Cancer control research 2001

Objectives: Major societal changes, including the changing demographics of US society and the genetics and communications revolutions, are providing n ew opportunities to control cancer both in the United States and around the world. This article examines the implications of these trends and other is sues in the context of cancer control research. A seven-item strategy for c ancer control research is proposed. Results: Epidemiology, statistics, genetics, and bio-behavioral research ar e central disciplines for cancer control research. The identification of pa rticular at-risk populations is increasingly possible. Cancer control resea rch must focus on increasing fundamental knowledge in order to accelerate i mprovements in cancer prevention and early detection. Cancer control resear ch also must be used to conduct trials of new cancer detection methods, ove rcome differential participation in cancer screening, develop evidence-base d strategies to improve decision-making, and develop evidence-based cancer communications. A comprehensive cancer surveillance system is the foundatio n for cancer control research. Cancer control research must aim to reduce c ancer risk, incidence, and mortality, and improve quality of life. These ar e important challenges for the new millennium.