Cancer prevention and control: a science-based public health agenda

A public health agenda for cancer prevention and control is presented that is based upon scientific evidence from epidemiologic studies. This agenda gives priority to primary prevention focused upon tobacco, diet, sexual activity, alcohol, sunlight, and physical activity. In addition, secondary prevention or screening is discussed, comparing ACS guidelines and NCI statements. The immediate task for public health is to develop cancer prevention programs that will eliminate the disparity in cancer morbidity and mortality across racial and ethnic groups and reduce risk in all segments of the population.