New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – The South-East Asia Region recorded the highest number of cases of lip and oral cavity cancer, uterine cervical cancer, and childhood cancers among all World Health Organisation (WHO) regions in 2022, according to Saima Wazed, Regional Director of WHO South-East Asia Region (WHO-SEAR).
Wazed highlighted that by 2050, new cancer cases and deaths in the region are projected to surge by 85%, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat the growing crisis.
Urgent Call for Collaborative Action on Cancer Control
Ahead of World Cancer Day on February 4, which carries the theme “United by Unique”, Wazed emphasized the importance of collective action against cancer. She acknowledged the unique experiences of every cancer patient and stressed the value of people-centred care, involving healthcare providers, families, and communities.According to WHO data, the South-East Asia Region recorded 2.4 million new cancer cases in 2022, including 56,000 children, and 1.5 million deaths.
Progress in Cancer Control Across the Region
Despite the alarming numbers, Wazed noted that several countries in the region have made significant strides in cancer control:- Six countries have established dedicated national cancer control plans, while two others have integrated cancer into their national non-communicable disease (NCD) plans.
- Bhutan successfully implemented the Health Flagship Project (2020), screening over 90% of target populations for gastric, cervical, and breast cancers, linking positive cases to further diagnosis and treatment.
- Thailand has embraced a universal health coverage approach to cancer care through the ‘Cancer Anywhere’program.
- Eight countries have launched nationwide HPV vaccination programs, a critical step in preventing cervical cancer.
- Ten countries are implementing the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer through a regional network of institutions.
- Seven countries have operational population-based cancer registries, while tertiary-level cancer care is available in ten countries, reaching at least 50% of patients in need.
- The region has also seen the fastest rate of decline in tobacco use, a leading cause of several high-burden cancers.
Challenges in Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Despite the progress, Wazed highlighted persistent challenges:- Uneven cancer control responses across countries, with some national plans not fully aligned with best practices.
- Lack of policies on controlling region-specific carcinogens, such as areca nut (a major contributor to oral cancers).
- Incomplete implementation of existing cancer prevention programs, resulting in millions of avoidable cases.
- Limited cancer screening – for example, cervical cancer screening coverage remains below 50% in seven countries, far below the 70% target needed for elimination.
- Late diagnosis, leading to costlier and less effective treatment.
- Inadequate palliative care, with only 3% of patients receiving necessary support.
WHO’s Strategy for Cancer Prevention and Management (2024-2030)
To tackle these challenges, WHO has collaborated with member states and partners to develop the WHO South-East Asia Regional Strategy for Comprehensive Cancer Prevention and Management (2024-2030). The strategy was approved at the 77th Regional Committee Meeting and focuses on:✔ People-centred healthcare, placing individuals and communities at the core of cancer treatment.
✔ Stronger partnerships with communities, civil societies, private sectors, and other stakeholders.
✔ Government-led efforts, supported by WHO and international partners, to build a robust cancer control framework.
A Collective Fight Against Cancer
“It is only through joint efforts—led by governments, supported by WHO and partners, and through collaboration—that we can effectively tackle the growing cancer burden,” Wazed stated.As World Cancer Day 2024 approaches, WHO continues to emphasize awareness, early detection, and improved access to treatment as essential strategies in the global fight against cancer.
