The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) together with the Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF), CancerCare, the Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) and Genentech announced the launch of a new partnership, the Alliance for Resource Collaboration in Hematology (ARCH). ARCH was developed by these five leading organizations to connect people with lymphoma, their caregivers and loved ones to educational resources and support.

Lymphoma is the name for a group of blood cancers that develop in the lymphatic system, and in 2015 an estimated 80,000 new cases of lymphoma will be diagnosed in the United States. With more than 70 different types of lymphoma, it can be challenging for people to understand which type they have, what treatment options are available, and how they can access the appropriate programs and services.

"Many people diagnosed with lymphoma, particularly in community cancer programs, are unaware of all the resources available to them," said Louis J. DeGennaro, Ph.D., LLS's president and chief executive officer. "With this new initiative, our goal is to empower people with lymphoma to be active partners in their care and ensure they don't feel isolated in their journey."

By visiting www.LymphomaResources.com, people can connect to the partner organizations to learn about the different types of lymphoma, explore treatment options, find information about specialists and search financial support options. The ARCH website also helps people find patient communities, peer support programs and counseling services. The partner organizations provide these resources in a variety of formats, including in-person programs, online materials and telephone support.

It is estimated that only 15 per cent of US cancer patients are treated at the nation's major academic cancer centers; the vast majority receive care at cancer programs in or near their home community, where resources may be more limited. By bringing together ACCC's network of community cancer programs with the quality resources provided by LLS, LRF and CancerCare, ARCH aims to have an immediate impact on access to information for lymphoma patients where the need is greatest.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society  (LLS) is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

The Lymphoma Research Foundation (LRF) is the nation's largest non-profit organization devoted to funding innovative research and serving the lymphoma community through a comprehensive series of education programs, outreach initiatives and patient services.

Founded in 1944, CancerCare is the leading national organization providing free, professional support services and information to help people manage the emotional, practical and financial challenges of cancer.

The Association of Community Cancer Centers (ACCC) serves as the leading advocacy and education organization for the multidisciplinary cancer care team.

Founded more than 35 years ago, Genentech is a leading biotechnology company that discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious or life-threatening medical conditions.