NCCN Collaborates with Global Organizations at First International Cancer Control Meeting

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a notable nonprofit alliance consisting of major cancer centers in the United States, is making significant strides in global cancer control. Recently, it joined forces with various cancer organizations worldwide at the inaugural International Cancer Control Planning Forum held from May 14 to 16 in Geneva, Switzerland. This pivotal event marks a dedicated effort to enhance mentorship and support for developing and implementing National Cancer Control Plans (NCCPs).

A Vision for Global Cancer Care

Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, the CEO of NCCN, emphasized the organization's commitment to improving global access to high-quality, patient-centered cancer care. “We strive every day to improve access to high-quality, value-driven, patient-focused oncology care for all people worldwide,” she stated. By attending and sponsoring the Forum, NCCN showcases its dedication to worldwide collaboration against cancer, reinforcing the idea that every nation deserves access to evidence-based cancer care plans.

Focus on Nationwide Strategies

The Cancer Planning Forum is the first of its kind, tailored specifically to educate and support those responsible for the implementation of NCCPs. Organized by The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC)—of which NCCN is a member—and supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the International Cancer Control Partnership (ICCP), the Forum seeks to address existing deficiencies in cancer control strategies globally.

According to a recent study published in Lancet Oncology, which included contributions from over 70 international experts, while there have been advancements in national cancer strategies, significant gaps in funding, access to care, and the integration of evidence-based interventions remain problematic. The Forum aims to tackle these issues by fostering collaboration and ensuring NCCPs are comprehensive, well-funded, and effectively implemented.

Key Themes of Discussion

Among the subjects addressed at the Forum are essential best practices for the development and implementation of NCCPs, advocating for investments in national cancer planning, presenting successful national case studies, emphasizing the role of cancer registries, and discussing how laws and policies impact cancer control effectiveness. This meeting is particularly timely, as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially cancer, have gained prominence in the global health agenda.

Katy Winckworth-Prejsnar, MPH, Global Program Director at NCCN, highlighted the relevance of this forum within the context of upcoming global health meetings. “This historic forum takes place in a crucial year where NCDs, such as cancer, are a focal point on the global health agenda,” she noted, pointing out that other significant meetings like the World Health Assembly and the Fourth High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on NCDs will shape future cancer control strategies.

NCCN’s Global Initiatives

NCCN is well-positioned to contribute its extensive knowledge and resources to this critical initiative. Almost half of the two million registered users of the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines®) are located outside the United States, representing over 190 countries. The global program at NCCN frequently collaborates with local and regional experts to develop cancer care guidelines and resources tailored to the specific needs of different populations. This includes international adaptations of the NCCN Guidelines, the NCCN Framework for Resource Stratification of NCCN Guidelines, and translations of these guidelines for patients and caregivers.

All global cancer resources from NCCN are freely available on NCCN.org and through the Virtual Library of the NCCN Guidelines App. For more information, visit NCCN.org/global.

About NCCN

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®) is a leading nonprofit alliance dedicated to patient care, research, and education in oncology. Through its work, NCCN aims to define and promote effective, equitable, and accessible quality cancer care, enabling people to live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology provide evidence-based recommendations for the treatment, prevention, and supportive care of cancer, serving as the recognized standard for clinical policy in cancer management.