National cancer control plans in ANCCA member countries: advancing a pan-Asian cancer initiative
Asia, home to nearly 60% of the global population, carries a significant share of the global cancer burden, necessitating effective control strategies. The recent article "National cancer control plans in ANCCA member countries: advancing a pan-Asian cancer initiative" published in the Lancet Global Health by Gatellier et al. explores the current status of NCCPs in 21 Asian National Cancer Centers Alliance countries. Considerable variation was observed, ranging from comprehensive NCCPs to broader non-communicable disease plans or the absence of any plan. Over 90% of plans addressed primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention or treatment. Air pollution, a major and increasing cancer risk factor, was included in only 43% of plans, mostly in middle-income countries. Treatment protocols were present in 91% of plans, while end-of-life care appeared in 48%. Stakeholder involvement was noted in 86% of plans, whereas legal and evaluation mechanisms were each included in 57%. Equitable cancer control requires locally adapted, comprehensive strategies spanning the care continuum, supported by robust legal and financial governance and strengthened regional collaboration.