12 Cancer as a Public Health Problem: An Overview for Allied Healthcare Professionals

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12 Cancer as a Public Health Problem: An Overview for Allied Healthcare Professionals

Linda G. Alley

Hannah D. Paxton

Michelle D. Flores

Jeff Etchason

· Cancer is an enormous global health burden, touching every region and socioeconomic level. American Cancer Society [ACS], 2012, p. 53

· The worldwide application of existing cancer control knowledge according to the capacity and economic development of countries or regions could lead to the prevention of even more cancer deaths in the next 2 or 3 decades. In order to achieve this, however, national and international public health agencies, governments, donors, and the private sectors must play major roles in the development and implementation of national or regional cancer control programs worldwide. Brawley, 2011 , p. 68

OBJECTIVES

After reading this chapter the reader will be able to:

· 1. Compare and contrast global cancer statistics, including types, risks, geographic locations, and treatments in developed and developing nations.

· 2. Relate economic, personal, and physiological costs of cancers worldwide.

· 3. Discuss cancer survivorship and palliative and end-of-life care for cancer patients worldwide.

· 4. Compare and contrast disparities in cancer statistics for vulnerable populations.

· 5. Discuss the role of cancer registries worldwide.

· 6. Compare and contrast cancer prevention, control and education strategies.

· 7. Explain how public policy changes can decrease cancer risks in various global populations.

INTRODUCTION