Measuring Program Outcomes and Impact
There are many methods and sources to measure the impact of cancer control efforts. Collecting surveillance data on factors such as behaviors, attitudes and deaths monitors trends in large populations over time. Other sources of data such as document reviews; program participant records; and interview, survey and focus group responses can measure changes in outcomes at the community level or in small populations.
Several sources of surveillance data are used to see if cancer trends are rising or falling in New Mexico. The New Mexico Tumor Registry is the major source of statewide data on cancer incidence, stage at diagnosis and relative survival. The New Mexico Department of Health Office of Vital Records and Health Statistics collects data on cancer deaths. Data on cancer risk factors is collected and analyzed by the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a telephone survey funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that is conducted in all 50 states.
In 2010, the New Mexico Department of Health added questions about cancer survivorship to the BRFSS telephone survey. Responses to these questions will provide information about issues and trends related to New Mexico’s cancer survivors. (Click here for more information on quality of life for cancer survivors and caregivers.)
In addition, the Comprehensive Cancer Program partners with the New Mexico Cancer Council to survey its members annually on progress made towards implementation of the goals and objectives of the New Mexico Cancer Plan. Click here for past New Mexico Cancer Council survey reports.
Collecting data at the national, state and local level can provide stakeholders with a more comprehensive picture of the status of cancer in a certain population. Decision-makers use this information to evaluate trends in cancer control over time, so they can provide services in areas where they can have the most impact.
Other evaluation resources:
