CANCER
Cancer is a collection of related diseases in which some body cells divide without stopping and spread into surrounding tissues. Certain cancerous growths are called tumors.
CDC funds NACDD to address the issue of cancer prevention and control in the public health arena. Project activities range from monitoring the impact of changes in the healthcare system to looking into more effective communications for cancer patients post diagnosis. The NACDD Cancer Council meets regularly and provides training and professional development opportunities for staff in CDC-funded cancer programs in State Health Departments.
Working with Kognito, a health simulation company, and Westat, a research and analysis firm, NACDD is exploring innovative ways for healthcare providers to communicate complex health information about early onset breast cancer and breast health to women younger than 45 years of age who are making decisions about their care. The objective is development of two role-play conversations with virtual humans, one for providers for educational purposes and another for women under 45 years of age who have questions about their risk factors for breast cancer.