Strategic Document Development

One of the main challenges countries face in successfully tackling their cancer burden is the ability to formulate realistic and robust cancer control strategies and plans, while considering available resources.

In close cooperation with the World Health Organization and other partners, PACT supports Member States in the development of cancer control plans that reflect a comprehensive approach to strengthen cancer care and control at the national level.

National strategies for cancer control need to address prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and palliative care. Cancer research and surveillance are also important for the development of effective control programmes that meet local needs. In addition, the safe and efficient use of nuclear technology involving radiation sources requires that appropriate infrastructure is in place to ensure that patients receive the optimum dose of radiation for their condition, that levels of occupational exposure to radiation are as low as reasonably achievable, and that risks to the public are minimized.

Cancer control plans may require the contribution of many international organizations that work in the area of cancer. Member States are responsible for ensuring that a national structure is in place to oversee the implementation of these plans.