he American Cancer Society, the Cancer Research Center of Hawai`i, University of Hawai`i and the Hawai`i Department of Health are pleased to present the first-ever Hawai`i Cancer Facts & Figures. This partnership publication was developed to assist healthcare organizations, health professionals, community groups, and others who are working to reduce the cancer burden in Hawai`i. It may also be of interest to policy-makers, advocates, and news organizations who seek detailed, easy-toread information about the burden of cancer in Hawai`i. The challenge of cancer is clear. It is the second leading cause of death in the state and nation. Thousands of families in Hawai`i are affected each year. Progress and hope, however, are also evident. For the first time in history, we see a sustained decline in overall age-adjusted cancer mortality rates in the U.S. As for hope, in addition to the striking advances in research and treatment, much can be accomplished at the state level and in local communities to save lives, decrease cancer incidence and mortality rates, and improve the quality of life for all cancer survivors. Even as we are encouraged by the progress already achieved, we are mindful that much work remains to be done. It will require collaboration of many organizations such as ours along with many community partners and volunteers to achieve this ambitious goal, and to improve the quality of life for all those touched by cancer. The American Cancer Society, the Cancer Research Center of Hawai`i, the Hawai`i Department of Health, and other partners are committed to reducing the burden of cancer in our state. Providing accurate, unbiased information is a critical responsibility. We are therefore pleased that Hawai`i Cancer Facts & Figures affirms the spirit of collaboration between our organizations. This document, created by public health officials and partners, is primarily intended to serve the public. We hope you find Hawai`i Cancer Facts & Figures a useful tool in planning and implementing collaborative programs aimed at reducing the burden of cancer in Hawai`i.
