Reducing the risk of cancers. A distance learning resource for cancer prevention throughout the EC

This paper describes an initiative in distance learning for cancer prevention for health care professionals throughout the EC. 'Reducing the Risk of Cancers' is a multi-media integrated study pack of learning materials prepared by the Open University (U.K.) with funding from the Europe Against Cancer programme of the European Commission. The teaching materials aim to enhance cancer prevention and health promotion skills and competencies amongst health care professionals at local level. In the paper the background to the pack is considered, the production process is described and the aims and philosophy of the teaching materials are outlined. The content of the pack is described and usage, dissemination and evaluation for health professionals throughout Europe are discussed.