General Resources
Relevant for both patients and caregivers, the following organizations offer a wide range of cancer-related information, including: prevention, detection, treatment options, management of side effects, finding a doctor and clinical trials.
American Cancer Society (ACS)
800-227-2345
www.cancer.org
The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers a variety of services to both patients and caregivers, specifically a robust collection of information that can benefit all people touched by cancer, regardless of their stage in the journey. The ACS provides the unique ability of searching for clinical resources within your area, including: screening locations, wellness programs and treatment options.(www.cancer.org/InYourArea/index).
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
800-422-6237
www.cancer.gov
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) coordinates the nation’s research program on cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and control. Resources on this site include: a glossary of cancer terms, NCI’s drug dictionary, information on clinical trials and fact sheets on a wide variety of cancer issues. You can connect with a designated representative of the NCI by calling them directly at 800-422-6237. Representatives will help you find local resources and can answer many questions you may have about your diagnosis.
American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR)
800-843-8114
www.aicr.org
The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) supports research and public education regarding the relation of nutrition, physical activity and weight management to cancer. This site offers a thorough background on cancer, including information on the disease, treatment options and side-effects of those treatments that patients can expect. To access information specifically for patients and caregivers, click on: www.aicr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=homepage_patients_survivors. You will find insight and advice on treatment options, as well as how to mentally and financially cope with a cancer diagnosis. The site also offers information on some of the newest treatments currently in trial.
Cancer.net
703-797-1914
www.cancer.net/portal/site/patient
Cancer.Net, the patient information website of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), provides oncologist-approved information to help patients and their families make informed healthcare decisions. The website offers a guide on managing the cost of cancer care, advice on finding a doctor and questions to ask when deciding where to treat. This resource will help you make decisions based on your needs and cancer type. For newly diagnosed patients, this site includes background on nearly every cancer type, including: an overview, statistics, illustrations, staging information, clinical trials and treatment methods (www.cancer.net/patient/Cancer+Types).