New research on patient-centered treatment of head and neck cancers will be presented at the 2026 Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancers Symposium, taking place in Palm Desert, California and online starting today. Media registration is available via our press kit, and general registration is available via the symposium website.

Four high-impact studies recommended by symposium leadership for media are noted below. Experts are available to provide outside commentary and perspective on these and other studies at the meeting. Abstracts and program details are available in the conference planner.

Abstract 2: Amivantamab plus pembrolizumab in previously untreated recurrent/metastatic head & neck squamous cell cancer: Results from the phase 1b/2 OrigAMI-4 study

• Presenter: Ranee Mehra, MD, University of Maryland Cancer Center, Baltimore
• Presentation: Thursday, February 19, 1:40 p.m., Pacific time, Plenary Session I

Abstract 3: Ficerafusp alfa 2000 mg Q2W plus pembrolizumab as first-line (1L) treatment for HPV-negative recurrent or metastatic (R/M) head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)

• Presenter: Dan Zandberg, MD, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh
• Presentation: Thursday, February 19, 1:50 p.m., Pacific time, Plenary Session I

Abstract 7: Surgical outcomes in KEYNOTE-689: Neoadjuvant and adjuvant pembrolizumab (pembro) in resectable locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA HNSCC)

• Presenter: Richard Bell, MD, Providence Cancer Institute Frantz Head and Neck Clinic, Portland
• Presentation: Friday, February 20, 11:00 a.m., Pacific time, Plenary Session II

Abstract 10: The Quarterback de-escalation trials: Sequential studies of induction chemotherapy and reduced dose chemoradiation for HPV positive oropharynx cancer

• Presenter: Michael Wotman, MD, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston
• Presentation: Friday, February 20, 11:30 a.m., Pacific time, Plenary Session II

The Multidisciplinary Head and Neck Cancers Symposium is cosponsored by the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the American Head & Neck Society (AHNS) and the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC). The symposium features interactive and case-based discussions that address new multidisciplinary therapies, guidelines, supportive care and disparities in the treatment of head and neck cancer. Highlighted sessions include plenaries featuring clinical trial reports and research from medical, surgical and radiation oncologists; keynote discussions on neoadjuvant immunotherapy and elective nodal treatment; patient perspectives from several survivors of head and neck cancer; and panels on topics such as emerging technologies to advance patient care, new therapies for recurrent cancers and strategies to improve survivorship care for patients.

ABOUT ASTRO
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is the world’s largest professional society dedicated to advancing radiation oncology, with 10,000 members including physicians, nurses, physicists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists and other professionals who work to improve patient outcomes through clinical care, research, education and policy advocacy. Radiation therapy is integral to 40% of cancer cures worldwide, and more than one million Americans receive radiation treatments for their cancer each year. For information on radiation therapy, visit Speed of Light - The ASTRO Foundation. To learn more about ASTRO, visit our website and media center and connect with us on social media.