Message from the Director

The Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of the premier cancer centers in the world and the most advanced center in the Southeast. Since its inception in 1972 as one of the nation’s first comprehensive cancer centers, the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center has been at the forefront of efforts to understand, prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer through patient care, clinical research, laboratory investigation and education. Every activity the Cancer Center undertakes – from basic research to clinical trials to educational programs – is aimed at improving the care of cancer patients.

I am excited about the prospect of what the future holds. My goals for the Cancer Center reflect the broad and deep institutional commitment to developing programs of excellence to improve the lives of patients with cancer, based on outstanding patients’ care, teaching, and research. The opportunities to have an impact on improving the lives of patients with cancer have never been greater, and the Cancer Center will make every effort to align and address these opportunities.

At Duke, there is a theme that permeates the atmosphere here – "At Duke, there is Hope." We do not abandon any patient or family in their struggle against cancer, no matter what the situation may be. Duke oncologist Dr. Joseph Moore said, "I truly believe there's no one whom I can't help somehow. I may not be able to cure them, but I can relieve some of their symptoms, or ease their anxieties just by being available and letting them know I'm truly interested in their well-being." This is our commitment to every cancer patient at Duke.

With the combination of strong patient support programs; compassionate and dedicated doctors, nurses and researchers; as well as the latest methods in cancer prevention and treatment, I am proud to say that the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center has established itself as one of the very best in cancer research and treatment.

During the next decade, with the continuing strong support from all of our friends and supporters, the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center will remain at the forefront of cancer research and cancer prevention and treatment.

H. Kim Lyerly, MD