The University of Illinois Cancer Center is a science-first research institution that gives every patient with cancer equal access to world class treatment.

Almost 260 Cancer Center member physicians and scientists are dedicated to ending disparities in cancer care and no patient is ever turned away. We connect people with the resources they need to understand their cancer risk, detect it early and get comprehensive treatment. Our patients can receive promising cancer therapies before they are widely available, closing the gap between underserved communities and access to better treatments.

Our researchers are unlocking the mysteries of cancer by integrating genetics, biology and public health information to identify factors that influence the frequency and severity of disease. This collaborative effort extends deep into the patient population, helping create health equity in our communities.

The Cancer Center is part of the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System (UI Health). UI Health provides comprehensive care, education and research to the people of Illinois and beyond. A part of the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), UI Health comprises an enterprise that includes a tertiary care hospital, 40+ outpatient clinics and 11 Mile Square Health Center facilities, which are Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) locations. With campuses located in Chicago, Peoria, Quad Cities, Rockford, Springfield and Urbana, the health system involves the academic, training and research activities of UIC’s seven health science colleges: Applied Health Sciences; Dentistry; Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, the School of Public Health; and the Jane Addams College of Social Work. UI Health is dedicated to the pursuit of health equity.

Mission & Vision

The University of Illinois Cancer Center mission is to provide innovative care designed to eliminate cancer health inequities by elevating the voices of our diverse communities as stakeholders in discovery, education, and the provision of care.

Our vision is to eliminate cancer health inequities and improve cancer outcomes for all.

Who We Serve

The University of Illinois Cancer Center serves patients across Cook County, including the city of Chicago and surrounding suburbs. We work in the communities we serve to prevent cancer, discover effective treatments for patients and create new understanding about the disease. The diversity of our patients improves scientific understanding of how biology and societal factors contribute to an unequal cancer burden.

Cook County is home to more than 40% of the state’s population and has been designated by the federal government a Medically Underserved Area (MUA).

Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The University of Illinois Cancer Center passionately embraces diversity in our pursuit of excellence across cancer research, patient care, and education. We believe in the power of diversity, spanning characteristics like race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, socioeconomic status, disability, and cultural background. This diversity enriches our understanding of cancer, fostering innovation and improving patient outcomes. Our commitment to inclusivity extends across all facets of our work.

In research, we actively cultivate a diverse community of scientists, clinicians, and scholars to drive creativity and collaboration. We empower underrepresented individuals in cancer research through support and resources, encouraging boundary-pushing solutions to cancer’s challenges.

In clinical practice, we provide equitable, culturally sensitive care to all patients, regardless of background, fostering a patient-centered approach that respects individual values and beliefs.

In education, we’re dedicated to training a diverse next generation of cancer experts, believing education is a powerful tool for promoting inclusivity and positive change. We prepare students to address cancer complexities and actively support initiatives promoting diversity in STEM fields and mentorship programs.

We acknowledge that diversity and inclusion require ongoing effort and reflection. We actively seek feedback and implement policies and practices to promote diversity and equity throughout our organization, striving to dismantle systemic barriers.

Our vision is to create a future where diversity is celebrated, where every voice is heard and valued, and where we truly make a difference in the fight against cancer. We invite everyone, regardless of their background, to join us on this journey.