National Health Information Center 

Health Information Resource Database

[Inclusion of an information resource in this database does not imply endorsement
by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.]

Cancer Information Service, National Cancer Institute

Contact Information

Information Specialist
Room 3036A
6116 Executive Boulevard, MSC 8322

Bethesda, MD 20892-8322

800-4CANCER (Voice - Toll-free)
877-44U-QUIT (Voice - Toll-free)
800-332-8615 (Voice - TTY)

Internet Resources

Abstract

The National Cancer Institute's (NCI) Cancer Information Service (CIS) is a national resource for information and education about cancer. The CIS operates a toll-free telephone service, 1-800-4-CANCER, responding to over 390,000 calls each year. People who call the CIS reach staff who have had comprehensive training and are experienced at explaining scientific information in understandable terms. CIS Information Specialist answer calls in English and Spanish and from deaf and hard of hearing callers. CIS staff are available for as much time as each caller needs; they tailor each response to the individual and keep all calls confidential. Callers receive answers to their questions about cancer, including information on risk factors, prevention, screening, symptoms, diagnosis, current treatment options, and clinical trials (research studies). Also provided are referrals to cancer-related services such as treatment centers, mammography facilities, or other cancer organizations. Information Specialist trained in smoking cessation counseling offer assistance in quitting smoking. All NCI materials are provided at no cost to patients and their families.

Publications

CIS distributes the publications of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI's homepage at http://cancer.gov provides access to the Institute's fact sheets, press releases, and other resources for patients, the general public, educators, and community program planners.

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Notes

Audit

Date Entered: 3/1/1998
Date Edited: 6/25/2004
Date Revised: 1/3/2002
Health Referral Number: HR0068
Accession Number: 0068
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