Case study compendium Banner Image Case study compendium Banner Image

Transforming cancer care by 2040: Case study compendium

Introduction

This case study compendium showcases real-world examples of innovative approaches to cancer control, drawn from the themes explored in the Transforming Cancer Care by 2040 White Paper. Each case study highlights successful strategies, challenges overcome, and key lessons learned in areas such as prevention, early detection, precision medicine, and health system strengthening. This collection serves as a resource for policymakers, healthcare leaders, and advocates seeking practical insights to inform future cancer control efforts.

Transparency Disclaimer: This material is to be used in conjunction with the white paper on transforming cancer care by 2040, the development of which has been led by AstraZeneca, with the support and consultation of an expert group in the field of oncology. The expert group provided input throughout the process, including guidance on the paper’s direction, content, and recommendations. The views expressed in this paper reflect a collective assessment of the current and future landscape of cancer care and are intended to inform and support ongoing efforts in the field. However, the final content and recommendations are those of AstraZeneca, and they do not necessarily reflect the official position of the expert group or any affiliated institutions. Please note that some of the technologies mentioned in the white paper may not be available in certain countries and its effectiveness may not have yet been proven or established in clinical trials.

Table of contents

System governance case studies

Data infrastructure and collection

Planning, transparency and accountability

Transparent monitoring and reporting

Building capability and capacity

Innovative financing models

Health infrastructure funding

Regional funding mechanisms

Data-enabled risk assessment and identification

Population based whole genome sequencing (WGS)

New models of early detection

Improving the models of early detection we have today

Post-treatment surveillance

Treatment innovation

Equity in access to innovation

Improved models of care delivery

Psychosocial support

Economic and employment support

References

System governance case studies

Data infrastructure and collection

AU: Cancer screening registers

The Australian government established the National Cancer Screening Register to support their national screening programs for bowel and cervical cancer. The register is used to manage participant details (including invitations and reminders) and screen, collect, store, analyze and report on screening program data. The comprehensive data helps inform policy, improve program quality and service delivery.1

AU: Creating a healthcare data platform

Australia has implemented a National Healthcare Interoperability Plan 2023-2028, that advocates for the implementation of data infrastructure to enable digital health information exchange.2 This has cultivated new solutions, such as the one provided by Telstra Health, in partnership with Smile Digital Health, who have developed a data platform that enables real time communication and exchange of data between health systems and patients.3 This has been recognized globally as a best-in-class solution for healthcare data harmonization, integration and information sharing, helping inform clinical decisions, including screening invitations.3,4

US: Facilitating data collection from electronic health records

The American Society of Clinical Oncology introduced the Cancer Learning Intelligence Network for Quality (CancerLinQ) to overcome challenges associated with data extraction from electronic health records so real-world data can be used in research and clinical practice.5 CancerLinQ is a web-based system that summarizes structured and unstructured data from large datasets containing electronic medical records. As of 2019, it included the data of over 1.5 million patients from over 100 oncology centers across the United States (US).5

Planning, transparency and accountability

BR: National Cancer Institute/Committee

Brazil6 has established a national cancer committee/institute to oversee the implementation of cancer policies recommended in cancer control plans. This committee/institute can act as a central point of engagement with different stakeholders in the oncology landscape, including Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), academics, hospitals and medical societies.

CN: Commitment to tackling cancer

As part of their Healthy China 2030 plan the Chinese government set ambitious targets for addressing chronic disease management for the whole population by 2030, including for the overall 5-year survival rate from cancer to increase by 15%.7 China has also adopted two national liver cancer screening programs8 to tackle the major health burden of liver cancer in the country, where in 2022 alone nearly 368,000 people were diagnosed with liver cancer and around 317,000 people died from it.9

EU: Cancer Mission Hubs (ECHoS)

