Patrick Traynor, Health and Human Services Interim Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Patrick Traynor, Health and Human Services Interim Commissioner | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS), along with partner organizations, has released the 2025-2035 Cancer Control Plan. The plan aims to reduce cancer deaths in the state by focusing on prevention, early screening, and improving the quality of life for those living with cancer.
Cancer remains a significant health issue in North Dakota, ranking as the second leading cause of death. On average, 11 residents are diagnosed with cancer each day, and four die from the disease daily. HHS believes these numbers can be reduced through public education about healthier lifestyles, increased awareness about cancer risks, and improved access to screenings and treatment.
“We encourage North Dakotans to reach out to their health care provider to talk about cancer screenings,” said HHS Comprehensive Cancer Control Program Director Annette Clark. “Early screening and detection save lives.”
To support this effort, HHS works with community partners to provide breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer screenings for uninsured or underinsured individuals who qualify. More information is available at hhs.nd.gov/health/community/comp-cancer.
The state's Medicaid program covers both cancer screening and treatment services for members. Uninsured residents can find more details or apply at hhs.nd.gov/healthcare/medicaid.
Clark also emphasized that lifestyle changes can help lower the risk of developing cancer. She advised maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption, eating nutrient-rich foods such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables while limiting red and processed meats.
HHS collaborates with local public health units across North Dakota to offer additional resources that promote healthier living. These include free counseling for tobacco and nicotine dependence as well as nutrition education at many local public health offices (hhs.nd.gov/local-public-healthsites). NDQuits provides web-based or phone support for quitting commercial tobacco products including cigarettes and vaping devices; people seeking individualized help can call 800-QUIT-NOW or 800-784-8669.
Programs like SNAP and WIC are also available through HHS to assist eligible low-income individuals or families in accessing healthy foods (hhs.nd.gov/food-programs).
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