What is it? 
An opportunity to join together in the fight against cancer.  Arkansas ranks 16th in cancer mortality rates among the 50 states and the District of Columbia.  We are learning to work toward an integrated and coordinated approach to reduce the incidence, morbidity and mortality of cancer through prevention, early detection, treatment, rehabilitation and palliation.  This is Arkansas’ third annual comprehensive cancer control conference.

Where is it?
The Summit will be held at the ALLTEL Arena, 312 Main Street, North Little Rock, AR 72114, on Thursday, September 26, 2002.  The conference begins at 8:00 am and ends with a reception at 4:30 pm.
 

Why is it important?
What is comprehensive cancer control?  It is an integrated and coordinated approach to reducing cancer.  It comes from the recognition that effective cancer prevention and control activities should address a range of services from prevention and early detection through effective treatment, quality care and end-of-life issues, such as pain relief.  Comprehensive cancer control also emphasizes the integration of many disciplines.  Gaps in service delivery and coverage exist in some areas and overlap exists in others.  Only a committed group of partners - organizations and individuals - working together, can gather evidence, develop priorities, plan the work, and implement the plan to overcome the obstacles causing these discrepancies.

Two years ago, at the first Arkansas Cancer Summit, a dedicated group of Arkansas health professionals, cancer stakeholders and citizens committed to do what had never before been done in this state - plan and write a document which would direct comprehensive work in cancer control.  One year ago, the Arkansas Cancer Plan was published and presented to Summit II participants with the promise that the work would not stop and that implementation of the plan would begin immediately.

Now is the time to report the progress made to date.  Many in the cancer control community in the state have genuine optimism about advances in cancer control.  Measurable progress has been made and the future is promising.  The Arkansas Cancer Coalition invites you aboard to hear about the progress made and travel to a place in this promising future - to understand what things will be like in Arkansas if we continue this important work.

Join us for the Arkansas Cancer Summit III and help celebrate the successes of individuals and organizations that are making a difference.  Take the opportunity and help provide direction for future activities through your education and experience.  Come and help us "Make the Connection" to a brighter, healthier future for Arkansas.

Conference Sponsors
American Cancer Society
Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Arkansas Department of Health
Arkansas Breast & Cervical Cancer Control Program
Center for Disease Control & Prevention
Arkansas Cancer Research Center

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