The Cancer Mission, as part of the Horizon Europe program, seeks to improve the lives of over 3 million people by 2030 through prevention, treatment, and support for those affected by cancer.10 The ECHoS project, funded with €6 million, will establish Cancer Mission Hubs across EU Member States and Associated Countries to support Mission activities at national, regional, and local levels.11 Several countries already have operational Cancer Hub-like structures, including Belgium12 and Sweden.13 The ECHoS consortium includes 61 organizations from 30 countries, covering the entire cancer ecosystem. Partners include industry, academia, hospitals, citizens, and both public and private sector organizations.14

EU: PCM4EU

The success of personalized cancer medicine (PCM) depends on access to adequate molecular diagnostics and drugs for implementation.15 The PCM4EU consortium aims to improve the survival and quality of life of cancer patients in the EU using PCM based on best practices.15 The consortium’s work includes evaluating standards and providing best practice guidelines, providing recommendations on genomic diagnostics, and facilitating cross-border access to genomic testing and precision medicine.15 This harmonization of standards and guidelines will greatly facilitate European collaboration in the field of personalized medicine.15

FR: Cancer Plan

France’s Cancer Plan sets out several key targets for improving cancer patient outcomes.16 It also commits to improving access to molecular biology by developing a funding model for innovative molecular biological tests, combining real-life follow-up and evaluation at three years.16 Additionally, the plan aims to develop and support the expansion of multi-omics tests conducted by molecular biology platforms and to make precision medicine accessible to all.16

Global: QUAD cancer moonshot initiative

The heads of state of Australia, India, Japan and the United States committed to the QUAD cancer moonshot initiative in 2024, which aims to advance the elimination of cervical cancer in collaboration with low-middle income Indo-pacific partners.17 The initiative aims to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer through expanded access to vaccines, screening and treatment.17 To do this, it will draw on funding from multilateral development banks, the private sector, non-profits and foundations.17

NO & SE: Multi-stakeholder leadership

Six Regional Cancer Centers have been established in Sweden,18 which are run by the Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions which is made up of the management of the six regional centers, as well as a national cancer coordinator. Their main responsibility has been to support the implementation of the National Cancer Strategy which included the formation of national and regional specialist collaborative groups and development of national guidelines.19 In Norway, hospitals are organized into regional health trusts, and there is a direct line of communication from the Minister of Health to the hospital level. A Cancer Strategy Director is appointed who facilitates the implementation of the cancer strategy.18

Transparent monitoring and reporting

EN & CH: Patient experience surveys

In England, the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey was introduced to monitor progress in cancer care provision at local, regional and national levels and improve quality of care based on the patient’s perspective.20 Similarly in Switzerland, SCAPE surveys were introduced to survey cancer patient experiences.21 However, in England engaging under-represented populations has in the past proved challenging,22 while in Switzerland, challenges have arisen from differences in administrative governance and processes within the country’s decentralized health system, and the need to translate and culturally adapt the survey for each region.23

Global: Cancer performance indicator

The Health Value Alliance, through stakeholder collaboration, developed a Cancer Performance Index, to assess care quality outcomes, cost, and value – providing standardized data for decision makers.24 It is powered by an advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics system that will enable the assessment, monitoring and reporting on cancer service and innovation performance.24

HR: Cancer plan

The Croatian Cancer Plan demonstrates how ambitious and memorable targets can drive progress in cancer control initiatives.25 It establishes clear goals for reducing cancer incidence and mortality while enhancing early detection and treatment.25 Some of its goals include committing to eliminating hepatitis B infections in infant and adult age by 2030; reducing mortality of breast, lung, colon and cervical cancer by 25% by 2030; introducing genetic counselling and gene testing for women with particularly high risk of breast cancer; and inviting adults between 50 and 74 years of age, every two years, for colon cancer screening.25

Building capability and capacity

NO: Cancer clusters to promote knowledge exchange

Regional cancer clusters have been established – e.g. the Oslo Cancer Cluster – aiming to foster collaboration in the oncology space within Norway, improve knowledge exchange, provide an environment that supports innovation and provide localized access to precision medicine technology and infrastructure.26 The cluster is made up of about 100 members, including industry, university hospitals, patient organizations, and research centres.26

