New York State Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan
Dear Reader:
The New York State Department of Health and the American Cancer Society are very pleased to present the first-ever New York State Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan. The plan is a collaborative effort intended as a road map for the years 2003-2010, to achieve reductions in cancer rates and improve outcomes for people with cancer in New York State.
This plan is unprecedented in the level of collaboration involved in its creation. Experts from across the state participated in the plan development process. Community Forums were held to collect ideas from advocacy groups, survivors, and additional experts. Finally, a Leadership Summit brought together additional stakeholders to refine cancer control strategies. The insights garnered from all of these dedicated individuals were the fabric of the final document.
New York is a large culturally, ethnically, and geographically diverse state. The challenge of our diversity is also our strength. Optimal health for all New Yorkers and care provided in a culturally sensitive manner is dependent on the commitment of individuals and organizations throughout the state. As we implement this Plan, the community of cancer control professionals and advocates and other interested parties will be critical to the success of our joint undertaking.
The Department and ACS would like to thank the many committed individuals who came together to create our vision: to reduce the burden of cancer in New York. We welcome your comments and participation as we continue our work in cancer control.
Sincerely,
Antonia Novello, M.D., M.P.H., Dr.P.H.
Commissioner
New York State Department of Health
Donald Distasio
Chief Executive Officer
American Cancer Society, Eastern Division
