funding cancer research & cancer-related projects

Lung cancer is the #1 cause of cancer deaths in Arkansas. Survival rate is 70% if caught early (stage 1) but drops to less than 20% if caught at a later stage. This makes lung cancer screenings essential for early detection and treatment. 

Grant funds provided to CHI St. Vincent will provide screenings to 20 uninsured patients.

CARTI grant funds will be applied to the Lung Cancer Screening program, specifically new research to identify biomarkers in blood and/or tears in patients with early stage lung cancer.

Every day, patients with cancer need a ride to treatment. But many don't have a way to get there. Access to transportation to and from treatment is a critical factor in whether patients receive and complete their lifesaving cancer treatments. 

The American Cancer Society is committed to eliminating obstacles to healthcare and promoting equitable access for cancer patients. Grants funds are applied to the ACS "Access to Care" program here in Arkansas.

Our Promise House is located in Hot Springs Arkansas. Cancer patients now have a place to stay at no cost while they get their much-needed cancer treatment. Some treatments must be administered daily and commutes of more than 1-2 hours each way is unbearable when you are not feeling well. Cancer treatments are expensive, but the added costs associated with travel and lodging can make it cost prohibitive for some patients.  Grant funds will be applied to support costs of housing.

Cancer research is expensive to the tune of millions of dollars. At UAMS, the Seeds of Science program provides "seed money" to cancer researchers so they can collect the data needed that may someday lead to new treatment strategies. Grant funds will be awarded to one of the two 2024 Seeds of Science winner. 

The 2023 Seeds of Science project was Dr. Abdallah Hayer for new treatments for one of the most aggressive forms of brain cancers.

Some people are at higher risk to develop certain cancers. When you have multiple close family members who all have the same type of cancer, develop cancer at a young age or an uncommon cancer (example: men who get breast cancer), you may have inherited it or have a gene mutation. Genetic testing can provide you with key information that can help you make more informed decisions regarding current or future healthcare or treatments. Not everyone needs genetic testing, but those that do, often find that their insurance doesn’t cover it. 

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest female reproductive cancer. It often has no symptoms and is generally advanced when diagnosed. It ranks 5th in cancer deaths among women. Key facts:

• Average age at diagnosis is 63
• More common in White women than Black women
• Five-year survival rate is about 50%

 Each year we focus on a specific cancer. This year, we will focus on ovarian cancer. The cancer color is teal.