For the first time in history, cancer has become the leading cause of death in Maine with one in four deaths due to cancer. There is good news, though.   Improvements in prevention, detection, and treatment of many types of cancer have led to a decline in the overall cancer death rate in Maine and the nation. Despite these declines, cancer continues to demand significant focus and resources.   The population in Maine is aging and becoming demographically more diverse.   Because the risk of having cancer increases with age, it is anticipated that the number of cancer cases will double by 2050.  This increase will place a significant demand on the health care system.  

State Cancer Profiles This is a comprehensive CDC site for cancer statistics at the national, state and county levels.  The site includes many useful tools for interpreting the data as well as a tutorial.

To get involved in Maine's prevention activities, email info@mainecancerconsortium.org