cancer care continuum
Comprehensive framework describing all phases of cancer-related care from prevention through survivorship or end-of-life care.
Full Definition
The cancer care continuum is a conceptual model that encompasses all phases of cancer-related healthcare delivery, beginning with primary prevention and risk reduction, progressing through screening and early detection, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship care, and when applicable, end-of-life care. This framework emphasizes the interconnected nature of cancer care phases and the importance of care coordination across specialties and settings. In screening contexts, the continuum highlights how screening programs must integrate with diagnostic services, treatment facilities, and long-term follow-up care to ensure that detected cancers receive appropriate management and that survivors receive ongoing surveillance for recurrence.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as compound modifier; maintain as separate words in general usage.
In Context
- "The health system redesigned services to support patients throughout the cancer care continuum." — strategic planning document
- "Screening programs represent the early detection phase of the cancer care continuum." — public health framework