cancer

Are recommended screenings being utilized, survivors living well longer, deaths from cancer decreasing?

Cancer is a chronic disease affecting thousands of Vermonters. Cancer Registry data are used to monitor efforts to reduce the burden of cancers among all Vermonters. We collect information about all cancers, except certain skin and non-invasive cervical cancers, and all benign brain-related tumors that are diagnosed in Vermont. It is part of a statewide effort to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals, families and communities.

The Center for Health Statistics conducts surveillance of cancer among Vermonters and creates data products to assist in making data driven decisions for cancer prevention and control.

Many Vermont public health map atlases and dashboard-styled reports are available on a per-topic basis. These atlases and reports also allow viewers to download data in commonly used formats.

Cancer is the leading cause of death in Vermont. Each year more than 3,600 Vermonters are diagnosed with some form of cancer.

The 2016-2020 Vermont Cancer Plan is our state's road map for addressing the burden of cancer over the next five years.

A cancer survivor is anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer, from the time of diagnosis through the rest of their life.

Once cancer is diagnosed, prompt and thorough medical treatment and complementary care are essential to prolonging a patient’s life, decreasing side effects and improving quality of life.

Early detection of cancer in people without symptoms (also called screening) can help to find and treat cancer early, leading to better outcomes. Promoting nationally recognized screening tests is a priority for the Vermont Department of Health.

All Vermont adults should discuss cancer prevention, screening and early detection with their health care provider. This type of discussion can help idividuals better understand their risk for developing cancer, and decide what tests are most appropriate based on their specific family and health history.

Cancer develops gradually as a result of many different factors related to lifestyle choices, environment and genetics. Anyone can develop cancer, but many cancers can be prevented.