Cancer Foundation

The Cancer Foundation was established in 1948 to support scientific research into cancer diseases. As well as funding domestic cancer research, the Foundation’s funding also enables the Finnish Cancer Organisations to provide free advice to patients and those close to them.

The Cancer Foundation is the largest private funder of cancer research in Finland. The Foundation has had a significant influence in enabling Finnish researchers to receive support for their work. Both basic research and clinical research have been supported through grants.

The Foundation’s operations are supported by gifts, most of its research funds are provided through legacies and donations. Donations from private individuals, companies and associations have enabled Finnish cancer research to progress. As a result of the research, two thirds of cancer patients recover from their illness.

Of the money donated to the Cancer Foundation, 90 per cent goes to cancer research and about 10 per cent to administration. Costs are generated by the requirements, established by the acts and decrees on foundations, for sufficient administration such as auditing.

The Finnish Cancer Foundation shares its administration with the Cancer Society of Finland. The Secretary General of the Finnish Cancer Organisations, Sakari Karjalainen, is also the officer for the Cancer Foundation. The board of the Cancer Foundation has 11 members and is chaired by Adjunct Professor, Seija Grénman.

The Cancer Foundation is part of the Finnish Cancer Organisations.

Updated 2.2.2012