Newfoundland and Labrador Cancer Control Strategy Released

Following a significant investment of over $125 million in cancer prevention and treatment over the last seven years, the Williams Government today released a provincial cancer control strategy entitled Gaining Ground: A Provincial Cancer Control Policy Framework for Newfoundland and Labrador.

The goal of the strategy is to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer and to improve the quality of life of those living with cancer in Newfoundland and Labrador. To help achieve this, the Framework identifies nine key policy directions that reflect current best practices and lessons learned from all aspects of cancer control and will be used to guide the Provincial Government’s future cancer control efforts. These directions include:

Cancer prevention through promoting a healthy population;
Identifying individuals at risk;
Coordinating care;
Supportive and palliative care;
Clinical practice guidelines;
Access and advocacy;
Surveillance and information systems and technology;
Education and training; and,
Accountability and measuring success.

“As stewards of the Provincial Cancer Care Program, we welcome a solid framework from which we can develop action plans to support the fight against cancer,” said Dr. Howell. “The Provincial Government’s significant investments in screening programs, state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and cancer treatments have helped us strengthen our cancer care program. The provincial strategy will help us move from treating cancer to detecting it earlier and even preventing it."

Minister Kennedy also announced today the establishment of a new Provincial Cancer Control Advisory Committee, and the appointment of Dr. Pradip Ganguly as chair of that committee. Dr. Ganguly will provide advice to the minister on the composition of the committee, and will give recommendations on other related matters.

Minister Kennedy also announced today approximately $1.5 million in this fiscal year to support several new cancer control initiatives. More funding will be made available to support priorities following the implementation of the Provincial Cancer Control Advisory Committee.

A copy of Gaining Ground: A Provincial Cancer Control Policy Framework for Newfoundland and Labrador can be found on the Department of Health and Community Services website.

Link to a Video of Minister's News Conference