Why We Need Your Help

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. Today, one out of every 4 deaths is cancer-related. With a rapidly aging population and an increase in cancer diagnoses, this number is expected to double within the next 30 years and increase more than four-fold in the next 50 years, making cancer the leading cause of death in the United States. Tragically, as the number of cancer incidences increase, the number of oncology nurses who are available to provide specialized care for patients with cancer is decreasing. Statistics show that, by the year 2015, the number of patients who need specialized cancer care will greatly outweigh the number of oncology nurses that are trained to provide treatment.

Oncology nurses play a unique, critical role in the care of patients with cancer. From prevention and detection to end-of-life care, oncology nurses work with individuals and families to plan, implement, and monitor cancer care. They educate patients, family members, and colleagues about cancer treatments and symptoms. They act as patient and family advocates, securing vital information; responding to urgent questions with quick and accurate answers; and helping individuals to maintain a maximum level of independence. Oncology nurses are leaders, working together to advance patient care on a daily basis.

With your partnership, ONS Foundation will create and maintain education and research opportunities that play a vital role in supporting oncology nursing, helping oncology nurses to provide the high quality, specialized care that patients with cancer need - now and in the future.