Innovative financing models

BR, TH & IN: Licensing agreements

Brazil has utilized licensing agreements to increase access to drugs, for example reducing the cost of antiviral drugs for hepatitis C virus (HCV).27 In addition, in Thailand and India, compulsory licensing has been used for cancer drugs.27 Countries may issue compulsory licenses so generic medicines can be created and used at a much lower cost, which improves access.27

CA: Health impact investments

In Canada, the MaRS Centre for Impact Investing has partnered with the Heart & Stroke Foundation to develop the Activate program which aimed to prevent the onset of high blood pressure among older adults and assess the impact of preventive measures.28 The funding for this program came from a social impact bond, where philanthropic donations provided the upfront investments, and these were then repaid by the federal government based on improvements in health outcomes.28

CO: Global financing initiatives

Colombia has benefited from global financing initiatives like the World Bank’s financing for health system resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean.29 Through this funding the World Bank has emphasized the importance of resilient health financing through taxes on alcohol and tobacco to enhance revenue and reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, including cancer.29

IN: Development impact bonds

The use of development impact bonds (DIBs) in India to fund breast cancer care initiatives has been highlighted as a powerful way to improve standards of treatment for HER-2+ breast cancer patients in lower-income communities.30 Given the high burden of breast cancer in India, the use of a DIB to fund implementation of best practice in treatment for breast cancer could increase HER-2+ treatment success rate from 40% to 70-75% in certain government hospitals.30 This would require a 5-year bond for $35 to 40 million.30

IT: Innovative medicines fund

In 2017, the Italian Ministry of Health established a €1 billion Innovative Drug Fund, which includes €500 million in funding for oncology therapies and €500 million for other medicines.31 This fund has boosted the availability of novel medicines within the Italian market and rapidly increased patient access to these therapies.32 The Italian Drug Fund has shifted the focus from cost-effectiveness to value-based pricing and led to affordable impacts on national drug expenditure.32 The fund has also introduced risk sharing between the government, as a payor, and manufacturers in the process of developing new therapies.32

UK: Innovative medicines fund

The UK established a fund of £680 million for the Innovative Medicines Fund (IMF)33 and Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF)34 – £340 million each – to fast-track access to innovative medicines. The CDF provides patients with earlier, time limited access to new drugs as part of a managed access arrangement, where there is uncertainty regarding the degree of efficacy of these medicines.34 The data collected will then inform the decision made during the Health Technology Appraisal.34 The CDF has been instrumental in making expensive cancer treatments available, while controlling healthcare budgets, with this model now being expanded to other therapeutic areas.34

Health infrastructure funding

EE: Innovation infrastructure fund

In Estonia, healthcare projects were submitted for the first time to the government’s innovative infrastructure fund.35 One of these projects aims to improve the cell therapy capabilities of the country’s healthcare system, to enable the availability of world-class treatment locally.35 Another project is focused on developing a comprehensive national approach to data management, to enable patients to have a better understanding of their treatment pathway and participate more effectively in their treatment decisions.35 The fund is also focused on reducing the workload of healthcare professionals by automating data entry and transmission.35

FR: Funding for AI

France’s 2030 plan, has pledged €2.5 billion to support the development of an AI ecosystem.36 The aim is to develop nine AI clusters as well as investment support mechanisms.36 The funding is available to AI software companies with medical applications, which can facilitate innovation in cancer care.36

NG: Infrastructure fund

The Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority established an infrastructure fund which included a focus on healthcare.37 The fund aims to invest in domestic infrastructure projects that meet targeted financial returns, grow and diversify the Nigerian economy, and increase employment.37 To date, USD $202 million have been invested in cancer treatment and the development of diagnostic centres.37

Regional funding mechanisms

EU: Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan

Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan, launched in 2021,38 is an initiative launched by the European Union to tackle cancer across all stages of the disease pathway.39,40 It aims to reduce health inequalities, improve access to care, and foster innovation in cancer research and treatment.41 The plan represents a coordinated European Union wide effort to combat cancer, allocating €4 billion to support various actions and initiatives. So far, the plan has led to the establishment of the Knowledge Centre on Cancer, the EU Network of Comprehensive Cancer Centres, the European Network of Youth Cancer Survivors, and the HealthyLifestyle4All initiative.42

