Editorial Policy – Prevention and Cancer Information

The Canadian Cancer Society’s goal is to provide up-to-date and accurate information that is easy to read and understand. We have been providing Canadians with information about cancer since we were first formed in 1938. Today, we offer information in print, online and by telephone.

Our cancer information is reviewed by experts to make sure it is based on evidence and that it reflects clinical practice (that is, how things are done in the healthcare field) in Canada. We are grateful to the many cancer specialists and other health specialists who give their time and expertise to help develop our information about cancer.

Talk to your doctor

The information that we offer is not meant to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare provider. For specific medical advice, diagnoses and treatment, talk to your doctor.

Editorial independence

The Canadian Cancer Society maintains complete editorial independence and operational separation from our corporate supporters. This means that the Society makes decisions about the information we provide without interference from them. None of our health information is altered or edited by our corporate supporters at any time.

Our editorial process

Planning

Ideas for print materials and web pages come from people who use our information, including patients, healthcare professionals, volunteers, partners and staff. We may develop information because of public interest in a topic or because there are new developments that influence current practice. Research findings and advocacy opportunities that will have an impact on cancer control may also lead to the development of information.

Writing and review

The writing and review process is coordinated by staff according to a schedule. Staff work with writers and subject experts to develop content.

Subject experts (for example, oncologists, other healthcare professionals or researchers) review content for accuracy and credibility, and to make sure it reflects current Canadian clinical practice.

Internal experts and editors check and approve all content.

Updating

All cancer information is reviewed regularly:

Web pages on the Canada-wide site are reviewed and updated every 12 to 18 months. If the evidence changes, these pages are updated before the next review.
Print materials in English and French are reviewed every year before they are re-printed. All print materials include our toll-free phone number and e-mail address so that people can contact us to check for the most up-to-date information.
Canadian Cancer Encyclopedia chapters are revised and updated every 3 to 4 years. If the evidence changes, pages in the encyclopedia are updated before the next review.

Corrections and improvements

The Society aims to provide information that is as accurate and clear as possible. Any feedback received about our print or web information is kept on file for consideration when the text is revised. After editorial review, changes that improve clarity or accuracy are made as quickly as possible.

Last modified on: 29 July 2010