American Cancer Society, cancer research and public education organization. The organization was founded in 1913 as the American Society for the Control of Cancer; its 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 in regard thereto.” The society adopted its current name in 1945. In 1993 it had more than two million members.
The society consists of a national office, 57 divisions, and more than 3400 units. The national society is responsible for overall planning; the administration of research programs, medical grants, and clinical fellowships; and public and professional education at the national level. The divisions and units are located on the state and county levels and are responsible for local education and programs.
The society supports research outside the organization as well as conducting its own research. Studies performed by the society have demonstrated the effects of cigarette smoking on mortality and lung cancer, and have examined how different lifestyles affect the occurrence of cancer. Public education programs exist on three levels: adult, youth, and professional. Adult education in the workplace, community, and health-related institutions includes health advice, assistance to people who wish to stop smoking, and self-examination information. Youth education is available for all grade levels, from kindergarten through high school.
Professional education provides health-care professionals with information on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment through national conferences and workshops; materials, including videotapes, textbooks, and two national journals; clinical awards, professorships, and scholarships; nursing programs, including a newsletter, scholarships, and professorships; and information on questionable methods of cancer management. The society also provides patient services, including patient rehabilitation programs. National headquarters is in Atlanta, Georgia.
