A Message from the National Cancer Institute Sunday, June 4, 2017

It is an honor to welcome you to the 30th annual National Cancer Survivors Day®. With the number of survivors in the U.S. doubling in the last quarter century and mortality rates declining, we have good reason to celebrate the tremendous progress we have made in improving outcomes for people after a cancer diagnosis.

We know there is still more we must do. At the National Cancer Institute, we support a broad portfolio of cancer survivorship research, including trials to develop more effective and less toxic treatments that minimize the risk of second cancers and other late effects. We are also redoubling our efforts to understand and overcome racial/ethnic and geographic disparities in survival. 

As acting director of the National Cancer Institute, I am grateful for the continued dedication of the scientists and healthcare providers who work tirelessly to advance cancer research and improve the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors. 

To all survivors and your loved ones, I am humbled by your courage, strength, and determination. You are the reason we do what we do. 

The partnerships established with survivors and patient advocates are vitally important in helping us better understand and address survivors’ unique physical, psychological, social, and economic needs. Working hand in hand, we can transform the cancer landscape and help survivors look forward to living as normal a life as possible after their cancers have been treated. 

Your passion and commitment make it a privilege to work alongside each and every one of you on our shared goal of living longer, healthier lives.

Douglas R. Lowy, M.D.Acting Director, National Cancer Institute

A service of the National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. 
Copyright © 2017, National Cancer Survivors Day Foundation, Inc. All rights reserved. 
P.O. Box 682285 • Franklin, TN 37068-2285 • 615.794.3006