The Louisiana Cancer Research Center (LCRC) was founded in 2002 under the direction of the Louisiana State Legislature. Our mission is to promote education and conduct research in the diagnosis, detection and treatment of cancer, while pursuing a National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation.
Through our coordinated approach, we recruit world-class faculty, educate future scientists, focus on discovery and development of therapies leading to clinical treatment programs, and implement statewide outreach initiatives. Our programs are designed to support research efforts and develop improved tools or new opportunities for early detection, treatment and prevention of cancer, while reaching out to Louisiana communities.
Louisiana has one of the highest cancer mortality rates in the nation, with annual statistics having a numeric equivalent of about 160 people dying from cancer in the state every week (American Cancer Society). Many studies involving the Louisiana tumor registry find that Louisiana does not have a higher incident of most cancers, instead, we have higher death rates.
LCRC works with colleagues in the community, throughout the state and beyond to share information about news and events related to cancer prevention, early detection, research and other topics of interest to those who are fighting for a cure.
In 2001, the Louisiana legislature placed a high priority on addressing cancer in Louisiana and advanced several actions, committing over $250 million to foster the highest level of cancer research, education and care in Louisiana. Their actions were driven by the horrific mortality statistics and the appalling costs to the State economy, with studies indicating an annual productivity loss of approximately $400 million due to excessive early death caused by cancer.
It may start with research but it’s really about a child with leukemia, a mother with breast cancer, a father with lung cancer, a sister with ovarian cancer, a grandmother, a brother…
Research isn’t about what we think we want. It’s about what they need us to be. LCRC brings together LSU, Tulane, Xavier and Ochsner to find ways to fight cancer. Our focus is on research and outreach to serve a population who experience some of the highest cancer mortality rates in the nation.
Copyright © 2012—2013 Louisiana Cancer Research Center.
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