This qualitative research aimed to describe important components of community based approaches of cancer prevention from working experiences of accredited health professionals in Thai rural communities.

 Methods: Data were collected from 23 communities with 23 accredited health professionals as key participants using in-depth interview and focus group discussions (FGDs) in each community. Other informants were community leaders, community health volunteers and community people. Content analysis was applied for data analysis.

 Results: Community-based approaches for cancer prevention from the experiences of accredited health professionals were composed of 2 themes: approaches for community-based cancer prevention and methods for cancer-based prevention in the community. The approaches for community-based cancer prevention was composed of 4 components: 1) primary prevention focusing on health education; 2) secondary prevention include: life style modification, vaccination, advocacy of cancer screening, early detection, and prompt refer; 3) tertiary prevention focusing on primary care, and 4) research collaboration focusing on networking. Methods for cancer-based prevention in the community were different based on types of cancer. The 3 factors determined to be associated with community based approaches for cancer prevention were: 1) primary care policy; 2) hometown workplace; and 3) health practice skill.

 Conclusion: Community-based approaches for cancer prevention should concentrate on building a literate community involvement to empower both health care providers and residents. From our evidence, dedicated community associates health professionals have a major role to play.