On Sept. 6, 2023, the Markey Cancer Center (MCC) became Kentucky’s first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2023, ten years after its initial NCI-Designation in 2013. The McDowell Cancer Network, precursor of the current MCC, was founded in 1975.

MCC is affiliated with the University of Kentucky (UK) and UK HealthCare. As a university matrix cancer center, MCC serves a variety of members from across the UK campus. In addition, a network of affiliate and research-based partnerships across the state contribute to MCC’s service throughout the Commonwealth.

As an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center, Markey receives public grant funds from the NCI to study and implement cancer prevention strategies, clinical trials and research studies, and evidenced-based research that will help Kentuckians the most.