The International Cancer Policy Collaborative (ICPC) has launched a comprehensive initiative to address global disparities in cancer care. The Global Framework for Equitable Cancer Care establishes a structured approach and introduces the Cancer Care Equity Index, providing policymakers with evidence-based insights to enhance access and improve outcomes across key cancer types, including melanoma, breast, lung, colorectal, cervical, prostate, and rare cancers.
Objective and Scope
This framework aims to mitigate inequities by engaging stakeholders at regional and international levels, with a particular emphasis on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and high-income regions such as G20 member states. By fostering collaboration and aligning diverse stakeholders, the initiative drives systemic improvements to ensure equitable access to cancer care, especially in underserved communities.
Core Pillars
The framework is built upon six fundamental pillars:
- Cancer Policy Context: Evaluates existing regulatory frameworks and policies for cancer management.
- Access to Cancer Care: Assesses service availability, early detection programs, and treatment affordability.
- Health System Characteristics: Analyzes healthcare workforce, infrastructure, and system resilience.
- Cancer Burden and Socioeconomic Impact: Examines the economic and social consequences of cancer in focus regions.
- Environmental and Lifestyle Risk Factors: Reviews the influence of lifestyle and environmental conditions on cancer prevalence.
- Innovative Diagnostics: Explores the role of digital pathology, AI, and molecular diagnostics in enhancing cancer detection and management.
Implementation and Outcomes
The framework facilitates the creation of region-specific policy briefs, action plans, and the Global Cancer Care Assessment Report. These tools empower governments to implement data-driven policies that address gaps in cancer care. Additionally, capacity-building workshops and campaigns for early detection support the initiative’s goals.
You can explore our current findings through the interactive slider below, which highlights region-specific insights into disparities in cancer care delivery.
Significance
By providing a standardized methodology for assessing cancer care equity, this framework enables meaningful comparisons across regions and identifies best practices. It serves as a catalyst for evidence-based policy reforms, fostering international collaboration and driving improvements in cancer care delivery, particularly in resource-limited settings.
The Global Framework for Equitable Cancer Care represents a significant step towards reducing global disparities in oncology, aligning with broader efforts to achieve universal health coverage and improve cancer outcomes worldwide.
Get involved
Contribute to data collection, participate in workshops, or use the Cancer Care Equity Index to implement impactful local interventions. For more information, contact Anđela Škarpa at andela.skarpa@unite4cancer.com.
