The National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service (NCI/CIS)

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, and a critical strategy in cancer control efforts is the education of Americans about steps they can take to prevent cancer, detect it early when treatment is most likely to be effective, and choose the best treatment plan. For nearly 30 years, the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service has been providing the latest and most accurate cancer information to patients, their families, health professionals, and the public. Through its network of regional offices and partnerships with nonprofit, private, and other government agencies, NCI/CIS reaches people who may have limited access to health information.

To effectively reach as many people as possible, NCI/CIS partners with state and regional organizations that directly serve these populations. By pooling resources toward common goals, NCI/CIS and its partners leverage resources and design programs with wider reach. NCI/CIS assists organizations seeking cancer-related expertise by providing:

• Education about the latest, most accurate cancer information, resources available from NCI, and referrals
  
  
• Training on methods to educate their populations on cancer-related topics
  
  
• Assistance in planning cancer education programs and evaluating their success
  
  
• Assistance in developing new coalitions or strengthening existing coalitions
  
  
• Advice about strategies to reach minority and medically underserved

State and regional organizations can learn more about collaborating with NCI/CIS by contacting the Partnership Program Coordinator at the UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center, Aida Negrón, or visiting the NCI's Cancer Information Service's website.

The UCSF Comprehensive Cancer Center is under contract with the National Cancer Institute's CIS California Region to serve the State of California.