Cancer ranks second only to heart disease as a leading cause of death in the United States, making it a tremendous burden in years of life lost, patient suffering, and economic costs. Fulfilling the Potential for Cancer Prevention and Early Detection reviews the proof that we can dramatically reduce cancer rates. The National Cancer Policy Board, part of the Institute of Medicine, outlines a national strategy to realize the promise of cancer prevention and early detection, including specific and wide-ranging recommendations. Offering a wealth of information and directly addressing major controversies, the book includes: A detailed look at how significantly cancer could be reduced through lifestyle changes, evaluating approaches used to alter eating, smoking, and exercise habits. An analysis of the intuitive notion that screening for cancer leads to improved health outcomes, including a discussion of screening methods, potential risks, and current recommendations. An examination of cancer prevention and control opportunities in primary health care delivery settings, including a review of interventions aimed at improving provider performance. Reviews of professional education and training programs, research trends and opportunities, and federal programs that support cancer prevention and early detection. This in-depth volume will be of interest to policy analysts, cancer and public health specialists, health care administrators and providers, researchers, insurers, medical journalists, and patient advocates. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1. Introduction 2. Potential to Reduce the Cancer Burden Through Cancer Prevention and Early Detection 3. Lifestyle Behaviors Contributing to the Burden of Cancer 4. Modifying Health Risk Behaviors 5. Potential of Screening to Reduce the Burden of Cancer 6. Improving Participation in Cancer Screening Programs 7. Adopting New Technology in the Face of Uncertain Science: The Case of Screening for Lung Cancer 8. Professional Education and Training 9. Federal Programs That Support Cancer Prevention and Early Detection 10. Research Trends and Opportunities 11. Findings, Policy Implications, and Recommendations References Glossary Index