Archives: Glossary
A broad approach to reducing the impact of cancer on people and communities. It includes preventing cancer where possible, finding it early, improving treatment and supporting people after a cancer diagnosis.
A healthcare approach based on four ideas: predictive, preventive, personalised and participatory. In cancer, this means using better information to predict risk, prevent disease where possible, tailor care to the individual and support people to be active partners in their health.
Actions taken to help prevent cancer from developing in the first place. This can include reducing exposure to things that increase cancer risk, changing behaviours that can lead to cancer, or increasing protection against cancer. Examples include quitting smoking, vaccination, sun protection, healthy eating and regular physical activity.
Actions taken to find cancer or precancerous changes early and reduce their impact. This usually means detecting and treating disease as soon as possible, before it progresses or causes symptoms. Examples include bowel, breast, cervical and lung cancer screening programs.
Actions taken after cancer has been diagnosed to reduce its ongoing impact and help people live as well as possible. This can include treatment, rehabilitation, supportive care, symptom management and survivorship care.
A difference in health outcomes between population groups. Health disparities can be influenced by social, environmental, economic, cultural and healthcare factors.Underserved populations: Groups of people who may have poorer access to healthcare, prevention, screening or support services, and may experience poorer health outcomes as a result.
The overall impact of cancer on individuals, families, communities and the health system. This can include cancer diagnoses, deaths, illness, treatment effects, healthcare costs and quality of life.
The health of groups of people, including the patterns of disease, wellbeing and outcomes across different populations.
The principle that everyone should have a fair opportunity to achieve their best possible health, regardless of their circumstances, background or where they live.
The detection of a cancer that would not have caused symptoms or harm during a person’s lifetime. Overdiagnosis can lead to extra tests or treatment that may not have been needed.