Experts publish review of National Cancer Control Plans
Progress on early detection and advancements in financing all feature within the document.
Yesterday, Monday 16th December, the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) issued a global review of National Cancer Control Plans (NCCPs), following its original publication in 2018.
The review aims to update global knowledge on the status and content of these plans, including the impact the COVID-19 pandemic had.
Created in partnership with the International Cancer Control Partnership, the review analysed 156 national cancer and non-communicable disease plans and spanned countries across various income levels.
The study’s key findings include:
- The inclusion of financing strategies in NCCPs has risen from 7% in 2018 to 27% in 2023, underscoring the growing recognition of the need for funded strategies to effectively combat cancer.
- Progress has been noted with the integration of NCCPs, with a number of plans now featuring clear targets and timelines adhering to the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound).
- While 90% of plans include strategies for early detection of breast and cervical cancer, only 50% include radiotherapy strategies and a mere 26% reference the World Health Organisation’s Lists of Essential Medicines.
- The study also outlines that 23% of NCCPs and 12% of NCD plans included a reference to evidence-based recommendations, including a critical area for improvement.
‘The advancements in early detection and treatment strategies as well as a greater inclusion of financing strategies, from 7% in 2018 to 27% in 2023, are particularly commendable,’ said Cary Adams CEO of UICC. ‘The fact that nearly 75% of plans, however, still do not include strategies to fund the cancer control ambition is disappointing.’
‘The progress in the number of detailed and well-coordinated plans is also encouraging because they include clear targets and timelines, which should lead in time to better outcomes in cancer control efforts. The gaps in accessing essential medicines and treatments, on the other hand, remain a global concern and show the need for continued international collaboration,’ Cary continued.
Looking ahead, experts involved in the study have offered suggestions about how cancer control plans could be strengthened. Some ideas include securing adequate financing and improving the link between screening, early detection and timely treatment access.
Lisa Stevens, co-author and director of the division of programme of the lifesaving technology, said: ‘Only about 10% of cancer patients in low-income countries have access to radiotherapy, compared to 90% in high-income countries, with approximately 20 out of 54 countries in Africa lacking any radiotherapy facilities.
‘The integration of radiotherapy into cancer control strategies is more crucial than ever. This review highlights both the progress made and the gaps that persist, particularly in access to this lifesaving technology.’
The findings from the study are set to be presented at the Cancer Planners Forum which is taking place in May 2025 in Geneva. Until then, the full study can be accessed here.
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