NCCN Participates in Symposium to Enhance Cancer Treatment Across the MENA Region

Enhancing Cancer Care in the MENA Region: A Collaborative Effort

On January 10, 2025, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®)—a notable not-for-profit organization focused on advancing cancer treatment—gathered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for a pivotal two-day symposium. This meeting, hosted at the MENA-NCCN Regional Coordinating Center, served as a platform for oncology professionals from the Middle East and North Africa region to come together and refine treatment protocols. The event underscores NCCN's ongoing commitment to adapt global cancer care standards to better suit regional needs.

Supporting this initiative is the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, which has collaborated closely with NCCN since 2014, ensuring that quality guidelines are both adapted and disseminated among local healthcare professionals. Dr. Kanan Al Shammari, director of the coordinating center, highlighted the importance of merging global cancer care guidelines with the expertise found within the MENA region, in order to provide equitable and effective treatment outcomes.

During the symposium, participants delved into the latest updates on the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology, which have been tailored specifically for the MENA region. These discussions centered on various types of cancer, including blood cancers, breast cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, and considerations related to genetic and hereditary risks. The agenda also included topics relevant to palliative care, enhancing the overall quality of patient life despite the challenges of cancer treatment.

Dr. Al Shammari stated, "This gathering represents an important opportunity to integrate global cancer care standards with local expertise. Our goal is to ensure that individuals in the MENA region receive the best possible care, grounded in evidence-based practices."

The NCCN Guidelines MENA Editions, which are freely available on the NCCN's global website, serve as a vital resource. They not only provide up-to-date treatment recommendations but also empower local oncologists by offering color-coded guidance. This innovative format highlights current global recommendations while allowing for feasible modifications based on regional circumstances. Approaches that may not be practical are indicated with a grey strikethrough, ensuring clarity for health care providers.

Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, CEO of NCCN, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to partnering with regional cancer care experts. Denlinger noted that the NCCN has produced over a dozen guidelines pertinent to MENA region cancer treatment, covering approximately 65% of all adult cancer incidences. Such resources, totaling over 2,000 pages of clinical guidelines, are systematically updated every two years, reflecting the latest advancements and insights in oncology.

At this symposium, professionals also shared success stories and explored the ongoing challenges faced by cancer patients in the region. Key discussions included expanding access to innovative therapies and enhancing scientific communication among medical practitioners.

Furthermore, the NCCN’s initiatives include translating their guidelines into more than 50 languages, with the aim of making critical cancer care information accessible to a broader audience. Language accessibility is a significant component of NCCN's philosophy, ensuring that patients and caregivers receive clear, non-medical explanations of their treatment options through NCCN Guidelines for Patients®—available at no cost on their website.

As the MENA region grapples with increasing cancer cases, events like this symposium play an essential role in fostering collaboration and ensuring that all patients receive high-quality cancer care tailored to their unique needs. The ongoing relationship between NCCN and local healthcare experts exemplifies a unified commitment toward improving the lives of those affected by cancer. Through such partnerships, NCCN is not only enhancing immediate treatment options but also paving the way for future advancements in oncology within the region.