United States comprehensive cancer control plans: a national review

In 2021, the United States (US) Comprehensive Cancer Control National Partnership conducted a review of US cancer control plans. Here we have summarized the methods used and the results of this review to better understand the plans' comprehensiveness, strengths, weaknesses, and inclusion of emerging cancer prevention and control topics.

For this review, the authors adapted a tool used in a global review of national cancer control plans. The review tool was piloted, modified, and programmed into a web survey software for reviewer data entry. We obtained and reviewed plans from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 6 US Pacific Island Jurisdictions and Puerto Rico, and 8 Tribes and Tribal organizations (N = 66).

This review highlighted many strengths (e.g., use of data) of US cancer control plans and some areas where more specific plan strategies and content are needed (e.g., resource needs). 59% of plans covered all six cancer control areas. Most addressed equitable access to services (83%), but few targeted specific groups like people with disabilities (12%). Nearly all used data for objectives (96%), and most defined implementation responsibilities (76%), though only 15% discussed financial resources or strategies.

CCC plans are data-informed documents developed with community input outlining jurisdictional priorities that help inform policies and are implemented through multisectoral coalitions. These plans offer adaptable strategies that address both cancer burden and shifting social, economic, and organizational factors. While plans are strong in areas like prevention and use of data, opportunities exist to better address financial planning, the needs of specific populations like older adults and people with disabilities, and emerging topics such as vaping. The review serves as a call to action for enhanced collaboration to address these gaps and accelerate efforts to reduce the burden of cancer.