American Cancer Society research
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American Cancer Society Research Program: History and Impact
The American Cancer Society (ACS) has played a major role in advancing cancer research, prevention, and treatment in the United States. Since its founding in 1913 as the American Society for the Control of Cancer, the ACS has evolved to become the largest private, not-for-profit funder of cancer research and training in the country, investing over $3.6 billion in research and supporting nearly 31,000 grants to about 21,000 researchers at more than 1,000 institutions since 1946 28.
Funding and Support for Cancer Research
The ACS research program was established in the mid-1940s to fund promising cancer research at universities and institutes across the U.S. Its mission has focused on determining the causes, prevention, early detection, and cure of cancer as quickly as possible. While the National Cancer Institute (NCI) eventually surpassed the ACS in total funding, the ACS remains the largest private source of cancer research funding 2.
The ACS supports a wide range of research, from laboratory-based basic science to applied research in cancer prevention, survivorship, oncology nursing, and social science. In recent years, the Society has increased its focus on cancer control science and health disparities, aiming to ensure that research findings benefit all populations 2.
Support for Early Career Investigators
A significant portion of ACS funding is dedicated to supporting early career investigators, defined as scientists within six to eight years of starting an independent research career. This focus helps ensure a pipeline of future leaders in cancer research, especially in basic and laboratory science 2. The ACS Professorships are among the most prestigious grants, recognizing key thought leaders who have made substantial contributions to the field 43.
Research Areas and Strategic Focus
The ACS has strategically shifted its funding to balance basic and applied research. Key areas of focus include tobacco control, breast and colorectal cancer screening, improving nutrition, increasing physical activity, reducing obesity, survivorship, and quality of life. The Society also funds research related to the implementation of health policies, such as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act 2.
Dissemination and Education
The ACS is committed to educating both professionals and the public about cancer research. Its flagship journal, CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, highlights ACS-funded research and features work from both grant recipients and ACS Professors, ensuring that new findings reach a broad audience of cancer professionals 3.
Epidemiological Research and Public Health
Since 1946, the ACS has also conducted important epidemiological research, tracking cancer trends and risk factors. This work has contributed to understanding the rise in lung cancer deaths and other cancer patterns, informing public health strategies and prevention efforts 5.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Goals
Despite significant progress, the ACS faces challenges such as budget constraints and the need to increase research funding to historic levels. The Society aims to raise its research budget to $250 million per year and to expand the number of cancer control grants funded. Continued support for research is seen as critical to the ACS mission of saving more lives from cancer 2.
Conclusion
The American Cancer Society has been instrumental in shaping cancer research, supporting early career scientists, and promoting both basic and applied research to reduce cancer incidence and mortality. Its ongoing commitment to funding, education, and public health ensures that the benefits of research reach diverse populations and continue to drive progress in the fight against cancer 123458.
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