 Comprehensive Cancer Program The New Mexico Department of Health Comprehensive Cancer Program, offers cancer education information and resources to the public and health care providers. The Program’s efforts are guided by the goals and objectives of the 2007 – 2011 New Mexico Cancer Plan. The Plan, which was developed with the participation of more than 150 individuals from across the state, is intended to be used as a guide for people working to address cancer issues statewide. Cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, quality of life, and end-of-life care have improved significantly in recent decades. Nevertheless, cancer is still a major health problem. It is the state’s second leading cause of death and a major cause of illness and suffering. One out of every five deaths in New Mexico is caused by cancer. The New Mexico Cancer Plan addresses six cancer sites. For more information about these types of cancer, click on the links below. Colorectal Cancer, which includes cancers of the colon and rectum, is the second-leading cause of cancer death among men and women in the United States and New Mexico. Deaths from colorectal cancer could be reduced if people over 50 had regular screening tests. Lung Cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men and women in the U.S. and New Mexico. Almost 90% of all cases of lung cancer are caused by tobacco use. Prostate Cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among men in the United States and New Mexico, after lung cancer. Worldwide, African American men have the highest rates of prostate cancer. Skin Cancer includes basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, which are very common – and melanoma, which is less common but more likely to be life-threatening. Sun exposure is the main risk factor for developing skin cancer. For information on breast and cervical cancers, click on the tab above for Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program. For more information about the Comprehensive Cancer Program, please contact: Dorine Conley |
