Welcome
The Asian branch of the International Cancer Patient Coalition (ICPC) recognizes the unique challenges of cancer care in Asia-Pacific, including disparities in access to biomarkers, treatment, and early detection. With a focus on addressing systemic inequities and leveraging regional innovation, we aim to deliver patient-centered solutions that prioritize equity and innovation. Below are our key program priorities tailored to the needs of Asian cancer patients.
Biomarker testing is critical for personalized cancer treatment, yet access across Asia remains inconsistent. Countries like Japan and South Korea have established robust biomarker programs, while others, including India and Southeast Asian nations, face affordability and infrastructure barriers. We advocate for policy frameworks that include subsidized testing programs, regional partnerships to reduce costs, and harmonized standards for biomarker adoption.
Treatment disparities in Asia are stark, with innovative therapies often out of reach for patients in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). For example, while targeted therapies are widely available in Singapore, their cost and accessibility remain prohibitive in other parts of the region. We call for mechanisms like pooled procurement, patient assistance programs, and expanded inclusion of innovative treatments in national insurance schemes to ensure equitable access.
Our Global Cancer Care Equity Index reveals a wide range of scores reflecting the region’s diversity, with Singapore (6.54) and South Korea (6.49) leading in early detection and precision oncology, while countries like India face severe challenges in workforce shortages and healthcare funding.
Late-stage cancer diagnosis is prevalent across Asia due to limited access to screening programs. The success of national initiatives like China’s rural cervical cancer screening program highlights the potential of targeted efforts. We propose scaling up low-cost, community-based screening initiatives and integrating innovative tools such as AI diagnostics and telehealth, particularly in underserved areas.
Digital health and AI have immense potential to transform cancer care in Asia, especially in improving access to early detection and treatment in remote regions. Projects like Thailand’s AI-powered breast cancer screening pilot showcase the promise of such tools. We advocate for investment in digital health infrastructure, capacity building, and ethical frameworks to ensure responsible use of these technologies.
Asia faces a critical shortage of trained oncology professionals, particularly in rural and LMIC regions. Initiatives like India’s eCancer programs, which use digital platforms to train healthcare workers, serve as effective models. We support expanding regional training programs and deploying telemedicine to bridge workforce gaps.
Participation in clinical trials is essential for access to innovative therapies but remains limited in many Asian countries. The lack of infrastructure and awareness are major barriers. We advocate for region-wide collaborations to standardize trial protocols, establish trial networks, and increase patient awareness of available opportunities.
The socio-economic diversity across Asia necessitates tailored approaches to cancer care. We emphasize fostering collaborations among governments, NGOs, and the private sector to address inequities. Successful examples, like the ASEAN Cancer Stakeholder Forum, demonstrate the impact of collective action in improving outcomes.
By focusing on these program priorities, we aim to address systemic challenges in cancer care, bring innovations closer to patients, and ensure equitable access to high-quality care across Asia.
