The World Health Organization estimates that 7.6 million people died of cancer in 2005 and 84 million people will die in the next 10 years if action is not taken. More than 70% of all cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where resources available for prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer are limited or nonexistent. This first module, Planning, gives programme managers essential practical guidance on the necessary steps for developing an effective cancer control plan. The module shows how to create a cancer control plan that responds to the needs of the people, is based on evidence, and ensures that limited resources are used in an effi cient and equitable way. Planning offers practical step-by-step advice for developing a cancer control plan. The module takes users through an assessment of their current country situation, then helps them set up realistic priorities that can be implemented in a stepwise manner. Throughout the text, links are provided to more detailed WHO resources.