The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center announced in a Feb. 19 press release it would partner with Texas Children’s Hospital to fight childhood cancer in a new joint venture launching in 2026. Among the new endeavors will be the establishment of pediatric oncology education programs for those looking to enter the treatment field.

The partnership was approved by the University of Texas System Board of Regents at the Feb. 19 board meeting.

MD Anderson is the nation’s highest rated cancer center and Texas Children’s, the nation’s largest pediatric system, has one of the top pediatric cancer programs, according to U.S. News and World Report. Through the partnership, the medical providers plan to increase clinical trials for pediatric cancer patients while expanding treatment facilities.

“This groundbreaking collaboration between two proven leaders in pediatric and cancer care marks the beginning of a new era in the fight against childhood cancer,” Debra Sukin, president and CEO of Texas Children’s, said in the press release. “The combined force of our two iconic programs will be led with the nation’s top talent.”

According to the press release, the partnership’s care team will be made up of more than 300 pediatric oncology specialists, clinicians and researchers from the two providers. It also noted that Texas has the second highest number of pediatric cancer cases in America. The joint pursuit intends to reduce that number, hoping to eradicate pediatric cancer entirely.

“The scope and scale of our combined effort will build the world’s preeminent pediatric cancer center,” Peter Pisters, president of MD Anderson, said in the press release. “MD Anderson and Texas Children’s offer unique strengths that when brought together will accelerate improved outcomes for patients in Texas and around the world.”