The Highest Honor in Cancer Research
In recognition of City of Hope's excellence in cancer research and treatment, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) has designated City of Hope a Comprehensive Cancer Center. The NCI is a part of the Federal Government's National Institutes of Health, and the premier agency for cancer research in the United States.
Why This is Important
City of Hope is one of a handful of cancer centers nationwide to have received this 
honor. Organizations must go through a rigorous review process every five years, in which they are evaluated and ranked. Only those conducting the most promising, leading-edge research, including significant cancer-related research, are awarded Comprehensive Cancer Center status. It is an important credential to consider when choosing a cancer treatment facility.
Attributes of a Comprehensive Cancer Center
To achieve the Comprehensive Cancer Center designation, organizations must support a broad range of research programs and approach the problem of cancer in many different ways. Comprehensive Cancer Centers like City of Hope must have strong programs in all of the following areas:
- Cancer treatment
- Basic (laboratory) research
- Clinical research
- Prevention
- Cancer control
- Population research
- Outreach (such as support groups and community events)
- Cancer education for both professionals and the public
Comprehensive Cancer Centers also play important roles in their communities and regions, and influence the standards of prevention and care.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network Founding Member
City of Hope Cancer Center is proud to be a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), an alliance of the world's leading cancer centers. The NCCN brings together oncology thought leaders across its many programs to improve the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of oncology practice. As one of the 20 prestigious NCCN member institutions, City of Hope Cancer Center plays a critical role in advancing the state-of-the-art in cancer treatment through education, research, and patient care. Learn more about the NCCN at www.nccn.org.
Additionally, City of Hope maintains the NCCN Oncology Outcomes Database. This important tool collects and analyzes data showing cancer centers' adherence to the Practice Guidelines. With the tremendous advances being made in the cancer field today, patients and physicians need a constant flow of accurate information to make well-informed, timely decisions. The Outcomes Database program, an ambitious, comprehensive effort to advance the state-of-the-art in cancer care, provides this vital information.
City of Hope Stands Out
City of Hope has a well-established reputation for its dedication to innovative research and compassionate patient care. As an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope is also recognized as a major contributor to the treatment, prevention and understanding of cancer—both locally and nationally.
For more information, visit the Cancer Center Program Web site of the National Cancer Institute.