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FSM Comprehensive Cancer Control and Prevention Plan rolls out at Cancer Day celebration

Palikir, Pohnpei (FSM Information Services): February 5, 2013 - The FSM National Cancer Coalition rolled out the updated five year plan for the year 2013 to 2018 during the Cancer Day commemoration in Palikir on February 4.

The activity took place on a basketball court behind the Transnational Crime Unit facility at the FSM National Government compound.

According to Mr. X-ner Luther, National Comprehensive Cancer Control and Prevention (NCCCP) Program coordinator, the cancer program was put in place in 2005. Cancer coalitions were formed in each of the 5 jurisdictions (National and the 4 states), which subsequently developed cancer control and prevention plans. In 2007, the plans came into effect with the jurisdictions implementing their own plans separately.

With the updated plan, the five separate plans are now integrated with each jurisdiction carrying out their specific activities. The national specific activities include the coordination and monitoring of program activities, setting standards, and performance evaluation. Although the state cancer coalition groups manage their own affairs separately, the plan links concerted efforts by all players in a networking arrangement to strengthen impacts. This is done through the Cancer Control Steering Committee.

The renewed plan was endorsed by President Mori the morning of February 4 and will be available to the public when printing packaging is completed.

Activities for the day under the theme "Increasing Knowledge and Dismissing Misconceptions about Cancer" included a survey or participants' general knowledge of cancer in the FSM, showcasing of healthy nutritious snacks, basic aerobic exercise demo and a fun walk around the compound.

The event was attended by the chairman of the National Cancer Coalition, Mr. Waguk, Acting Chief of National Police Mr. Johnny Santos, Dr. Mayleen Ekiek and Mr. Kippier Lippwe, Non-Communicable Disease Program Coordinator who spoke on behalf of Secretary Vita A. Skilling. Several staff from the various departments and offices at the National Government took part in all the events.

Inquiries about and request for the plan should be directed to Mr. Luther at XLuther@fsmhealth.fm.