Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli

About Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli

Dr. Christopher Azzoli is a board-certified medical oncologist with more than 20 years of experience treating pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other thoracic cancers. Medical oncologists oversee many aspects of mesothelioma treatment and may recommend that patients work with other specialists to receive comprehensive care.

As Director of Thoracic Oncology at the Brown University Health Cancer Institute, Dr. Azzoli believes treatment should be personalized based on each patient’s diagnosis, overall health, and treatment goals.

Use our Free Doctor Match today to connect with Dr. Azzoli and other mesothelioma specialists for treatment.

What Health Conditions Does Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli Treat?

Dr. Azzoli specializes in treating pleural mesothelioma, which develops in the lung lining anywhere from 10 to 50 years after asbestos exposure.

His other primary areas of expertise include:

• Esophageal cancer
• Lung cancer
• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Other thoracic cancers

He also treats many patients with complex cancers that require multidisciplinary treatment plans combining systemic therapies with surgery or radiation therapy.

Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli’s Mesothelioma Treatment Approach

Dr. Christopher Azzoli, MD, develops individualized treatment plans that consider the patient’s diagnosis, overall health, and long-term treatment goals.

Mesothelioma treatment options with Dr. Azzoli may include:

• Chemotherapy: Helps destroy rapidly growing cancer cells throughout the body
• Clinical trials: Provide access to emerging treatments that may improve outcomes
• Immunotherapy: Helps the immune system recognize and attack mesothelioma cells
• Targeted therapies: May benefit patients whose tumors contain specific genetic changes

Dr. Azzoli works closely with patients and their families to explain available options and help them make informed decisions throughout treatment.

Download our Free Doctor Questions Checklist to prepare for your appointment and discuss your mesothelioma treatment options.

Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli’s Medical Background

Dr. Azzoli has dedicated his career to advancing thoracic oncology and improving patient outcomes through patient care, research, and national leadership. His work has also helped shape national treatment recommendations for lung cancer and other complex cancers through his involvement with the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO).

He serves as Director of Thoracic Oncology at the Brown University Health Cancer Institute and treats patients at Rhode Island Hospital and The Miriam Hospital.

“I always knew I wanted to be a doctor, and I was drawn to medical oncology due to my interest in cancer biology. I have been a medical oncologist since 2002, so I’ve been very fortunate in my career to see a lot of incredible progress in drug therapy for lung cancer in particular.”
– Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli, medical oncologist

Dr. Azzoli’s Work Experience

Dr. Azzoli has completed advanced training in internal medicine, hematology (the study and treatment of blood), and medical oncology. He earned his medical degree from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

His experience includes:

• Professor of Medicine at Brown University
• Faculty at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center (2012-2018)
• Fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• Faculty at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (2002-2012)

His work now draws on years spent caring for patients, teaching other doctors, and studying new ways to treat thoracic cancers.

Highlights of Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli’s Medical Career

Dr. Azzoli has dedicated his career to improving treatment for patients with thoracic cancers through medical oncology, clinical research, and national leadership.

Throughout his career, he has:

• Combined patient care, education, and research throughout his career in academic medicine
• Helped develop national clinical practice guidelines through the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
• Led clinical research focused on improving treatment for thoracic cancers

His ongoing research into new drugs and diagnostic blood tests continues to shape the future of care for thoracic cancer patients.

Dr. Azzoli’s Accolades and Awards

Dr. Azzoli has also earned recognition from his medical peers for his research efforts, teaching, and medical oncology expertise.

His awards and accolades include:

• Marquis Who’s Who recognition (2017)
• Fellowship Teaching Award (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, and 2012)
• Housestaff Teaching Award (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center 2000)

These honors reflect Dr. Azzoli’s longstanding work in medical education and thoracic oncology.

Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli’s Work in Mesothelioma & Thoracic Cancer Research

In addition to caring for patients, Dr. Azzoli has contributed to research that may improve treatment for mesothelioma and other thoracic cancers.

His research has included:

• Molecular Characterization of Pericardial Mesothelioma With Constrictive and Recurrent Pericarditis: TAZ Amplification and Hippo Pathway. Published in JACC: Case Reports, October 2025.
• Chitinase 3-Like-1 (chi3l1): A Potential Prognostic Biomarker for Immunotherapy (IO) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, May 2025.
• Worldwide Innovative Network (WIN) Consortium in Personalized Cancer Medicine: Bringing Next-Generation Precision Oncology to Patients. Published in Oncotarget, 2025.
• TRAIL Agonists Rescue Mice From Radiation-Induced Lung, Skin, or Esophageal Injury. Published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, January 2025.
• Chitinase 3-Like-1 (chi3l1) in the Pathogenesis of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Published in Translational Oncology, November 2024.
• Preclinical Synergistic Combination Therapy of Lurbinectedin with Irinotecan and 5-Fluorouracil in Pancreatic Cancer. Published in Current Oncology, October 2023.

Connect with Dr. Azzoli through our Free Doctor Match to discuss your treatment options and next steps.

Get Connected with Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli

Dr. Christopher Azzoli is recognized for his expertise in thoracic oncology, personalized cancer care, and clinical research. He works closely with other specialists to help patients receive individualized treatment.

At Mesothelioma Hope, we connect patients with experienced mesothelioma specialists, leading cancer centers, and support resources nationwide. Our Patient Advocates are here to help you explore your treatment options.

Try our Free Doctor Match to connect with Dr. Christopher G. Azzoli or call (866) 608-8933 to find treatment centers and support resources.