EU: The EU Cancer Mission

The EU Cancer Mission is an initiative within the Horizon Europe research and innovation program running from 2021 to 2027, working in synergy with Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. Its overarching goal is to improve the lives of more than 3 million people by 2030 through prevention, cure, and better quality of life for those affected by cancer, including their families.10 The Cancer Mission is implementing several flagship initiatives such as the UNCAN.eu: An integrated EU platform for cancer research;43 the European Cancer Prevention Centre;44 the Network of Comprehensive Cancer Infrastructures; and the European Cancer Patient Digital Centre. The Mission emphasizes collaboration across Europe, involving citizens, stakeholders, and Member States.45

Cancer care pathway case studies

Data-enabled risk assessment and identification

Global: Accounting for genetic risk in breast cancer risk prediction models

Many models have been developed to identify individual risk of breast cancer,46 some of which can be applied not only at a general population level, but also on women with a history of breast cancer.46 Models that do not take genetic risk into account, are primarily intended for use in women in the general population.46

Global: Using machine learning to predict disease

A promising approach to improving cancer risk prediction is through the integration of multi-omics data through advanced machine learning frameworks. One such framework, MILTON (MachIne Learning with phenoType associatiONs47), leverages UK Biobank’s extensive dataset which includes a wide range of multi-omics data from nearly half a million individuals. MILTON uses these quantitative biomarkers to predict over 3,000 diseases,48 including various cancers. The framework was shown to successfully predict disease before its onset, and in some cases was shown to out-perform polygenic risk scores.48

Population based whole genome sequencing (WGS)

SE: Use of WGS to determine cancer risk and diagnosis

In Sweden, the Genomic Medicine Sweden Initiative aims to implement large scale sequencing techniques, with a focus on inherited rare diseases, cancer and infectious diseases.49 It aims to reach 65,000 samples sequenced per year by 2025, covering most Swedish patients with rare diseases and cancer.50 The initiative has resulted in some hospitals implementing WGS as routine clinical care for children who are diagnosed with cancer,51 and a collaboration with Illumina to evaluate WGS as first line testing in patients with acute leukemia.52

US: WGS of newborns

WGS of newborns has been piloted in the United States, in trials such as the BabySeq Project.53 In this trial, 11% of the babies tested were found to have monogenetic disease risks.53 However, researchers noted that the cost of sequencing needs to further decrease before it can be widely adopted in clinical practice.53

New models of early detection

AU: Adoption of AI in radiology

In order to speed up and free up capacity in early detection, Australia is currently moving forward with the adoption of AI to over 250 sites across the country that can mimic a second radiologist’s opinion on a scan.54,55 The technology provides reading and reporting services to clinics and public and private hospitals throughout Australia.54

EN: Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED) trial

The National Health Service (NHS) England is undertaking the Galleri trial which is testing the effectiveness of MCED tests.56 Over 140,000 people aged 50 to 77 are participating in this three-year trial, making it the largest study of its kind worldwide.56 A planned larger pilot study for 2024 has been postponed because the initial data from the trial is not strong enough to proceed, with the NHS deciding to wait for the final trial results before determining whether to proceed with the pilot study.56

Improving the models of early detection we have today

CA & SE: At-home colorectal screening tests

In Canada, people between 50 – 74 years old without a family history of colorectal cancer are eligible for a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) to screen for colorectal cancer.57 The test detects blood in stool, which can be a sign of colorectal cancer, or pre-cancerous cells.58 While this method of screening is useful for detecting colorectal cancer, there will still be false negative results, so further investigation may be required when a patient presents with concerning symptoms and a negative FIT.59 Additionally, to optimize the program’s utility, there needs to be an increase in uptake of FITs as this is currently suboptimal.60 Similarly in Sweden, all 21 healthcare regions have initiated at home testing for fecal blood in individuals 60 – 74 years old, with those testing positive being invited for colonoscopies. A national unit oversees the whole program, with nurses designated to provide information and education to patients.61

