The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has released A Statewide Call to Action to Reduce Cancer in North Carolina: 2025-2030 North Carolina Cancer Plan to address the complex factors and impacts of cancer that affect North Carolinians. It emphasizes reducing disparities among underserved and rural communities that experience higher rates of cancer, disability and death.
“The Cancer Plan is a vital tool in our fight against cancer,” said Dr. Lawrence Greenblatt, State Health Director and Chief Medical Officer at NCDHHS. “It outlines clear strategies to reduce risk, improve early detection, and expand access to care. We urge communities across the state to use this plan to help save lives.”
The action plan focuses on six cancers that have the greatest impact on North Carolinians: lung, female breast, prostate, colorectal, melanoma skin and HPV-related cancers. Each section highlights data-driven objectives and interventions addressing prevention, risk reduction, screening, treatment and survivorship.
The plan’s goals are to:
- Reduce cancer risks by supporting healthy behaviors for all North Carolinians;
- Increase cancer screening and early detection of cancer;
- Improve access to quality cancer treatment, enhance care coordination and increase supportive care; and
- Improve the knowledge and understanding of cancer, cancer care and the relationship between cancer and other chronic diseases among health care professionals and the public.
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in North Carolina, but its impact is not felt equally. Rural residents and communities of color continue to experience higher incidence and mortality rates. Social and environmental factors — such as access to nutritious food, safe housing, health care services and preventive resources — play a major role in these discrepancies.
“Every North Carolinian deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life,” said Dr. Kimberly McDonald, Chief of the Chronic Disease and Injury Section at NCDHHS. “That means investing in the conditions that drive health — like access to nutritious food and preventive care. The Cancer Plan supports this vision by promoting screenings, vaccinations and other early interventions that can prevent illness and save lives.”
In response to these challenges, the plan addresses the need for more prevention efforts, increased screening and treatment opportunities that are easily accessible and affordable. The unique nature of North Carolina’s rural and underserved communities is reflected in the plan’s strategies, which are based on the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommended evidence-based interventions.
The NC Cancer Action Plan was developed through the NCDHHS Division of Public Health’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program and Cancer Prevention and Control Branch in partnership with the North Carolina Advisory Committee on Cancer Coordination and Control and the NC Cancer Leadership Team.
“Cancer touches nearly every family in North Carolina, and the burden on our communities is profound,” said Dr. Vickie Fowler, Chair of the NC ACCCC. “The Cancer Plan is more than a document; it’s a call to action. It reflects our shared commitment to prevention, early detection, access to care, and survivor support. We urge healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates and community members to join us in building a healthier future.”
To learn more, read the full 2025-2030 North Carolina Cancer Plan or visit dph.ncdhhs.gov/cancer. Additional information and resources are also available through the NC Comprehensive Cancer Control Program Resource Hub.