According to the National Cancer Institute, approximately 12 million cancer survivors live in the United States today. This huge number is attributable to advances in cancer research which have led to better prevention, care, and early detection. But much work still needs to be done. Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the United States. One-half of all men and one-third of all women will receive a cancer diagnosis during their lifetimes.

Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) at the University of Utah is making critical contributions to understanding cancer from its beginnings. Our investigators are top physicians and scientists, collaborating through research designed to advance personalized cancer care, cancer prevention, and ultimately, to overcome this devastating disease.

We focus on rapid translation of the latest discoveries in cancer research to immediate application in clinical care—conveying the most promising new treatments direct from the laboratory to the patient without delay. Toward this goal, and with inpatient rooms near 100 percent capacity throughout most of 2008, we saw a reason to expand—and are now embarking on a construction project that will double our clinical space.

Also in 2008, clinical trials led by HCI investigators brought new hope to patients who face the rarest and most aggressive forms of cancer.

None of this would be possible without the generous support of our volunteers and donors, many of whom are themselves cancer survivors. Compelled by HCI’s mission and having benefited firsthand from HCI’s proficiency, these individuals are deeply motivated to give back by contributing to our lifesaving work.

HCI made significant advances in cancer care in 2008. This year’s annual report highlights but a few. These stories provide further evidence that there is a reason to hope when confronted with cancer. Hope is real. Hope has impact. Hope can heal.