The World Health Organization (WHO) has been at the forefront of addressing the growing global cancer burden. In 2017, the WHO Cancer Resolution (WHA70.12) was passed, emphasizing the need for governments and international organizations to prioritize cancer prevention and control. This resolution is a significant milestone in global cancer control, as it recognizes the importance of timely access to cancer treatment and care for all individuals, regardless of their circumstances or geographic location.
The WHO Cancer Resolution outlines several key priorities for global cancer control. These include:
1. Universal Health Coverage (UHC): Ensuring that all people have access to optimal cancer care, regardless of their income or geographic location. This is a fundamental human right, as stated in the 1948 United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights.
2. Integrated Approach: Combining cancer prevention and control with other health initiatives to maximize impact and efficiency. This approach recognizes that cancer is not a single disease but rather a multitude of diseases that require specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
3. Addressing Inequalities: Reducing disparities in access to cancer care by addressing the specific needs of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This includes addressing the high burden of communicable diseases such as hepatitis B and human papilloma virus (HPV) in LMICs.
4. Strategic Investments: Making strategic investments in cancer control to maximize impact and efficiency. This includes investing in research, training, and infrastructure to support the development and implementation of effective cancer control programs.
The WHO has also set specific targets for reducing the global cancer burden. For example, the goal is to reduce breast cancer mortality by 2.5% per year, aiming to avert 2.5 million breast cancer deaths globally by 2040.
To achieve these goals, the WHO is working closely with governments, international organizations, and civil society. This includes developing and implementing cancer control programs, providing technical guidance and support, and promoting partnerships and collaborations to leverage resources and expertise.
In summary, the WHO's directives and priorities in global cancer control emphasize the need for a comprehensive and integrated approach to address the growing cancer burden. By prioritizing universal health coverage, addressing inequalities, and making strategic investments, the WHO aims to reduce the global cancer burden and ensure that all individuals have access to timely and effective cancer care.
References:
World Health Organization. (2017). WHO Cancer Resolution (WHA70.12).
World Health Organization. (2017). WHO Cancer Resolution (WHA70.12): Implementation Plan.
World Health Organization. (2017). WHO Cancer Resolution (WHA70.12): Targets and Indicators.
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