Better knowledge translation for effective cancer control: a priority for action

Increasing cancer rates are a world wide problem. Efforts towards controlling cancer are most effectively implemented through national cancer control programs. The literature has emphasized prevention and screening as main starting points; by applying what we know a substantial amount of cancer could be prevented. As well, in the areas of access to care, treatment and palliation, there are also many gains to be made. However, despite advances in fundamental and applied research across the cancer continuum, there continue to be delays between research discovery and application. Translation of research knowledge has focused on means traditionally part of the research process such as publication in journals. While knowledge may be disseminated via these methods, they appear to have little impact on implementation of new approaches in practice or policy. Research in the area of knowledge translation identifies important elements and strategies most effective in the translation of research findings. Adding a knowledge translation component to national cancer control programs can help ensure that even small efforts directed at cancer control can have maximum impact.