For people with cancer, no two experiences are the same, even for those diagnosed with the same type of cancer. This year, World Cancer Day recognizes the individuality in each cancer journey and the importance of taking a people-centered approach to cancer care that fully considers each person’s needs.
World Cancer Day is an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the largest and oldest international cancer organization dedicated to taking action on cancer. UICC unites and supports the cancer community in its efforts to reduce the global cancer burden, promote greater equity and ensure that cancer control remains a priority on the global health and development agenda.
World Cancer Day’s three-year theme, “United by Unique,” strikes a particular chord with AccessHope, for a number of reasons:
Cancer is a personal experience – and is not technological
Modern cancer treatment no longer relies solely on chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Advances in science and technology now allow for treatments tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Precision medicine has transformed the fight against cancer, replacing some aggressive drug therapies and improving outcomes and quality of life. Ongoing trials and research continue to refine treatments for even more personalized care. However, the challenge remains in making these advancements accessible to all patients, regardless of where they live.
Large academic institutions with cancer sub-specialists play a crucial role here. By collaborating with these institutions, AccessHope bridges the gap, helping patients and their local oncologists make informed treatment decisions based on the latest research and protocols, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
The cancer journey requires diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support
For many people, the impact of cancer goes beyond the immediate focus on the type and stage of cancer and their treatment options. It’s important to offer a holistic approach touching every aspect of survivorship – a person’s experience from the time they receive a cancer diagnosis through the remainder of their life. This can include
family members, friends, and caregivers who are also impacted and included in some definitions of survivorship. Support for every part of a cancer journey is important.
All people should have access to the best possible care
Disparities in cancer care currently exist, often based on something as basic as a person’s ZIP code. AccessHope strives to erase these inequities by democratizing access to world-class cancer care.
Offering cancer benefits through AccessHope enables individuals to connect their community oncologist with multidisciplinary specialists from National Cancer Institute (NCI)–Designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers. This collaboration provides people with cancer and their treating doctors with insights on the latest personalized treatments, clinical trials, breakthrough medications and genetic/genomic testing.
World Cancer Day reminds us that while our goals are united, each person’s needs are unique. Access, equity and continued support are crucial as we take a critical step to look beyond the disease and consider the person being impacted by it.
