-Use research results to educate cancer patients and their families about radiation therapy treatment options.

Of ASTRO's initial investment of $5 million, $1 million will be used for an endowment and $1 million for initial seed funding. The remaining $3 million will be used as a matching challenge grant to all ASTRO members with the goal of raising an additional $5 million. In ROI's first phase, radiation oncologists will be asked to support the ROI. ASTRO's industry partners will be invited to contribute as well.

"ASTRO turns 50 this year. In our first half century, radiation therapy has made remarkable strides, and has become a mainstay in the treatment of cancer. Indeed, the majority of cancer patients receive radiation therapy, either as their definitive treatment, or along with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy," said Louis B. Harrison, ASTRO Chair. "With the ROI, we begin our journey into the next 50 years, and our mission to gather critical data, fund important research and educational initiatives in radiation oncology, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that cancer patients have access to the life-saving treatments required to maximize cure, and optimize quality of life."
For more information on the Radiation Oncology Institute, visit www.roinstitute.org. Learn more about ASTRO at www.astro.org. To find out more about radiation therapy treatments, visit www.rtanswers.org.

ASTRO is the largest radiation oncology society in the world, with more than 9,000 members who specialize in treating patients with radiation therapies. As the leading organization in radiation oncology, biology and physics, the Society is dedicated to improving patient care through education, clinical practice, and the advancement of science and advocacy.

The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, Inc., 8280 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Suite 500, Fairfax, VA 22031, phone 703-502-1550, fax 703-502-7852, www.astro.org

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