American Cancer Society turns 100 as cancer rate declines

NEW YORK (AP) -- The American Cancer Society - one of the nation's best known and influential health advocacy groups - is 100 years old this week.

Back in 1913 when it was formed, cancer was a lesser threat for most Americans. The biggest killers then were flu, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and stomach bugs. At a time when average life expectancy was 47, few lived long enough to get cancer.

But 15 doctors and businessmen in New York City thought cancer deserved serious attention, so they founded the American Society for the Control of Cancer. The modern name would come 31 years later.

Cancer became the nation's No. 2 killer in 1938, a ranking it has held ever since.

Source: http://blogs.providencejournal.com/arts-entertainment/lifestyles/fitness/2013/05/american-cancer-society-turns-100-as-cancer-rate-declines.html

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