Cancer screening programs in South-east Asia and Western Pacific
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-18-2024
Abstract
BackgroundThe burden of cancer can be altered by screening. The field of cancer screening is constantly evolving; from the initiation of program for new cancer types as well as exploring innovative screening strategies (e.g. new screening tests). The aim of this study was to perform a landscape analysis of existing cancer screening programs in South-East Asia and the Western Pacific.MethodsWe conducted an overview of cancer screening in the region with the goal of summarizing current designs of cancer screening programs. First, a selective narrative literature review was used as an exploration to identify countries with organized screening programs. Second, representatives of each country with an organized program were approached and asked to provide relevant information on the organizations of their national or regional cancer screening program.ResultsThere was wide variation in the screening strategies offered in the considered region with only eight programs identified as having an organized design. The majority of these programs did not meet all the essential criteria for being organized screening. The greatest variation was observed in the starting and stopping ages.ConclusionsEssential criteria of organized screening are missed. Improving organization is crucial to ensure that the beneficial effects of screening are achieved in the long-term. It is strongly recommended to consider a regional cancer screening network.
Keywords
Western pacific, South-East Asia, Cancer screening, Organized screening, Breast cancer, Colorectal cancer, Cervical cancer, Lung cancer, Gastric cancer
Divisions
fac_med
Publication Title
BMC Health Services Research
Volume
24
Issue
1
Publisher
BMC
Publisher Location
CAMPUS, 4 CRINAN ST, LONDON N1 9XW, ENGLAND