DOH, WHO launch National Integrated Cancer Control Program
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) launched a four-year strategic framework on Wednesday aimed at prioritizing and strengthening initiatives for cancer control.
The 2024–2028 National Integrated Cancer Control Program (NICCP) Strategic Framework, was launched during the commemoration of the 5th anniversary of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act.
According to the DOH and WHO, the NICCP outlines the vision and mission of the National Integrated Cancer Control Council.
It added that it also underscores the significance of setting priorities and strengthening capacities to fulfill the strategic goals of cancer control.
“Universal health coverage and strong primary health care are the keys to addressing broader health system factors that influence equitable access to affordable and high-quality cancer care. The WHO will continue to support the country in ensuring that the cancer control program is built on an effective health system,” said Dr. Rui Paulo de Jesus, WHO Representative to the Philippines, in a joint press statement of the DOH and WHO.
The statement also cited a Philippine Statistics Authority report highlighting cancer as the second leading cause of death in 2022.
Lung, breast, and liver cancers topped the list, it added.
