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Healing with Culture.
Reclaiming Indigenous Health.

Welcome to the American Indian Cancer Foundation

The American Indian Cancer Foundation (AICAF) is a national non-profit organization that was established to address the tremendous cancer inequities faced by Native communities. AICAF is Native-governed; its board members and employees have an array of experience serving the health needs of our people.

Our Mission

Eliminate the cancer burdens of Indigenous people through improved access to prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivor support.

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Survivorship

Jean’s cancer team warned her about the possibility of being bedridden, experiencing fatigue, and losing her appetite. “I was all of those things, but I didn’t let it overcome me.

-Jean Howard (Leech Lake Ojibwe), Breast Cancer Survivor

He was shocked when he heard doctors had discovered a large mass on his right side, which turned out to be stage 3 colon cancer. Initially he didn’t believe it because there were no physical indicators, but colon cancer often develops without any signs or symptoms.

-Johnny Nelson (Navajo), Colorectal Cancer Survivor

An extensive full-body scan showed that cancer hadn’t spread to Mary Ann’s major organs. News like this lifted her spirits, reminding her to take every day as it came, and to celebrate those “little milestones” on the way to recovery.

-Mary Ann Cook (Red Lake Ojibwe), Cervical Cancer Survivor

Andrea says even though her life was very different after the diagnosis, her friends helped her stay true to herself. ‘I was still the same girl,’ she continued, ‘I just happened to be living with cancer.’

-Andrea Rutstein (Oglala Lakota), RMS Survivor

AICAF’s Survivorship Program addresses the needs of Native cancer survivors, caregivers, and their families.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SURVIVORSHIP
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Our Cancer Prevention
Projects

Programs &
Projects

Breast Cancer

Cervical Cancer

Colorectal Cancer

Lung Cancer

Healthy Native Foods

Policy Work

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Resources

Financial Assistance

Infographics

Toolkits

Webinars

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powwow-for-hope

Powwow for Hope ® Dancing for Life, Love & Hope

Powwow for Hope is a nationwide community event and fundraiser for the American Indian Cancer Foundation. Each year thousands of community members and supporters come together to honor loved ones who have faced or are currently facing cancer by creating a space for healing.

Get Involved

Our Community

AICAF staff cannot do this work without the support of our funders, tribal and urban partners, clinics, community members, donors, and volunteers. We are grateful you continue to join us on this mission, and applaud your commitment to improving health outcomes in Indian Country.

AICAF Champions
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