The Arizona Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition (AZ CCC) comprised of more than 50 statewide organizations and 100 individuals has developed Arizona’s first comprehensive plan to reduce cancer morbidity and mortality in the state. The plan will be released July 7, 2005 during a conference from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, 2532 W. Peoria Avenue in Phoenix. 

At the conference, the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) will release cancer maps developed using the state’s cancer registry data from 1995-2000 that show the location of cases of 11-types of cancers statewide as divided by community health analysis area (CHAA). The cancer maps will aid researchers and communities as they implement the objectives of the Cancer Plan and assist them with targeting education, prevention and early intervention programs. 

ADHS, the American Cancer Society, the Arizona Cancer Center, and the Inter Tribal Council of Arizona are sponsoring the conference. Experts will discuss the major elements of the plan including cancer prevention, early detection and screening, diagnosis and treatment, quality of life, research, and disparities. They will also use the conference as an opportunity to invite additional stakeholders to join the coalition and continue dialogue about cancer control in Arizona. National experts will share their perspectives as keynote speakers at the event. 

The plan provides a framework for cancer prevention and control activities. The next steps for the plan’s implementation include reconvening the committees that developed the plan to begin work on its fifteen identified priorities. 

Media can access the plan prior to its release at www.azcancercontrol.gov Please call Mary Ehlert, ADHS PIO, at 602-721-0532 to arrange interviews.