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Review
. 2022;9(1):10-21.
doi: 10.1007/s40471-021-00280-7. Epub 2022 Mar 21.

From Cancer Epidemiology to Policy and Practice: the Role of a Comprehensive Cancer Center

Affiliations
Review

From Cancer Epidemiology to Policy and Practice: the Role of a Comprehensive Cancer Center

Robert A Hiatt et al. Curr Epidemiol Rep. 2022.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Cancer incidence and mortality are decreasing, but inequities in outcomes persist. This paper describes the San Francisco Cancer Initiative (SF CAN) as a model for the systematic application of epidemiological evidence to reduce the cancer burden and associated inequities.

Recent findings: SF CAN is a multi-institutional implementation of existing evidence on the prevention and early detection of five common cancers (i.e., breast, prostate, colorectal, liver, and lung/tobacco-related cancers) accounting for 50% of cancer deaths in San Francisco. Five Task Forces follow individual logic models designating inputs, outputs, and outcomes. We describe the progress made and the challenges faced by each Task Force after 5 years of activity.

Summary: SF CAN is a model for how the nation's Comprehensive Cancer Centers are ideally positioned to leverage cancer epidemiology for evidence-based initiatives that, along with genuine community engagement and multiple stakeholders, can reduce the population burden of cancer.

Keywords: Cancer disparities; Cancer epidemiology; Collective impact; Community engagement; Implementation science; Population health.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Age-adjusted cancer incidence rates by race/ethnicity and sex in San Francisco
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Maps from California Health Maps highlighting highest incidence rates for breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers by neighborhood in San Francisco, 2014–2018

References

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