Cancer Plan Minnesota 2011-2016 is a framework for action that will reduce the burden of cancer in Minnesota.  The plan addresses the full spectrum of cancer care and provides the cancer community with an opportunity to build new partnerships, reduce unnecessary duplication, improve coordinate of resources, and sow the seeds for development of innovative strategies.

It includes:

1. Optimal objectives which are data driven
2. Determining possible strategies which are science driven
3. Planning feasible strategies which are capacity driven
4. Implementing effective strategies which are outcome driven

The cancer plan brings together public, private and non-profit organizations, healthcare payers, providers and patients to develop an integrated and coordinated approach to reducing the burden of cancer among all Minnesotans.

Because cancer is now the #1 killer in Minnesota and nearly 50% of Minnesotans will be diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening cancer during their lifetime.
Each year, more than 25,000 Minnesotans are diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening cancer,  and more than 9,000 die from the disease.  One in four Minnesotans will die from cancer.  More than two-thirds of cancer deaths could be prevented through the adoption of healthier lifestyles.

Because more Minnesotans are surviving cancer than ever before.
In the year 2011, an estimated 200,000 Minnesotans were living with a history of cancer. This number is projected to grow dramatically as the population ages and as advances are made in early detection and treatment.

Because the cost of cancer will continue to rise due to a number of factors including an aging population and rising healthcare costs.
No single organization or agency can address this issue alone.

• Prevent cancer from occurring when possible
• Detect cancer at its earliest stages.
• Treat all cancer patients with the most appropriate and effective therapy.
• Optimize the quality of life for every person affected by cancer.
• Eliminate disparities in the burden of cancer.

The Minnesota Cancer Alliance revised objectives, strategies and indicators from the Cancer Plan Minnesota, 2005-2010 during the winter of 2009-2010.  To achieve this, Chapter Review Groups met to discuss chapter objectives and strategies.  After these meetings they forwarded recommended objectives and strategies to the Steering Committee for consideration.

There are many ways you can assist!  Click the document below for suggestions.  Need ideas? Look at the Index of Strategies by Topic Area in the Cancer Plan Minnesota 2011-2016.

Please let us know what you are doing!  Contact Heather Hirsch by email (hirs0090@umn.edu) or by phone (612-624-4099) or complete the Activites Form.