Onc Now
In this episode of Onc Now, Kevin Harrington discusses the evolving landscape of head and neck cancer treatment, from the transformative impact of immunotherapy to the promise of oncolytic viruses. He reflects on the challenges that defined a decade of limited progress, the integration of radiotherapy and systemic therapies, and the importance of translating innovative science into clinical benefit. With insights into salivary gland cancers, combination strategies, and advice for the next generation of oncologists, this episode offers a comprehensive look at one of oncology’s most rapidly advancing fields.
Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | Youtube (52 mins)
Speaker bio:

Kevin Harrington is Professor of biological cancer therapies at the Institute of Cancer Research and a consultant clinical oncologist at the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, UK. He is joint head of the Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging and is internationally recognised for his expertise in the management of head and neck cancers. Within the Institute of Cancer Research, Harrington leads the targeted therapy team as the head of Division of Radiotherapy and Imaging.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:10 – Specialisation in head and neck cancers
03:39 – Biggest challenges
06:30 – Impact of radiotherapy
11:19 – Role of systemic therapy
16:13 – Immunotherapy
21:10 – Salivary gland cancers
28:34 – Viruses as anti-cancer agents
33:22 – Translating innovative science
38:00 – Pairing viruses for certain cancers
41:47 – Advice to young oncologists
44:29 – Important breakthroughs
47:21 – Three magic wishes
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this episode belong to the speakers and do not necessarily represent the opinions of EMJ.




