Cancer, an irregular growth of body cells, is one of the most dreaded diseases that has faced mankind for many years.  It shows no favorites and any one, man, woman or child is susceptible to its treacherous sting.  Only heart disease in our time is more prevalent than cancer.  No one knows its cause, but through constant research by dedicated scientists it is hoped that a cure may be discovered.  There is the possibility, which is being thoroughly investigated, that a virus may be responsible for some types of cancer.  Certain chemicals, radio-active materials or particles in the air are also potential causes.

The American Cancer Society, a voluntary organization dedicated to the control and extermination of cancer, has played a vital role in cancer research for over a half century.  Its immediate concern is to save lives and to alleviate suffering.  In its long range plan, the complete elimination of the disease is foreseen.  The Society carries on a program of public education in which the discovery of the disease before the symptoms occur is strongly emphasized.  They support key cancer researchers in many parts of the country and work closely with the American Medical Association as well as with local and state medical groups.  The life-line of the Society comes from the millions of volunteers who are dedicated to the work of the service program.

April is "Crusade Against Cancer Month."  On April 1st, 1965, in Washington, D. C., the United States Post Office Department issued a five cent commemorative postage stamp to remind Americans that an early medical checkup often can control the disease.  It also was a tribute to the researchers and to the countless millions who regularly support the cancer drive with a check-up and a check.  Fifty years ago few cancer patients had any hope of cure.  Today, one cancer patient in three is being saved.  The photo above shows Vonda Kay VanDyke, Miss America of 1965 who urges all Americans to support the 1965 Cancer Crusade.
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