The American Cancer Society was founded in 1913 as the American Society for the Control of Cancer. It is one of the leading agencies in the United States that offers specialty services for cancer patients. In 1947, the American Cancer Society also began its public education campaign about the signs and symptoms of cancer. The society offers research and development, information management, international health care services, and counseling and advocacy services. It accelerates the control and cure of cancer by securing major gifts and endowments from individuals, corporations and foundations to support research, programs and services. The American Cancer Society is dedicated in eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through specialized services. The society is headquartered in Atlanta, and has more than 10 regional divisions and local offices in nearly 3,500 communities and involves millions of volunteers. It maintains an office in Pittsburgh.