Bridging borders for resilience in cancer control in the Middle East: a strategic alliance of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan.
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Overview
abstract
Cancer is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan are home to more than 45 million people, and all three countries have had an upward trend in cancer incidence over the past three decades. In this Series paper, we analysed evidence from three publications in the Lancet Oncology on the current cancer burden, advancements in care, and remaining challenges. We also highlight future shared opportunities for collaboration between the three countries in the cancer control agenda. Notable progress has also been made in cancer care and research in all three countries. However, challenges persist in sustaining financial support for cancer care and addressing the high prevalence of established risk factors alongside a projected rise in incidence due to demographic changes. Our analysis indicates that this collaboration can harness many opportunities to both improve cancer care and reduce cancer incidence due to the similarities and shared goals among countries. These include collaboration on harmonised cancer registries, cross-border clinical trials, and regional leadership on clinical guidelines, prevention measures, and awareness.
