A local doctor is crediting earlier detection and improved treatment for a decline in cancer deaths.
A national report shows the rate dropped 2.2 percent in 2017. That’s the largest decline in recorded history.
The death rate is down 29 percent since 1991.
Dr. Anthony Phillips is ThedaCare’s director of oncology, and he says screening certainly plays a role in detecting the four cancers — breast, lung, prostate and colon.
ThedaCare is sharing a nearly $16 million grant for research into cancer, and treatment options, with two other hospitals in Wisconsin.
