The National Cancer Institute's (NCI) policies are outlined in strategic plans and in The Nation's Investment in Cancer Research, the annual plan and budget proposal. Currently, NCI is focused on 3 strategies to find cures for cancer:

Identifying extraordinary scientific opportunities, such as the Human Genome Project;

Reviewing and evaluating current research arrangements, such as the redesign of the national clinical trials system; and

Developing priorities for site specific cancers through the Progress Review Groups (PRGs).

These plans reflect the priorities of the former NCI Director, Dr. Richard Klausner. In late 2001, President Bush named oncologist and cancer survivor Andrew Von Eschenbach, MD, to direct the NCI. Dr. Von Eschenbach came to NCI from the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where he was director of the Genitourinary Cancer Center and director of the Prostate Cancer Research Program. According to early reports, Dr. Von Eschenbach may change the strategic direction of NCI to focus more on basic rather than on clinical research.

To learn more about NCI, including how NCI funds research, conducts planning and priority setting, visit their web site.

For childhood cancer, policies are implemented through the Pediatric Section of the Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP). CTEP oversees and approves federally-funded clinical and preclinical pediatric oncology programs. Part of NCI's Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, CTEP establishes clinical plans for new anti-cancer therapies, acts as the liaison to the Food and Drug Administration and reviews and tracks clinical protocols. It plays an active role in managing and distributing new agents from industry and academic sources. For more information about CTEP, visit their web site.

Cancer policy is also made through NCI's advisory boards and panels.