The development of cancer programs and organizations in Canada is traced from their beginnings until the present time, and tribute is paid to our pioneers, of whom Dr. Richards was an outstanding example in this field. Although provinical cancer control measures vary, there is a marked similarity among some, so that they can be categorized into two or three patterns. The desirable requirements for the establishment and progressive development of cancer centres is described together with their relationship to increasing integration of teaching and research activities. An attempt is made to predict the future pattern of our "cancer clinic" system in which there will be increasing reliance on an interdisciplinary approach.