The CIS serves as the bridge between scientific breakthroughs and public understanding. As the voice of the NCI, the Cancer Information Service explains the latest findings in clear language. Through its toll-free telephone service, the CIS provides individualized, confidential information to patients, their families, the public, and health professionals. Through its partnership program, the CIS reaches people who do not traditionally seek health information by building partnerships with organizations that have a direct link to minorities and medically underserved audiences. The goal of a clinical trial is to translate the best scientific discoveries in the laboratory into findings that directly help people.
Clinical trials can identify better ways to prevent, detect, or treat cancer.
Every day, the CIS helps people learn about clinical trials, answering questions about who can participate, what the possible benefits and risks might be, how to enter a specific clinical trial, and what other trials are available. The CIS makes more than 100,000 referrals to clinical trials each year. By introducing people to clinical trials, the CIS provides the latest information and options so that those touched by cancer can make informed choices. The Cancer Information Service also serves as a health communications laboratory. The CIS participates in cancer control and health communications research that supports NCI's scientific priorities and programs.