About the American Cancer Society

In 1913, 10 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 in regard thereto." Later renamed the American Cancer Society, Inc., the organization now consists of over 2 million Americans working to conquer cancer.

Organization: The American Cancer Society, Inc., consists of a National Society, 57 Divisions, and over 3,400 Units.

The National Society: A National Board of Directors provides representation from the 57 Divisions. At the national level, the Society is responsible for overall planning and coordination of public and professional education, providing technical help and materials to Divisions and Units, and administering programs of research, medical grants and clinical fellowships.

The 57 Divisions: Located in all states plus five metropolitan areas, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, the Divisions are governed by members of Divisional boards of directors.

The Units: These are organized to cover the counties in the United States. There are thousands of community leaders who direct the Society's programs at this level.
* Descriptions of some of the Society's major programs.

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