First Multidisciplinary Event Showcases Advances in Therapeutic Radiopharmaceuticals
ASTRO’s first Multidisciplinary Radiopharmaceutical Therapy (RPT) Symposium, held February 17-18, 2026, in Palm Desert, California, featured research demonstrating the exponential growth of this therapeutic modality. A meta-analysis presented at the event showed longer progression-free survival with Lu-177 PSMA-617, while a national review documented a twenty-fold rise in Medicare RPT claims over the past decade.
Research Highlights
Under the theme “From Start-Up to State-of-the-Art: A Collaborative Journey,” the symposium featured studies spanning established RPT uses and early signals for new indications. Presentations also addressed the infrastructure clinics need to safely offer these treatments as they move into routine care.
The meta-analysis on Lu-177 PSMA-617, one of the most promising radiopharmaceuticals for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, reinforced efficacy data from the VISION and TheraP trials. Results showed consistent progression-free survival benefit, consolidating this therapy as a validated option for selected patients.
The Medicare claims review revealed an impressive growth trajectory: a twenty-fold increase over the past decade reflects both new radiopharmaceutical approvals and expansion of capable treatment centers. This is particularly relevant for radiotherapy service managers evaluating new technology adoption.
Clinical Implementation and Quality Programs
Several abstracts shared guidance for establishing high-quality RPT programs, including experiences from community-based settings and large academic health systems. Studies described clinical pathways and multidisciplinary care models integrating radiation oncology, nuclear medicine, and other specialties. Integration with DICOM-based imaging systems is essential for proper patient selection and follow-up.
Workforce Development and Training Centers
ASTRO announced national training centers to credential physicians in radiopharmaceutical administration, patient selection, dosimetry, and regulatory compliance. Keynote addresses from Dr. Stephen M. Hahn, former FDA Commissioner, and Dr. Johannes Czernin of UCLA highlighted translational and regulatory complexities shaping the RPT landscape.
Future Perspectives
The symposium signals that investing in RPT infrastructure and training is aligned with global oncology trends. As new therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals receive approval and isotope production capacity expands, more centers worldwide are expected to incorporate this modality into their treatment offerings.
