Policy brief: 'Strengthening equitable access to breast cancer care through national health policies'

This new policy brief offers ministries and advocates a practical and accessible tool to guide the development of national policies and strategies to address breast cancer. Developed in collaboration with the WHO GBCI Technical Working Group, global breast cancer experts and renowned advocates, it presents clear policy options for governments to strengthen health systems to prevent, detect and treat breast cancer, and improve quality of life for all affected by breast cancer.

The brief provides actionable recommendations across the health system, including through patient navigation, establishing robust cancer registries, health workforce development, ensuring greater financial protection for patients, and increased investments in health infrastructure. It complements other key resources on breast cancer, including the WHO Global Breast Cancer Initiative Implementation Framework and the UICC Breast Cancer Advocacy handbook. 

The brief was developed with input of Reem Al-Ajlouni, Jordan Breast Cancer Programme; Maira Caleffi, FEMAMA; Fatima Cardoso, ABC Global Alliance; Mishka Cira, NCI US; Issimouha Dillé Mahamadou, WHO AFRO; Vicki Durston, Breast Cancer Network Australia; Corrine Ellsworth-Beaumont, KnowYourLemons; Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, I Can Serve Foundation; Lamia Mahmoud, WHO EMRO; Mary Nyangasi, WHO HQ; Rizu Rizu, WHO HQ; Kathleen Schmeler, MD Anderson; Tracey Shissler, Jhpiego; Victoria Smart Wolodzko, Susan G. Komen; Budiastuti Wening, Indonesian Breast Cancer Foundation; Mary Wong, Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance.

The development of the policy brief was supported by UICC's Breast Cancer programme partners.