NG, BR, IN: Diagnostics hub-and-spoke model

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, AstraZeneca, and SOPHiA GENETICS are working with local partners to provide liquid biopsy tests in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), including Nigeria, Brazil and India.62,63 By leveraging a hub-and-spoke model, blood samples are collected from community-based spokes and sent to regional centers for testing, with results delivered digitally to doctors.62 This type of model aids those whose cancer can be picked up from liquid biopsy to quickly access high quality care. Since the start of the program, in April 2024, 14 leading healthcare institutions worldwide have signed up to be pilot hubs.63

UK: Use of digital pathology in cancer screening programs

The UK National Screening Committee has endorsed the use of digital pathology for bowel cancer, breast and cervical screening as an optional alternative to light microscopy.64 This technology can increase the speed of sample analysis and allows pathologists to review slides remotely online. Furthermore, the digitization of pathology slides opens the opportunity to the use of computer algorithms to further aid pathologists in their work.65

Post-treatment surveillance

Global: Using AI to support chronic condition management

Apps like Livongo use AI to provide patients with individualized health coaching and real-time feedback, allowing them to manage their diseases better.66 These AI-powered solutions evaluate data from wearable devices and patient inputs to provide personalized guidance, track progress, and notify patients of potential health issues before they become serious.66

Treatment innovation

EU: Precision Cancer Medicine Repurposing System Using Pragmatic Clinical Trials (PRIME-ROSE)

PRIME-ROSE is a European Commission Horizon Europe Mission on Cancer funded project running from 2023 until 2028,67 which aims to provide affordable precision cancer medicine to cancer patients, addressing inequalities in access. The project involved 24 partners and is led by the Institute for Cancer Research at Oslo University Hospital. The work builds on precision cancer medicine clinical trials which share the design of the pragmatic trial design of the DRUP trial, which aimed to determine efficacy and facilitate access to commercially available anti-cancer drugs for patients with specific genetic variants of certain cancers.68

US: Innovative detection and treatment tools for cancer care

The Biden-Harris US administration announced three projects, funded under agreements with the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health’s (ARPA-H), to develop new ways of detecting and treating cancer, which form part of the agency’s commitments under the cancer moonshot initiative.69 This includes up to USD $45 million to support the development of an implant that is able to sense and respond with specific doses of medicine to enhance cancer treatment, and up to a further USD $19 million to research the potential of using bacteria in the targeted killing of tumor cells.69 Up to USD $50 million has also been allocated to the identification of biomarkers, to support MCED testing.69

Equity in access to innovation

Access to clinical trials

APAC: Decentralized access to clinical trials

The National Cancer Centre in Japan and the Department of Medical Services in Thailand are working to promote decentralized and innovative clinical trials.70 Thai temporary medical licenses were granted for oncologists working at the Japanese center, allowing Thai patients to participate in innovative clinical trials conducted in Japan, remotely over the internet.70 This is done in conjunction with a supervisor at partner hospitals in Thailand, which also has the control and ability to prescribe the investigational drug.70

CN, JP, EU & US: Expanding access to clinical trials

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, in collaboration with other academic and private sector international partners, joined the Bloomberg New Economy International Cancer Coalition, in a multiyear coalition to foster international collaboration on clinical trials, between China, Japan, Europe and the US.71 This coalition aims to accelerate access, development and approval of novel cancer treatments.71 The coalition also provides a platform for engagement with regulators and aims to raise public awareness of clinical trials.71

US: Health equity report card

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network in collaboration with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, and National Minority Quality Forum, developed a Health Equity Report Card (HERC).72 The card contains recommendations to help organizations overcome bias in healthcare delivery, overcome barriers to care, and address underlying social determinants of health.72 Preliminary findings from a pilot study show that all five participating sites reported that HERC implementation would either inform or reinforce necessary changes in institutional practices and processes.73 Key HERC recommendations to improve equity in access to guideline-adherent care included:72

  • Discuss clinical trial options with all patients
  • Refer patients to preventive and supportive services
  • Efforts to reduce barriers to clinical trial participations
  • Utilize health information technology and workflow processes to prevent disparities in care

