This week from ASTRO: #ASTRO26 LBAs process explained, Functional Radiation Medicine Grand Rounds
January 21, 2026
| New process for Late-breaking Abstract submissions for ASTRO 2026 |
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| ASTRO President Neha Vapiwala, MD, FASTRO, describes the new process for submitting Late-breaking abstracts for presentation at the 2026 Annual Meeting in late September. The process and timeline involves submitting abstract shells by February 24, alongside regular abstracts, to allow for more effective planning but with time until July 24 to gather results and finalize conclusions. Learn more in Dr. Vapiwala's video. |
| New Radiation and Cancer Biology Study Guide now available through ASTRO Academy |
| ASTRO is excited to announce the launch of the new and updated Radiation and Cancer Biology Study Guide 2026, a comprehensive, web-based resource designed to strengthen foundational knowledge in radiobiology. The guide includes 32 topic chapters with multiple-choice questions to promote active learning and support preparation for the ABR Radiation and Cancer Biology written exam. This dynamic tool, available for $25 for ASTRO members, is ideal for trainees and practicing clinicians seeking to enhance their understanding of the biological principles underlying radiation therapy. |
| Reminder: ASTRO seeks public comments for first guideline on RT for bladder cancer |
| ASTRO requests feedback on the draft guideline on Radiation Therapy for Bladder Cancer. Please review and submit comments through the webform by Monday, February 9. You can also access the draft guideline and webform at www.astro.org/PublicComment. |
| Register for ASTRO’s first Functional Radiation Medicine Grand Rounds |
| The first session of Functional Radiation Medicine Grand Rounds, organized by ASTRO’s new Functional Radiation Medicine Task Force, will be held on Wednesday, February 25, at 4:00 p.m., Eastern time. Join us as Jarad Martin, PhD, ChB, MB, and Peter Gorayski, BMBS, from Australia present emerging evidence on the application of low-dose radiation therapy for nonmalignant conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Plantar Fasciitis, and Ledderhose Disease. Register today for this inaugural event! |
| President’s Corner Member Spotlight – Anna Paulsson, MD |
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| ASTRO President Neha Vapiwala, MD, FASTRO, speaks with Anna Paulsson, MD, from St. Joseph Health Medical Group in Petaluma, California. Dr. Paulsson shares more about how her community practice works to support patients who live in this vast, agricultural region. Dr. Paulsson also serves as the Early Career representative on the ASTRO Board and is a leader of the Early Career committee and discusses ways for others to get involved in ASTRO as a volunteer. Watch the video. |
| Reminder! Medical Student Fellowship and Mentor Awards applications close February 12 |
| The 2026 ASTRO Medical Student Fellowship (MSF) offers medical students early exposure to radiation oncology through research opportunities, mentorship, networking and career development. Recipients receive a $6,000 package covering an eight-week summer research experience, career sessions and travel to ASTRO’s annual meeting. The application deadline is February 12. |
| U.S. members: Action needed |
| Please take action now! Urge your members of Congress to hold top executives from Medicare Advantage plans accountable during two congressional hearings this week. Take a few minutes to contact your representative through this urgent call to action. |
| Early 2026 Prior Authorization denial trends |
| ASTRO continues to monitor early 2026 prior authorization denials involving CPT 77412 and 77387-26. ASTRO has been in contact with EviCore regarding multiple denials due to documentation and with UnitedHealthcare involving image guidance. EviCore has provided guidance on proper documentation. Read What's Happening in Washington for more information. |
| Upcoming grant deadlines: January 26 |
| Deadline extended! ASTRO-BCRF Emerging Investigator Award |
| The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) and ASTRO have collaborated to offer a joint Emerging Investigator Award. The goal of this program is to foster and develop talented early career breast radiation oncology researchers. Applications are being accepted until January 26, 2026. To apply and view the detailed eligibility criteria, visit Proposal Central. |
| ASTRO and ASTRO-LUNGevity Residents/Fellows Seed Grants |
| ASTRO Seed grants will support trainees developing any area of research that has the potential to advance the radiation oncology field. Applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. residency or fellowship at the time of application. Projects related to lung cancer can also be considered for the ASTRO-LUNGevity Residents/Fellows in Radiation Oncology Seed Grant as well. Visit Proposal Central to apply for either or both opportunities. Applications are due January 26.
See more on these and our other funding opportunities at speedoflightfoundation.org. |
