About the American Cancer Association™
The American Cancer Association™ (ACA) is a specialized grassroots nonprofit organization that focuses on translating complex medical breakthroughs into accessible information for the public. Although it has a separate brand identity, it is often associated with the American Cancer Fund® (ACF), as the two organizations joined forces in 2005 to streamline their missions of education and patient empowerment.
Key Distinctions
While both organizations share a commitment to fighting cancer, they serve different primary functions in the healthcare landscape:
- American Cancer Association (ACA): Acts as the educational arm, specializing in taking "leading-edge" cancer research—often conducted at top-tier cancer hospitals—and distilling it into simple, actionable information for patients and their families. Their goal is to bridge the gap between high-level clinical science and the general public’s understanding to help people make smarter treatment choices.
- American Cancer Fund (ACF): Primarily serves as a major resource hub and grant locator. It funds specific research projects at major institutions and identifies direct navigation services to help patients find reliable information and support quickly.
Relationship with Research Hospitals
The ACA works closely with clinical research environments to monitor the latest advancements in oncology. By partnering with or monitoring the work of NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers as well as the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and its top-ranked facilities like MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering, the ACA ensures that the latest therapeutic options and diagnostic tools are made known to the public through the Cancer Education Resources it identifies.
The American Cancer Association (ACA) provides an extensive array of educational modules and patient resources designed to guide individuals through the complexities of a diagnosis. Key offerings include:
Cancer 101 Educational Guides
Comprehensive resources that define various cancer types, detailing risk factors, prevention strategies, and early detection methods to empower patients with baseline knowledge.
Financial & Practical Assistance Directories
Curated lists of programs that provide aid for basic living expenses, insurance premiums, transportation to treatment, and housing assistance during long-term care.
Disease-Specific Awareness Campaigns
Educational initiatives like the Kissing Off Cancer? campaign and monthly awareness focuses (e.g., Gallbladder and Bile Duct Cancer) that synthesize lifestyle choices and screening guidelines into actionable health information.
Organizational Grants for Education
Funding provided to partners like the Patient Advocate Foundation to ensure patients have access to professional case management and localized support services at no cost.
Feel prepared for every appointment
Carrying the right information can empower you during your cancer care journey. Use these tools to help organize this information so you can be an active participant in your cancer care.
Keep them handy for use at home and bring them along to your doctor visits and other medical appointments.