12/07/2026
The Global Status Report on Cancer 2026, was released this month by the World Health Organization. It provides a comprehensive assessment on where the world stands in preventing and controlling cancer. Significantly, the report places people and their lived experiences at the centre of the global cancer agenda. It is believed that while scientific advances have accelerated, the human experience of cancer has not always kept pace, which is in line with the aim of the direction of the cluster and the belief that the work of the cluster must firstly, be patient-centric. One key aim of the cluster is to better empower survivors and clinical professions through greater shared knowledge, understanding and experiences.
In 2024, an estimated 20.6 million people were diagnosed with cancer worldwide and by 2050, that number is projected to rise to 35 million annually. Presently, it is believed that 92 per cent of the global population will be affected by cancer in their lifetime, either through their own diagnosis or that of a close family member. Cancer will touch nearly every family! Additionally, the report recognised that the growing number of survivors creates further challenges. Cancer survivorship is not simply the absence of disease. It includes physical recovery, psychological adjustment, social reintegration as well as long-term support. Are we doing enough?
The WHO report calls on all stakeholders to implement key actions, coordinated around seven recommendations, in order to deliver, together, the three shifts needed in global cancer control: better capabilities, better protections and better value.
The recommendations are:
* embedding cancer control within health system strengthening and Universal Health Coverage;
* strengthening health systems capabilities for comprehensive cancer delivery;
* including people with lived experience in all cancel-related decision-making;
* enhancing community-level health promotion on cancer and strengthen social protection;
* promoting alignment and transparency in global cancer care data;
* unifying the cancer agenda around equity-based, system-wide solutions;
* aligning research and innovation with public health priorities and the services needs of Low- and middle-income families.
Notably, the report emphasizes that cancer care must be designed with – and for – people affected, which is in line with the new direction of the .
Tom Flynn.
-AIW cluster leader.
www.cs-aiw.eu
www.tfcengage.com
