Maine Cancer Plan

Since 1999, members of Maine’s Cancer Consortium have worked together every five years to create a comprehensive cancer control plan for Maine. The Maine Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan (Maine Cancer Plan) is the roadmap used to guide the state’s collaborative approach to reaching the goal of promoting and preserving the health and quality of life of the people and communities of Maine by minimizing the impact of cancer. The Consortium’s success depends on having a strategic, effective, realistic plan that reflects the priorities defined by dedicated stakeholders and partners. The Maine Cancer Plan is a collaborative document, and one meant to be shared with all those interested in helping reduce the burden of cancer in Maine.

Defining priorities for cancer in Maine is not easy. There are many cancers, and many ways to work on reducing the burden of the disease. For each revision of the Maine Cancer Plan, the Consortium works to define objectives and propose activities that meet at the intersection of three key factors: what is feasible, what is supported by research, and what will have the greatest impact on the most people in Maine. Through an extensive planning process, Consortium members and partners work hard to understand where these factors intersect, and ultimately identify priorities that will make the greatest impact on cancer in Maine.

The Maine Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan: 2011 – 2015 comprises four sections:

Burden of Cancer in Maine

Describes how cancer affects Maine, citing data for burdens we can quantify, such as how many people become sick or die from cancer. It also acknowledges the burdens we cannot quantify, including the ways cancer challenges individuals, families, and communities.

Overarching Issues Affecting Cancer in Maine

Looks at issues that are common to all cancers and all aspects of the cancer continuum. These issues are (1) Public Policy, Legislation, and Funding; (2) Disparities; and (3) Data and Surveillance. Priorities and issues included in this section are interwoven and reflected throughout all sections of the plan.

Affecting the Cancer Continuum

Examines ways to make an impact at different parts of the cancer continuum, including (1) Primary Prevention; (2) Early Detection; (3) Treatment; (4) Rehabilitation and Survivorship; and (5) Palliation and End-of-Life Care.

Working Together to Change Cancer in Maine

Looks at the administration of the Maine Cancer Plan itself, covering areas of (1) Implementation; (2) Communications; and (3) Evaluation.

The Maine Cancer Plan can be read and downloaded in sections and/or in its entirety at http://cancerplanme.pbworks.com/.