The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) today announced the release of the 2018 Texas Cancer Plan (“Plan”), a guide outlining actionable, achievable goals, objectives and strategies to reduce the burden of cancer for communities and individuals across Texas.
“Since its creation in 2007, CPRIT has helped make great strides in our fight against cancer, providing access to cancer prevention services for millions of Texans who have never had them before, and investing $2.15 billion in cancer prevention and research programs to reduce the cancer burden,” said Wayne Roberts, CPRIT CEO. “The Texas Cancer Plan is a road map in ongoing efforts to eradicate cancer and it sets goals for what Texans can accomplish when we set our minds to the betterment of our communities and our state.”
Cancer is the leading cause of death among Texans under the age of 85. In 2018, it is estimated that more than 121,460 Texans will be diagnosed with cancer, and approximately 44,700 Texans are expected to lose their lives to cancer. While these statistics are startling, the news is not all somber.
The Plan identifies five high priority areas, each poised to have a significant impact on cancer:
- Decrease tobacco and electronic vapor product use and exposure to second hand smoke
- Increase vaccination rates for HPV and Hepatitis B
- Reduce cancer risk by promoting healthy lifestyles
- Reduce cancer health disparities
- Increase cancer survivor supportive care
It also reflects changes, progress and advances in cancer prevention and control since the last revision in 2012. By state statute, CPRIT is charged with the development of the Texas Cancer Plan but achieving its goals continues to depend on the collaboration and resources of many stakeholders across Texas.
Dr. Rebecca Garcia, CPRIT’s chief prevention and communications officer said, “We may not have all the answers for ending cancer today, but there are many things we can do right now to reduce its impact or prevent it altogether. The 2018 Plan makes it clear; progress in the fight against cancer depends on all Texans.”
To access the 2018 Texas Cancer Plan, visit www.texascancerplan.org
About the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas
To date, CPRIT has awarded $2.15 billion in grants to Texas researchers, institutions and organizations. CPRIT provides funding through its academic research, prevention, and product development research programs. Programs made possible with CPRIT funding have reached Texans from all 254 counties of the state, brought 159 distinguished researchers to Texas, advanced scientific and clinical knowledge, and provided more than 4.7 million life-saving education, training, prevention and early detection services to Texans. Learn more at cprit.texas.gov. Follow CPRIT at twitter.com/CPRITTexas and facebook.com/CPRITTexas.