Supplement: UK MCC CCSG # Markey CARES Tobacco Program

The Markey Cancer Center (MCC), a dedicated matrix cancer center established as an integral part of the University of Kentucky (UK) and the UK HealthCare enterprise, has undergone dramatic expansion in recent years, including attainment of support as the only NCI-designated cancer center in Kentucky. This significant momentum is being harnessed to drive a measureable reduction in cancer mortality in Kentucky, particularly the underserved central and eastern parts of the state (i.e., predominately the Appalachia region), through a comprehensive program of cancer research, prevention, community outreach, and patient care. Situated on a campus with six health profession colleges in close proximity to each other, MCC offers a history of rich transdisciplinary collaboration, an outstanding cancer prevention and control program that has produced seminal work in under-served and high-risk populations, nationally acclaimed basic research programs, and a translational therapeutics program. What this administrative supplement brings to MCC is a thoughtful and sustainable tobacco treatment program that is responsive to relevant clinical practice guidelines. Specifically, provider education that is primarily in the form of an online training program capable of being tailored to meet individual learner’s needs complements patient care that involves population-based assessment, proactive treatment, systematic follow-up, and integrated support. Together, this comprehensive plan to address the high burden of tobacco in MCC patients through a two-pronged approach of provider education and patient care would considerably strengthen MCC’s commitment to reducing the burden of tobacco in Kentucky.