The Louisiana Cancer Endowment drives targeted investments in research, education, and early detection to combat our state’s critical cancer challenges. We focus on high-risk communities, especially in “Cancer Alley” where cancer rates far exceed national averages. Through strategic partnerships with leading medical institutions, researchers, and community organizations, we’re building a comprehensive support system that reaches across Louisiana, from our largest cities to our smallest parishes.

Our mission combines innovative research funding with grassroots education programs to ensure all residents have access to quality cancer prevention, detection, and treatment resources.

By fostering collaboration between world-class research initiatives and community-based programs, we’re transforming Louisiana from a state with concerning cancer rates into a beacon of hope in cancer care and research.

The Louisiana Cancer Endowment is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation (founded 2024), affiliated with, but separate from, the Cancer Advocacy Group of Louisiana (CAGLA).

In 2019, Louisiana faced a devastating cancer crisis, recording the third-highest age-adjusted cancer incidence rate in the nation and the fifth-highest cancer mortality rate. This crisis is particularly acute in the industrial corridor between Baton Rouge and New Orleans along the Mississippi River, commonly known as “Cancer Alley.” In this 85-mile stretch, which encompasses numerous small communities and several parishes, residents face a staggering 95% greater chance of developing cancer compared to the average American. The severity of this health crisis is underscored by environmental factors, demographic disparities, and limited access to preventive care and early detection services.

These statistics aren’t just numbers — they represent families, communities, and generations of Louisianians who have been impacted by cancer’s devastating toll.

The disparities in cancer outcomes between Cancer Alley and the rest of the country highlight an urgent need for targeted intervention, increased research, and sustained investment in cancer prevention and treatment resources.

In 2019, Louisiana faced a devastating cancer crisis, recording the third-highest age-adjusted cancer incidence rate in the nation and the fifth-highest cancer mortality rate. This crisis is particularly acute in the industrial corridor between Baton Rouge and New Orleans along the Mississippi River, commonly known as “Cancer Alley.” In this 85-mile stretch, which encompasses numerous small communities and several parishes, residents face a staggering 95% greater chance of developing cancer compared to the average American. The severity of this health crisis is underscored by environmental factors, demographic disparities, and limited access to preventive care and early detection services.

These statistics aren’t just numbers — they represent families, communities, and generations of Louisianians who have been impacted by cancer’s devastating toll.

The disparities in cancer outcomes between Cancer Alley and the rest of the country highlight an urgent need for targeted intervention, increased research, and sustained investment in cancer prevention and treatment resources.