What is comprehensive cancer control (CCC)? Comprehensive cancer control is the outcome of a statewide planning process that takes an integrated and coordinated approach to reducing cancer incidence, morbidity, and mortality. This is accomplished through prevention, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliation.

Why does a state need a CCC plan? Although a great deal of progress has been made to help prevent cancer and reduce death and disability, much still remains to be done. Every state has experienced some problems in making cancer control comprehensive. These problems include:

• inadequate cancer infrastructure;
• limited resources for cancer control;
• limited use of data in decision making;
• lack of coordination among cancer control efforts;
• heavy and unequal cancer burden among disparate populations;
• insufficient information about effective cancer programs and services.

What can a state accomplish through a comprehensive plan? Integration, coordination, and collaboration, among agencies and organizations involved in cancer prevention and control, can result in a powerful public health tool that:

• shares expertise;
• maximizes resources of existing programs and partnerships;
• stresses synergy as groups come together in an effort to reduce duplication of services, find the gaps in
  cancer control, and work collaboratively to fill the gaps;
• builds on a continuum of services.

What type of framework should be used in developing a state CCC plan? For a state CCC plan to be effective, it needs to be built on a framework that is:

• data-driven (setting optimal objectives);
• science-driven (determining possible strategies);
• capacity driven (planning feasible strategies);
• outcome-driven (implementing effective strategies).

How does a state begin the CCC planning process? Effective CCC planning generally requires considerable time for laying the groundwork. Using a “building blocks” model, a state should undertake six activities to assure a strong foundation for the planning process. The activities include:

• enhancing infrastructure;
• mobilizing support;
• utilizing data and research;
• building partnerships;
• assessing and addressing the cancer burden;
• conducting evaluation