Aspire to address lung cancer concerns
SINGAPORE: On World Cancer Day, a consortium called the Asia Pacific Policy Review and Engagement for Lung Cancer (Aspire) will tackle lung cancer, one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in the AsiaPacific (APAC) region.
The group will work with governments, agencies, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and patient groups to improve health outcomes for lung cancer patients in Asia-Pacific.
Lung cancer has a significant health and economic impact in the region. It is the most prevalent cancer, accounting for about 1 million deaths per year, and projected to rise to over 1.8 million by 2040.
Access to screening, diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer varies in each country, where the local challenges are often unique.
Aspire for Lung Cancer aims to improve access across the region by bringing multidisciplinary experts together and advocating for policy changes tailored to local needs.
As part of this effort, a plan to sign a memorandum of understanding for collaborations with the Asia Pacific Coalition Against Lung Cancer (APCLC) has been made.
The APCLC, being a multidisciplinary group led by physicians and other stakeholders, provides academic insights, clinical perspectives and expertise in conducting studies in the APAC region.
“Lung cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage, when treatment options are limited and survival is poorest,” says Dr. Herbert Loong, associate professor in the Department of Clinical Oncology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and chairman of APCLC.
“With advancements in technologies for early detection of lung cancer and significantly improved treatment outcomes, our aim is to increase public awareness and to encourage governments around the APAC region to prioritize this disease. Achieving this aim requires coordinated efforts from multiple stakeholders. We are eager to synergize our efforts with like-minded collaborators such as Aspire to move this agenda forward.”
Launched on World Cancer Day, Aspire underscores a commitment to advocate for enhanced overall care, promote public and patient awareness, and encourage governments to prioritize and bridge the existing gaps in lung cancer services.