The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has introduced new resources focused on breast cancer treatment and genetic risk assessment as part of its expanding NCCN Guidelines Navigator. Launched on October 6, 2025, this initiative coincides with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aiming to enhance the accessibility of evidence-based cancer care guidelines.
Initially available in digital format for three cancer types earlier this year, the NCCN Guidelines Navigator now encompasses over a dozen cancer categories. This interactive platform allows healthcare providers to quickly locate and understand the most effective treatment options tailored to individual patients. Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, Chief Executive Officer of NCCN, emphasized the platform’s purpose: “The NCCN Guidelines Navigator enables health care providers to quickly find and understand the best available evidence-based options for treating each individual person.”
Enhanced Features and Accessibility
The NCCN Guidelines Navigator offers a comprehensive selection of content from the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines). These guidelines, recognized as the most frequently updated in the medical field, address various aspects of cancer care, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. The new interactive format features advanced search capabilities and color-coded navigation links, making it easier for users to find pertinent information.
Currently, the Navigator covers cancer types such as breast cancer, colon cancer, and genetic/familial high-risk assessments for breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, among others. Dr. William J. Gradishar, Chair of the NCCN Guidelines Panel for Breast Cancer, noted the significant impact of breast cancer treatment guidelines, which accounted for approximately 10 percent of over 16 million accesses in the past year. He stated, “We’ve seen survival rates improve dramatically thanks to scientific advances that help healthcare providers match the right approach to the right person.”
Future Developments and Patient Empowerment
In addition to its core features, the NCCN Guidelines Navigator integrates NCCN Chemotherapy Order Templates, streamlining the administration of drugs and biologics. This integration aims to enhance patient safety and reduce medication errors, allowing providers to better manage treatment-related side effects. Users can also earn continuing education credits through the NCCN Guidelines in Practice subscription.
The NCCN Guidelines Navigator not only serves healthcare professionals but also provides layperson-friendly resources through the NCCN Guidelines for Patients. These materials help educate patients and caregivers, fostering informed decision-making in cancer care.
Since its initial beta testing phase, the Navigator has recorded over 50,000 accesses and received positive feedback from users. One survey response highlighted its effectiveness, stating, “The NCCN Guidelines Navigator does a great job of making the existing NCCN Guideline searchable and accessible.”
For more information and to explore the growing library of the NCCN Guidelines Navigator, visit NCCN.org/navigator.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers, is dedicated to improving quality, effective, and equitable cancer care. Celebrating 30 years of service, the NCCN continues to set the standard for clinical direction and policy in oncology, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care.
