Cancer has a wide reach in Colorado. It impacts the health, stability, and daily lives of people and communities across our state — whether in large cities, small towns, or rural areas. As Colorado continues to change, so do the ways we prevent cancer and support those affected by it. This is why the 2026–2030 Colorado Cancer Plan was created: to address these evolving needs and guide our work in the years ahead.

The Plan builds on decades of teamwork, innovation, and scientific progress. It reflects the insights and experiences of survivors, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, community groups, local public health agencies, and statewide partners. Their contributions shaped the goals within this Plan — from reducing tobacco use and improving access to prevention and screening, to strengthening treatment systems and supporting the mental, emotional, and financial well-being of people affected by cancer. Thank you to everyone who contributed time, expertise, and passion. Your leadership defines what’s possible, and it will continue to drive this work forward.

The Plan highlights several key truths:

• Prevention is our best tool, yet many people still face significant barriers to safe opportunities to be active, nutritious foods, and access to healthcare.
• Clinical interventions are advancing, from genetic risk assessments to new vaccines and early detection technologies. It’s vital that all Coloradans benefit from these advancements.
• Environmental factors, such as radon and air quality, continue to affect cancer risk and disproportionately impact certain communities.
• Survivorship is growing, and people need support beyond diagnosis — support that addresses their full — and often complex — physical, mental, emotional, and financial needs.
• Lastly, promoting health equity must be a priority. The Colorado Cancer Plan aims to break down structural barriers and support historically underserved communities.

No single organization can accomplish this work alone. As the administrative home for the Colorado Cancer Coalition, Trailhead Institute is committed to supporting the partnerships and coordination needed to put this Plan into action. Together, we will build strong connections, lift up community voices, and support the statewide network working toward these goals.

Colorado faces a significant cancer burden, and this Plan outlines the actions we can take — together — to reduce it. I invite partners across every sector, and Coloradans in every community, to join us in this work. By acting collectively, we can build a future where cancer is prevented whenever possible, detected early, treated with high-quality and equitable care, and where survivorship is supported at every stage.

Michele Shimomura, Trailhead Institute, President and Executive Director