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for HIV/AIDS, could be expanded to screen for and treat cancers. One such approachthe Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon initiativewhich screens and treats for breast and cervical cancer in combination with an HIV/AIDS programme, is a good example of how services for both infectious and noncommunicable diseases can be combined. With health systems strengthening as a central goal and its emphasis on synergies and expansion of existing mechanisms, the task force deserves praise for its cooperative and inclusive approach. All too often global health initiatives are competing with one another for funds and attention to the ultimate detriment of the people whose lives they hope to improve. In the section that explains that much can be done, the report highlights a series of interventions in each of the six areas of the cancer care and control continuum: prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and palliation. The overarching areas for action recommended are ve key strategies. First, innovative delivery of care, such as using telecommunication with partners at national or international centres of excellence, will allow non-specialists to bridge the human resources gap. Second, improvement of access to aordable medicines and vaccines can be achieved through price reduction strategies. Third, innovative nancing mechanisms should be expanded to include cancer care and control. Or existing initiatives, such as the UN General Secretarys Every Woman Every Child strategy, might provide a commitment-based model that could be adopted for cancer control funding. Fourth, improved evidence through health information systems, such as national cancer registries, and research will help to formulate priorities and decision making at a national level. All countries are encouraged to develop, implement, and monitor national cancer plans. And fth, stewardship and leadership for cancer care and control needs to be strengthened. Here, WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer are strongly called upon to take lead roles. The report is optimistic and uncompromising: move away from disease silos and the distinction between communicable and non-communicable diseases and put the human being at the centre of action. If this message is acted upon, cancer care and control in low-income and middle-income countries might indeed become a good news story in the years to come. The Lancet
For Closing the Cancer Divide see http://ghsm.hms.harvard.edu/ uploads/pdf/ccd_report_111027. pdf For more on the Pink Ribbon Red Ribbon initiative see http:// www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ ps/2011/09/172244.htm
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