Access to AI

UK: Regulatory sandbox on AI

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) AI Airlock was launched in Spring 2024 and is the MHRA’s first regulatory sandbox for AI as a Medical Device (AIaMD) product.74 The project aims to enhance the understanding of these technologies and accelerate solutions to novel regulatory challenges for AIaMD. Using real-world products, the AI Airlock will bring together expertise from within the MHRA and key partners including the UK approval bodies, the NHS, and other regulators.74

Improved models of care delivery

Patient navigation tools

CA: Adoption of electronic pathway solutions

In Ontario, Canada, patients are assigned to a multidisciplinary team (MDT) and provided with an electronic pathway solution (EPS), to reduce waiting times for diagnosis and treatment in lung, prostate and colorectal cancers.75 An EPS improves the communication received by cancer patients, helps them navigate the cancer care continuum, ensures better patient management, increases productivity, and streamlines workflow for healthcare providers.75

EU: App for cancer survivors

The European Cancer Organisation is developing an EU-level Cancer Survivor Smart Card, smartCARE app, to improve the quality of life and health status of cancer survivors.76 This app will provide personalized support for medical and psychosocial unmet needs of cancer survivors, including facilitating the communication between patients and healthcare professionals and centralizing resources.76 The consortium involved in the project includes 17 member states.76

US: American Cancer Society (ACS) patient navigation support

The ACS supports navigation through several different platforms. The ACS Cares (Community Access to Resources, Education, and Support) connects people with cancer and caregivers to information and resources chosen for each person’s needs through the ACS CARESTM app.77 The ACS Global BEACON initiative provides training, support, and grants for patient navigation in LMICs.78 The ACS Patient Navigation Initiative gives grants, education and support to 20 health systems that provide care to historically excluded populations.79

Digital and AI powered MDTs

Global: NAVIFY Tumour Board

Software solutions that can be used to facilitate more efficient workflow of MDTs are emerging. For example, the NAVIFY Tumour Board, launched by Roche, is a software that integrates patient data from various platforms without requiring manual collation of clinical data.80 It has increased the productivity of MDTs by reducing preparation time for its members.80 Currently, this software has challenges retrieving radiology and pathology images stored in separate information systems, and cannot extract or interpret relevant images, so further development is still needed.81

Psychosocial support

Global: Digital emotional support tool

The myCode project aims to develop digital tools for emotional support for young adult cancer survivors (aged 15 – 35 years). It places young people at the front and center and was built on the basis that young people with cancer often lack bespoke support tailored to them. The project seeks to address a range of topics such as death, relapse and relationships.82

UK: Cancer Research UK’s support forum

Cancer Research UK’s support forum – CancerChat – is a fully moderated and anonymous chat which allows members to talk to others affected by cancer, share experiences, or ask a question to cancer specialist nurses.83

US: National Cancer Institute’s Community Oncology Research Program (NCORP)

This program brings cancer clinical trials and care delivery research to community settings, emphasizing accessibility and inclusivity.84 It includes studies on patient navigation, integrated psychosocial care, and personalized treatment plans.84 The NCORP model demonstrates a holistic approach by integrating research findings into real-world settings, promoting community-based, long-term support.84

US: Memorial Sloan Kettering’s telemedicine platform

Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center collaborated with Accenture, Avanade and Microsoft to launch a telemedicine platform, in 2021, which has since been used for more than 200,000 virtual appointments.85 MSK surveyed radiation oncology patients and found that patients who used telehealth were satisfied and felt they received high-quality, effective care – 90% of respondents still had confidence in their physician, 88% continue to understand their treatment plan and 87% had confidence in their treatment.86

Economic and employment support

CA & NL: Supporting employment of cancer survivors

A social enterprise set up in the Netherlands, oPuce, identifies job opportunities for people living with cancer, as well as best practices in employing cancer survivors.87 oPuce launched the covenant on work and cancer in collaboration with its business network to call on companies to support equal employment opportunities. It also developed the Talent Connector, a digital platform that enables cancer survivors to be connected to recruiters within the oPuce Business Network.87 In Canada, the iCanWork initiative outlines steps for survivors and employers to work together in planning and managing the transition back to employment.88

