“The Journey to End Cancer: From Cause to Cure” exhibition launches national tour with MD Anderson as presenting sponsor

  • Innovative exhibit highlights breakthroughs and brings cancer science to life through dynamic animation, interactive games and more
  • Exhibition produced by Evergreen Exhibitions in collaboration with MD Anderson and the National Cancer Institute, part of the National Institutes of Health
  • Nationwide tour of exhibition launches at The Health Museum in Houston in March

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center is pleased to announce the national launch of an innovative new science exhibition, showcasing the groundbreaking research, technologies and promising new therapies bringing progress in the mission to end cancer.

“The Journey to End Cancer: From Cause to Cure,” presented by MD Anderson, will begin its national tour on March 7 at The Health Museum in Houston, followed by stops at multiple museums across the U.S. over five years.

The exhibition, produced in collaboration with MD Anderson and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), features 5,000 square feet of multimedia experiences, thought‑provoking science interactives, dynamic animations, stunning data visualizations and inspiring first‑person videos, all uniquely curated to engage, educate and empower visitors of all ages. Evergreen Exhibitions conceptualized, designed and produced “The Journey to End Cancer,” adding to its portfolio of traveling exhibits, which appear in more than 200 leading museums and science centers worldwide.  

“We are living through an extraordinary time in cancer research and care,” said Peter W.T. Pisters, M.D., president of MD Anderson. “Scientific discoveries are opening a world of possibilities for novel treatment approaches, as well as improvements in diagnostics and cancer prevention, all leading to better outcomes. Through the dynamic and engaging exhibit, we hope to make this complex subject more accessible to a variety of people, no matter their interest in oncology, science or medicine. Opportunities to hear directly from oncology experts and cancer survivors will provide a sense of hope to visitors, especially those affected by cancer.”

Though the overall cancer mortality rate continues to fall — declining by 34% since 1991 — diagnoses for many cancers such as breast, prostate, liver, melanoma, endometrial and pancreatic cancer are on the rise, according to the American Cancer Society. Sharing the promising results of groundbreaking research and supporting cancer prevention awareness continues to be crucial.   

The exhibition guides visitors through the full spectrum of cancer science, from how the disease begins to the future of detection and treatment. A collaborative team of specialized clinicians and subject matter experts from MD Anderson and the NCI, as well as other experts, developed the collective experience over the span of two and a half years, providing content input and review at each stage of development.

Visitors can become biological detectives, using cutting-edge tools to discover cancer in different parts of the body and learn how scientists identify early warning signs. A game of choices invites viewers to explore how everyday decisions — such as a healthy, fiber-rich diet — influence cancer risk. Jennifer Wargo, M.D., professor of Surgical Oncology and Genomic Medicine at MD Anderson, provided narration and instruction for the game that highlights the gut microbiome and preventive lifestyle choices.

Stepping into an immersive media environment that takes the visitor through a journey inside the body reveals a microscopic world of cells, mutations and emerging detection technologies, from liquid biopsies to cancer‑sniffing dogs. Another interactive experience shows how immunotherapies supercharge the immune system to defeat rogue cancer cells.

Throughout the exhibit, visitors will hear stories of strength and resilience from survivors as well as multiple MD Anderson clinicians and scientists who share personal insights into the emotional and physical realities of cancer. Those seeking a space for calm or reflection will be treated to a soothing sound‑and‑light environment that illustrates the role of integrative therapies, such as meditation and yoga, in cancer care.

Museum-goers can visit the exhibition at The Health Museum from March 7 through September 13. Following its time in Houston, “The Journey to End Cancer” will bring comprehensive, accessible cancer education to communities nationwide. Exhibition co-branded merchandise will be available at each host museum, with a portion of the proceeds supporting cancer research and treatment at MD Anderson.  

“We are proud to present ‘The Journey to End Cancer’ to the nation, and we hope visitors will come away with a greater understanding of the disease as well as inspiration to join us in our mission to end cancer,” said Tadd Pullin, executive vice president for Institutional Advancement at MD Anderson. “It is a pleasure to launch the exhibition in Houston to begin its national tour. Inviting people of all ages and backgrounds to see themselves as part of the journey to end cancer is how we continue working to achieve that goal.”