The Peoria Cancer Center Foundation believes educating the community about cancer and the benefits of early detection as well as research is one of utmost importance. Both play an integral part in increasing the odds of living with the disease.

Cancer is a devastating and pervasive disease that will affect 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women in their lifetime. Cancer is the leading cause of death under the age of 65, and the 2nd leading cause of death over the age of 65. It is safe to say that everyone in this country will be affected by cancer; either personally or within their family. The Peoria Cancer Center Foundation cannot and will not ignore these statistics. In fact, these very statistics are driving the Peoria Cancer Center Foundation to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients here in Central Illinois.

Just 20 - 25 years ago, treatment options for a cancer diagnosis were limited. A doctor knew little about how cancer grew and spread, hindering efforts to develop new therapies. Radical surgery to remove tumors was often the only approach, and chemotherapy and radiation treatments kept patients hospitalized for weeks at a time.

Now, thanks to research trials, the situation has changed substantially. Over the past three decades, the nation made cancer research a priority, and the investment began paying off. Treatments have become increasingly personalized, tailored to a tumor’s specific characteristics.