There is much that can be done to improve cancer control in the region, even in the poorest countries. While economic considerations must be taken into account, a more broad-based approach to cancer control should also limit the escalating costs of care.

At present, resources for cancer control in the region as a whole are not only inadequate but directed almost exclusively to treatment. This strategy, although successful to a degree, is suboptimal because the impact of preventive measures on incidence is not taken full advantage of, while the lack of approaches to earlier diagnosis reduces the value of therapy.  

The key mission of the WHO Programme on Noncommunicable Diseases is to promote national cancer control policies, plans and programmes, integrated to noncommunicable diseases and other related problems. Our core functions are to set norms and standards, promote surveillance, encourage evidence-based prevention, early detection, treatment and palliative tailored to different socioeconomic settings.

WHO Member States have declared in the WHO Constitution that the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being. This statement encompasses the right to appropriate health care, and this should not be denied to patients with cancer, or to anyone at high risk of developing cancer.