No abstract

According to the Pan American Health Organization, noncommunicable diseases, including cancer, are the leading causes of preventable and premature death in the Americas. Governments and health care systems in Latin America face numerous challenges as a result of increasing morbidity and mortality from cancer. Multiple international organizations have recognized the need for collaborative action on and technical support for cancer research and control in Latin America. The Center for Global Health at the US National Cancer Institute (NCI-CGH) is one entity among many that are working in the region and has sought to develop a strategy for working in Latin America that draws on and expands the collaborative potential of engaged, skilled, and diverse partners. NCI-CGH has worked toward developing and implementing initiatives in collaboration with global partners that share the common objectives of building a global cancer research community and translating research results into evidence-informed policy and practice. Both objectives are complementary and synergistic and are additionally supported by an overarching strategic framework that is focused on partnerships and science diplomacy. This work highlights the overall strategy for NCI-CGH engagement in Latin America through partnerships and diplomacy, and highlights selected collaborative efforts that are aimed at improving cancer outcomes in the region.

The Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is working with state health agency staff and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive and integrated approach to cancer control. To help stakeholders visualize the approach, a graphic model was developed based on stakeholder input and a literature review of existing models. Phases of the model include setting optimal objectives (data driven), determining optimal strategies (science driven), establishing feasible priorities (capacity driven), and implementing effective strategies (outcome driven). The model currently is being validated through case studies of state-level cancer planning in six states.

With passage of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Mortality Prevention Act of 1990, significant activity has emerged in the development, implementation, and evaluation of breast and cervical cancer screening programs targeting underserved populations. This activity has prompted health educators and program planners to identify barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening specific to low-income and minority women, those traditionally underserved by cancer control programs, and to develop strategies that address these barriers. The authors reviewed current knowledge regarding barriers to breast and cervical cancer screening and public education interventions that address them. The results and implications for program planning activities are presented.