The Cancer Patient Education Network was founded in 1989 by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) as a structure for strengthening cancer education through collaboration with patient educators at NCI-designated Cancer Centers in the United States. Wishing to broaden our reach to a larger audience of patient educators, CPEN established itself as an independent professional organization in July 2005. In 2007, Canada became the first international chapter of CPEN. Effective education helps people with cancer make informed decisions about their care and improves treatment outcomes. Using evidence-based best practices in patient and family education has contributed to the ongoing national and international efforts to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality. CPEN connects patient educators providing opportunities to share best practices, network, and mentor and support each other.
To build and foster a supportive community of cancer patient educators
Reduce the burden of cancer through education