Founded in 2006, the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation is a global 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Its mission is to support patients and render cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) a treatable disease. The Foundation supports basic and translational research and raises awareness about the rare bile duct cancer through fundraising, advocacy, education, and collaboration.
Cholangiocarcinoma is a highly lethal cancer of the liver with a poor prognosis. Approximately 10,000 cases are diagnosed in the United States each year. Cholangiocarcinoma is the second most common primary liver cancer in the world. It is often diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment is only minimally effective, emphasizing the imminent need for novel therapies.
As a premier source of cutting-edge research and innovative therapies, the Foundation unites the scientific community through collaborations of seasoned physicians and young investigators who are working on precision early diagnostics and prevention and precision therapeutics. Patients and caregivers are provided more than education about cholangiocarcinoma. They are connected to one another through a mentoring program, CholangioConnect, social media group pages, provided support with care kits, and kept up-to-date about the latest breakthroughs in care.