In 1976, the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI) Cancer Information Service (CIS) began operation. Launched in Connecticut in 1976, the program now reaches all 50 states as well as Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the U.S. Pacific Islands.

The Cancer Information Service expands its reach by developing partnerships with nonprofit, private, and other government agencies at the national, regional, and state levels, through the Partnership Program. The CIS specifically reaches out to partners that have an established presence in the region, are trusted within their communities, and are dedicated to serving minority and underserved populations.