Looking Back, Looking Forward

In this Town Hall, Dr. Naomi Haas, University of Pennsylvania, looked back at key advances and lessons from 2025. Dr. Daniel George, Duke University, looked forward at emerging science, trials, and practice-changing questions for 2026.

Watch the Webinar video below

This event has already taken place, but you can watch the full video below, including both doctors’ presentations and the patient/caregiver Q & A that followed.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Monty Pal | KidneyCAN Town Hall | Latest in Kidney Cancer Research 2025

Dr. Daniel J. George, MD

Duke Cancer Center
Medical Oncologist, Director of Genitourinary Oncology

Duke University School of Medicine
Professor in Urology and Professor in Surgery

Dr. Daniel J. George, MD, is a distinguished Medical Oncologist at Duke University, specializing in the comprehensive care of patients with urologic cancers, with a primary focus on prostate, kidney, bladder, and testicular cancer. Dr. George prioritizes providing a profound understanding of each patient’s case and presenting viable options, instilling knowledge as a source of reassurance and empowerment.

As the leader of a robust clinical research team at Duke, Dr. George has significantly contributed to advancing therapeutic approaches and enhancing care outcomes for patients with urologic cancers. His research portfolio spans interventional trials involving novel therapies, diagnostic tests, and markers delving into cancer biology, response, and overall outcomes. Driven by a keen interest in immuno-oncology agents and targeted therapies, his work embodies a commitment to pioneering advancements in cancer treatment.

Dr. George’s research extends beyond conventional boundaries, exploring lifestyle interventions and support mechanisms to improve the overall cancer experience for patients. His team’s dedication is evident in the inclusion of diverse professionals fostering a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. With a notable proportion of African American patients under his care, Dr. George places a particular emphasis on understanding the unique aspects of their diseases and strives to enhance care delivery for this population.

Dr. George distinguishes himself through his personal approach, fostering trust with patients through genuine care and unwavering expertise. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation underscores his commitment to transforming the landscape of urologic cancer care, making him an invaluable asset to both Duke University and the broader medical community.

Dr. Laurence Albiges | KidneyCAN Town Hall | Latest Kidney Cancer Research 025

Naomi Haas, M.D.

Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
Director, Prostate and Kidney Cancer Program

University of Pennsylvania
Professor of Medicine

Dr. Naomi Haas, MD, stands at the forefront of kidney and prostate cancer clinical research as the Director of Kidney and Prostate Cancer Clinical Research at Penn Medicine and an Associate Professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Her international reputation as an expert in the design and execution of adjuvant clinical trials for kidney cancer, coupled with her national prominence in prostate and kidney cancer therapeutics, underscores her significant contributions to advancing the field.

In her role as the institutional principal investigator for the HCRN study GU16-260, Dr. Haas leads groundbreaking research on the front line therapy with nivolumab and salvage nivolumab + ipilimumab in patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma. Her involvement in GU16-257, focused on neoadjuvant gemcitabine, cisplatin, plus nivolumab in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer with selective bladder sparing, further showcases her commitment to advancing innovative treatment approaches.

Dr. Haas’ research interests encompass a spectrum of early-phase cancer clinical trials, with a primary focus on kidney and prostate cancer. Her work extends to the study of emerging treatment modalities, including CAR T-Cell therapy, immune checkpoint inhibition, angiogenesis, and epigenetics. Notably, her early exposure to retrotransposons, a unique genetic component, during her time in a basic science lab at Fox Chase Cancer Center adds a distinctive dimension to her research expertise. Dr. Haas adopts a multifaceted approach, exploring diverse treatment avenues and incorporating cutting-edge technologies. Her involvement in investigating retrotransposons showcases a commitment to delving into genetic intricacies, highlighting her dedication to understanding cancer at both molecular and clinical levels.

Dr. Haas’ role as the Director of Kidney and Prostate Cancer Clinical Research at Penn Medicine positions her as a driving force in shaping the institution’s research landscape. Her leadership fosters a dynamic environment where innovative ideas flourish, contributing to the institution’s reputation as a hub of groundbreaking research and patient care. Dr. Haas’ tireless efforts in advancing the understanding and treatment of kidney and prostate cancers solidify her as a leader in the field, with a lasting impact on both Penn Medicine and the broader realm of oncology.

An informed patient is an empowered patient.

We at KidneyCAN know how challenging it can be to keep up with research developments and how they could impact your treatment options. We hope the ideas presented in our Town Hall help you as you work with your doctor to manage your care for kidney cancer.

If you’re looking to connect with more people who share your challenges and can offer support, check out our Smart Patients forum.

This event supported by:

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Advocacy

Research

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