National Cancer Control Program of Thailand

Since 2000 cancer has been the leading cause of death in Thailand. In response to this challenge, the National Cancer Institute of Thailand (NCI), in collaboration with other bodies, has developed and promoted the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) to provide appropriate policies and practice for the prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer, with optimal supportive care. With plans strongly supported by the Ministry of Public Health, the NCCP envisages integration into the health care system in 6 strategic areas: (1) cancer informatics; (2) primary prevention; (3) early detection; (4) treatment; (5) palliative care; and (6) cancer control research. For this purpose 7 regional cancer hospitals have been established to aid the NCI in conducting the NCCP. Cancer registration is a high priority, with 31.2% of the population now covered by quality registries. In primary prevention, there is a focus on awareness, lifestyle improvement, anti-smoking and alcohol control programs, vaccination, and Opisthorchis viverrini (OV) control. Screening programs for cervical, breast and colorectal cancer are underway to increase early detection. Priority is being given to facilities for chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as palliative care. Cancer control research encompasses international cooperation and participation in training programs, especially for development of cancer registration and other aspects of cancer control programs in South-East Asia, not least as an IARC Collaborating Center.