robert-winn-md-director-and-lipman-chair-in-oncology-at-massey-to-depart-vcu-in-june/

03/21/2026

After a massive upset on Thursday, our VCU Men’s Basketball team is officially dancing into Round 2 tonight! 🕺✨

At Massey, we know a thing or two about teamwork, grit, and a refusal to back down. Whether it’s on the hardwood, in the clinic, or the community, the spirit is what drives us.

We are sending all that energy from the MCV Campus straight to the court tonight. Let's keep the momentum going!

💛 Go Rams! Let’s shock the world again! 🖤

03/21/2026

Good morning from Norfolk! Things are kicking off at our first Closing the Gap of 2026! Follow us on Twitter (vcumassey) and Bluesky (vcumassey) for updates throughout the day!

03/20/2026

This week for we have a phytonutrient-rich pasta salad recipe for you! Phytonutrients are natural compounds found in plants, particularly in those with vibrant colors. They work as antioxidants, fighting against harmful substances called ‘free radicals’ in the body. This antioxidant effect has been shown to reduce the risk and slow the growth of certain cancers. Adding a variety of colors to a meal, like this pasta salad, is a great way to increase your phytonutrient intake!
Recipe:

3 cups cooked whole wheat pasta
1 bunch of asparagus, sauteed in olive oil
1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced
2 bell peppers, diced
¼ c fresh dill, chopped
¼ c fresh basil, chopped
½ lemon, juiced
¼ c olive oil
½ tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
1 tbsp red or white wine vinegar
2 tsp garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl and place in the refrigerator to chill. Serve alone, or add a protein source such as grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for a more balanced plate!

03/19/2026

Go Rams! 🏀🔥

Tonight, our VCU Men’s Basketball team takes the court for March Madness, and the entire VCU Massey family is behind them!

Whether it’s in the arena or in our clinics, the goal is the same: Relentless energy, unbreakable resolve, and working as ONE TEAM. We’re cheering loud from the MCV Campus to the Siegel Center. Let’s show them what Richmond is made of!

💛 Go Rams! 🖤

03/18/2026

Time is everything when fighting aggressive brain tumors like glioblastoma. Traditionally, patients have had to wait weeks after surgery to begin radiation.

Now, VCU Massey is offering a "first in market" solution that changes the game: Tile-based brachytherapy.

During surgery to remove a tumor, our experts can now place small, radiation-infused tiles directly into the area. This means treatment starts immediately, targeting any remaining cancer cells before they have a chance to regrow.

👇 Learn more about how we’re putting patients first with new technology: https://www.masseycancercenter.org/news/2026/vcu-massey-comprehensive-cancer-center-introduces-first-in-market-brachytherapy-brain-tumor-surgery/