By Zeina Nahleh, M.D., Regional Vice Chief, Cancer Institute, and Division Chair, Hematology Oncology (Cleveland Clinic Florida Market)

March 16, 2026 – Cancer research has never been more urgent. Rates of young-onset colorectal cancer continue to rise, and screening recommendations across multiple cancer types are evolving in response.

For me, this work is not only professional – it’s personal. Cancer has touched my own family, a reality shared by countless families across South Florida and around the world.

The data underscores what so many of us are experiencing firsthand. For example, the American Cancer Society notes increasing incidence among adults under 50, prompting greater emphasis on symptom awareness and timely screening. Separately, updated cervical cancer guidelines now recommend initiating screening at age 25 and prioritizing primary HPV testing every five years for individuals ages 30 to 64.

Against the backdrop, researchers at Cleveland Clinic are advancing more personalized approaches to prevention. Caregivers helped develop a prediction model for younger-onset colorectal cancer, recognizing that while the standard screening age for average-risk individuals is 45, some younger adults face elevated risk.

For health systems across the world, these trends underscore a clear imperative: expand access to screening, accelerate research, and strengthen community education.

At Cleveland Clinic, efforts are focused on advancing precision, supporting clinical trials, and bringing innovative diagnostics and therapies closer to the communities we serve.

Addressing the enormous burden of cancer requires coordinated action, from researchers and clinicians to community leaders and advocates. That is why initiatives such as VeloSano – Cleveland Clinic’s global fundraising movement for cancer research – play an important role in complementing institutional investment in research.

On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Cleveland Clinic will host its inaugural event, VeloSano Florida for the Cure, at The FORT in Fort Lauderdale, bringing together caregivers, patients and members from our community, and afar, to raise funds that directly support cancer research and innovation. I invite you to join me in advancing this critical work.

The event has been reimagined as a pickleball tournament, and whether you’re brand new to the sport or a pickleball pro, it’s designed for all levels to support a great cause.

All the participant-raised funds support our mission of life-saving research across Cleveland Clinic, including in Florida. In an era when earlier diagnosis and rapid scientific advancement are essential, community engagement is both meaningful and a powerful reminder that no patient should face cancer alone.

For more information, visit: VeloSano.org.