Despite the global economic recession, the Jamaica Cancer Society (JCS) is moving ahead with plans to raise the much-needed funds to fight cancer through its flagship event - Relay for Life.

Speaking Tuesday evening during the launch of Relay for Life, chairman of the JCS, Earl Jarrett, said when the organisation was formed 54 years ago, the founding fathers thought that a cure for the disease would have been found by now.

"Today, we fight cancer the best we know," Jarrett said, adding that the JCS supports research and other activities.

According to the JCS, Relay For Life is an overnight team event that increases awareness of cancer.

The event will be held from June 13 to 14 at the Police Officers' Club, St Andrew.

At Relay For Life, teams of friends, neighbours, families, and co-workers commit to keeping at least one member walking the track at all times.

Hugh Lawson, chief executive officer of the National Health Fund (NHF), platinum sponsor of Relay for Life, said his group was proud of the work of the JCS.

According to him, the work gives the NHF the unique opportunity to provide much-needed funds.

The NHF contributed $1 million for the event last year and has plans to further increase the donation this time around.