In the four-step model for cancer control, what is the first step?

• A. Share this information with community organizations so they can target the areas and populations most in need and plan appropriate intervention strategies
• B. Identify the burden of cancer in geographic areas and by characteristics of person (measure)
• C. Implement the intervention plan
• D. Measure whether the desired changes occurred

Answer: (B)

The first step in this four-step cancer control model is to quantify and map the burden of cancer. You start by identifying how cancer affects different geographic areas and various population groups—measuring incidence, mortality, prevalence, and risk factors. This measurement creates a clear picture of where the highest needs are and who is most affected, which is essential for prioritizing actions and guiding subsequent decisions.

Why this fits before anything else: you can’t effectively target interventions or allocate limited resources without knowing the extent and distribution of the problem. Having a solid measure ensures that planning, resource mobilization, and outreach are directed to the areas and groups most in need.

Disseminating information to community organizations, implementing the intervention plan, and evaluating outcomes all rely on having this baseline measure. Sharing data without a known burden would be premature, and acting or evaluating without first understanding the scope would risk misallocation and missed impact.