UCSD Cancer Center was founded in 1978 with the award of its first NCI core grant. Since then it has received continuous NCI core grant support, achieving comprehensive cancer center status in 2001.
Following a generous contribution from Rebecca and John Moores, it was renamed the Moores Cancer Center of the University of California, San
Diego Medical Center. In 2005, the 270,000 square-foot Cancer Center
building opened with a landmark consolidation of cancer research and
patient care under one roof. The building now represents a major presence on the UCSD campus with highly integrated molecular level laboratory research in oncogenesis, population based studies on the etiology and risks of cancer, and advanced clinical trials toward more effective treatments.
Under the leadership of Dennis Carson, M.D., the Cancer Center is developing relationships with the San Diego biotechnology and pharmaceutical community to accelerate the translation of basic science discoveries into new and improved options for cancer patients, with the
goal of creating a molecular targeted, early diagnostics program. The
Center’s prevention research seeks to better understand and influence
the relationship between the environment and cancer, including diet,
tobacco use, exercise and obesity. Many activities involve the community, with projects addressing cancer risk across the culturally diverse landscape
of Southern California; and working with neighborhood agencies to educate
and assist underserved populations. The mission of the Moores Cancer Center is best reflected in the advanced care of the cancer patient, and the research setting that surrounds it. |
