About the
exhibition

Visitors receive an eye-opening introduction to the amazing work their cells do to keep them healthy and active, and learn how sometimes changes can build up in cells and cause them to multiply out of control, resulting in cancer. Stunning visuals then transport visitors to the frontiers of cancer science today, inspiring hope in the rapid progress taking place.

A pattern-copying game shows how some of the DNA changes that lead to cancer are the result of “copy and paste” errors—simple mistakes—that happen when cells replicate.

Some cancer-causing gene variants happen by chance, while others have known causes. A series of infographics highlight various known causes.

A 90-second animated “cartoon” tells the story of a healthy little cell that, due to no fault of its own, develops changes to its DNA “instruction book,” causing it to stop obeying healthy cell rules and making it multiply out of control, leading to cancer.

A flip-panel interactive that sparks curiosity through surprising facts about what cancer is, who gets it (even dinosaurs did!) and how cancer cells are a bit like “zombies” because they refuse to die a normal cell death.

Can anyone get cancer? What about animals? This expansive infographic uses icons and text to explore who can be affected by the disease. By studying cancer patterns in ourselves and other living creatures, we can gain insights into how it works and how we can help detect, treat, and prevent it.

This touch-screen experience turns visitors into “detectives,” applying screening and evaluation tools to uncover or rule out cancers in different parts of the body. The experience highlights the importance of routine screenings and paying attention to the body if out of the ordinary symptoms occur.

What is the future of cancer detection? This infographic highlights exciting, and unusual, developments. While some aren’t ready to be introduced, others are getting close.

In this simulation, visitors perform a virtual colonoscopy to find and remove polyps before they turn into cancer; an instance where early detection becomes prevention!

A large infographic uses simple stats and colorful graphics to reveal how early detection can lead to high survival rates for common cancers, emphasizing the importance of access for all.

Through arresting infographics, visitors learn the difference it makes when you find cancer early. Simple visuals illustrate the stages of cancer that allow doctors, survivors, and loved ones to determine the best treatment option.

The first of three story pods features video testimonials about the moment of diagnosis, from survivor and care provider perspectives. Everyone’s cancer is different, and so is their diagnosis story.

A playful game introduces the promise of immunotherapy, as visitors “supercharge” T cells to better seek and destroy “rogue cells” or (cancer cells).

A time-travel adventure takes visitors through cancer treatment advances from ancient times to the ever-improving “five pillars”: surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

A soothing sound-and-light experience highlights the role of science-backed complementary therapies like meditation, exercise and others, alongside traditional medical treatments.

Caring for the whole self helps survivors gain resilience against cancer. Practices like yoga, acupuncture, and eating healthy eating are backed by science to support cancer treatment. Infographics help explain how these therapies strengthen mind and body, empowering survivors to more effectively manage the disease.

Every cancer journey is unique, and each is supported by a team of dedicated heroes. Because, while cancer is deeply personal, it is never a solo journey. This story pod shares powerful video stories from survivors, their families, and the caregivers who serve them. Each story highlights the remarkable collaboration at play and shows a variety of heroes who play a role.

Clinical trials are essential to saving lives.  Having more people—and greater diversity—helps to ensure treatments are effective for everyone. This display highlights how clinical trials work and celebrates the patients who volunteer for them.

Visitors play a game of choices from childhood to age 101, where everyday actions can help lower one’s lifetime cancer risk. Along the way, they encounter “chance” cards, highlighting how some risk factors like inherited cancer risk or living in a “health care desert” can be out of our control.

In this interactive game, visitors design fiber-rich meals to support helpful gut microbes, which can boost health, make cancer treatments more effective and potentially lower risk.

This eye-catching infographic display spotlights how fiber works to keep your colon running smoothly and support a healthy gut microbiome—the key to a strong immune system.

A large infographic presents compelling data highlighting some top ways to lower cancer risk, from avoiding tobacco and alcohol to staying physically active.

This intimate story pod offers a heartfelt look at life after cancer. Here, you meet survivors and caregivers who share their personal stories about navigating their “new normal.” Personal accounts capture the range of emotions and experiences that come with surviving cancer or caring for someone through treatment.

An immersive wall projection invites visitors to assemble a puzzle together to feel the strength of teamwork.

The movement to end cancer is happening all around the globe—and in space! Supported by quick facts and helpful snapshots, visitors explore how major cancer centers around the world are innovating and fighting the disease.

This display underscores how important it is for everyone to have access to the resources needed to stay healthy. Social determinants of health–including income, education, and healthcare—can impact the risk of cancer. For those in need, community programs provide healthy food, quality care, and safe spaces.

The exhibition culminates in an empowering finale, an interactive UT MD Anderson “Cancer Strikethrough” wall, where visitors can share messages or cheer on loved ones. In addition, a resource kiosk provides curated information and trusted resources from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, consistently ranked the top cancer center in the world.

Seeking more resources? Visitors are encouraged to collect some extra information to continue the learning journey. Simply scan the QR code to access trusted online resources curated by The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, consistently ranked the top cancer center in the world.