The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient support. In 1913, ten physicians and five laymen founded the American Society for the Control of Cancer. Its stated purpose was to disseminate knowledge concerning the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of cancer; to investigate conditions under which cancer is found; and to compile statistics about cancer. Later renamed the American Cancer Society, the organization now consists of over 3 million volunteers working to eliminate cancer.

The Society is the largest source of private, nonprofit cancer research funds in the United States. Its programs focus on cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, tobacco control, sun protection, diet and nutrition, and school health education. A variety of support and rehabilitation programs are offered to patients and families. Through advocacy, the Society educates policy makers about cancer and how it affects the people they represent. The American Cancer Society consists of a National Society, headquartered in Atlanta, GA, with 17 chartered Divisions throughout the country and over 3,400 Units.

Resources for NBCAM Program Planners

The Society, found in just about every community in the country, provides comprehensive resources for information, statistics, materials, and activities in support of NBCAM. Materials that can be ordered locally, by calling (800) ACS-2345, or visiting www.cancer.org include: 10 Tips for Getting a Mammogram, companion pocket consumer tip folders, and The ABC’s of Breast Health, bookmarks with information and screening guidelines. A list of activities follows.

• Tell-A-Friend® – the program designed to increase the number of women getting a mammogram for the first time.
• Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® – a walk event held in many locations in the United States in support of all Society breast cancer programs, breast cancer research, and in celebration of the breast cancer survivor.
• Reach to Recovery® – the oldest one-on-one peer support and information program for breast cancer.
• Look Good, Feel Better – an instruction program for women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment.
• tlc – a catalog that offers special products and informative articles for women with breast cancer and women who have hair loss because of cancer treatment.
• I Can Cope® – a patient and family education program, often held at local hospitals.