Press Releases

ATLANTA – May 5, 2023 - The American Cancer Society (ACS) commends the surgeon general for issuing an advisory on the healing effects of social connection and community. We strongly support this effort as ACS has long recognized and highlighted the harmful effects of social isolation and loneliness, particularly on people with cancer.

“We applaud the surgeon general’s commitment to mobilizing the entire health sector to foster a stronger culture of connection and support to help strengthen social infrastructure in local communities,” said Dr. Arif Kamal, chief patient officer for the American Cancer Society.

“We stand with the surgeon general by continuing our rich tradition of supporting cancer patients and their families by providing access to patient assistance programs such as our Cancer Survivors Network and Reach for Recovery and ACS Hope Lodges. These programs link patients to vital services and resources and the impactful connections and friendships they seek on their cancer journey. Our efforts, combined with those of the surgeon general and other organizations committed to empowering patients with the support they need to live longer and fuller lives move us closer to our mission of ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.”

Additional resources:
Coping and Living Well During Cancer Treatment
Living Well After Cancer Treatment

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About the American Cancer Society

The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 100 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.