New ICCP paper explores governance in National Cancer Control Plans

Based on a global review of 98 NCCPs conducted in 2023, the paper analyses governance using a 95‑question assessment tool aligned with the Health Policy Triangle (HPT) framework. This approach examines four components: content, context, actors, and mechanisms, to understand how governance is defined and reflected during NCCP development and implementation.

The study highlights strengths, including the meaningful involvement of key actors, such as Ministries of Health, and the presence of clear governance mechanisms, including information on bodies responsible for implementing national plans. However, it also finds that global cancer control targets and initiatives are often insufficiently addressed in NCCPs.

Overall, governance scores were low, with variation across WHO regions and country income groups. Countries in the WHO African Region and low‑income settings achieved the highest scores, pointing to promising governance practices that could inform future guidance. By applying the HPT framework, this paper offers a structured way to assess governance within NCCPs and contributes to the growing evidence base needed to strengthen future cancer control planning and implementation efforts.

The paper is available here.