Cancer Center Update

November 2006

The University of Kansas' number one priority is to achieve comprehensive cancer center designation from the National Cancer Institute for the KU Cancer Center. This designation marks the highest standard of achievement for academic and research institutions and will bring with it world class treatment and research for individuals across the region.

Cancer mortality rates are decreasing in the region by only half the national average, with more than 5,300 Kansans dying of cancer each year. Bringing a NCI-designated cancer center will improve survivorship in the region by enabling more advanced cancer care and providing access to cutting-edge clinical trials.

KU Medical Center shares the NCI's goal of eliminating suffering and death due to cancer by 2015. It will not be easy, but we have already made progress toward that magnificent aspiration.

From the earliest stages of cancer research to delivery of novel therapeutic agents at the bedside and cancer prevention, KUCC is already demonstrating great promise as a candidate for the NCI's sought-after status.

We have assembled a team of experienced leaders under KUCC Director Roy Jensen, MD, including KUCC Deputy Director Karen Kelly, MD, and Scott Weir, our first director of its Office of Therapeutics, Discovery and Development.

KUCC have already identified 70 percent of the funding needed to support the vision, which includes $5 million in annual appropriations budgeted by Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and approved by the Kansas Legislature.

In order to ensure these investments are managed most effectively, we have developed a business plan to guide us.

By forming a winning team, establishing valuable partnerships and executing sound strategies, KUCC will become an institution where discoveries in basic research mean improved cancer prevention and patient care across Kansas and the heartland.

We have the opportunity to replace fear and death with hope and life. That is our calling.