US: Financial support for cancer patients

In the US, there are several financial support systems for patients, including help with short-term housing near their cancer treatment center (e.g. American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, Extended Stay America or Healthcare Hospitality Network), help with transportation costs (e.g. American Cancer Society Road To Recovery program or Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society’s Patient Aid Program), and help with food costs (e.g. National Hunger Hotline).89

 

References

  1. Cancer Institute NSW. The National Cancer Screening Register. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/prevention-and-screening/screening-and-early-detection/cervical-screening/about-the-national-cervical-screening-program/the-national-cancer-screening-register#:~:text=The%20National%20Cancer%20Screening%20Register%20(NCSR)%20 [Last accessed May 2025]
  2. Australian Government. Connecting Australian Healthcare: National healthcare interoperability plan 2023-2028. 2023. Available at: https://www.digitalhealth.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/national-healthcare-interoperability-plan-2023-2028.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  3. Telstra Health. Redefining the Health Information Exchange in Australia and Beyond - Telstra Health and Smile Digital Health Account Strategic Partnership for Interoperability. 2024. Available at: https://www.telstrahealth.com/redefining-the-health-information-exchange-in-australia-and-beyond-telstra-health-and-smile-digital-health-announce-strategic-partnership-for-interoperability/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  4. Telstra Health. Population Health. (no date). Available at: https://www.telstrahealth.com/sectors/population-health/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  5. All.Can. CancerLinQ®. (no date). Available at: https://www.all-can.org/efficiency-hub/cancerlinq-harnessing-real-world-data-from-electronic-health-records-to-improve-cancer-care-and-facilitate-research/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  6. Instituto Nacional de Câncer. Institutional. 2022. Available at: https://www.gov.br/inca/en/access-to-information/institutional [Last accessed May 2025]
  7. Song, J. et al. Current status of and future perspectives on care for cancer survivors in China. Glob Health & Medicine. 2023. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10461331/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  8. Xu, Y. et al. Survey of hepatitis B virus infection for liver cancer screening in China: A population-based, cross-sectional study. Chin Med J (Eng). 2024. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11188860/#:~:text=Conclusions%3A,among%20individuals%20with%20HBV%20infection [Last accessed May 2025]
  9. Global Cancer Observatory. China. International Agency for Research on Cancer. 2022. Available at: https://gco.iarc.who.int/media/globocan/factsheets/populations/160-china-fact-sheet.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  10. European Commission. EU Mission: Cancer. 2024. Available at: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/eu-mission-cancer_en [Last accessed May 2025]
  11. ECHoS Cancer Mission Hubs. ECHoS Project Overview. (no date). Available at: https://cancermissionhubs.eu/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  12. All.Can. National initiatives: Belgium. (no date). Available at: https://www.all-can.org/national-initiatives/belgium/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  13. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. EU Country Cancer Profile: Sweden. OECD Publishing. 2023. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1787/7b5ff594-en [Last accessed May 2025]
  14. ECHoS. ECHoS Project. We aim to create real life impact in cancer care and research. (no date). Available at: https://cancermissionhubs.eu/the-project [Last accessed May 2025]
  15. PCM4EU. Personalised Cancer Medicines for all EU citizens. (no date). Available at: https://www.matrix-fkb.no/en/pcm4eu/home [Last accessed May 2025]
  16. Institut National du Cancer. 2021-2030 France Ten-Year Cancer-Control Strategy 2021-2025 Roadmap. 2022. Available at: https://sante.gouv.fr/IMG/pdf/2021-2030_france_ten-year_cancer-control_strategy_2021-2025_roadmap.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  17. Center for Strategic & International Studies. The Quad’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative. 2024. Available at: https://www.csis.org/analysis/quads-cancer-moonshot-initiative [Last accessed May 2025]
  18. Mæhle, P.M. and Smeland, S. Implementing cancer patient pathways in Scandinavia how structuring might affect the acceptance of a politically imposed reform. Health Policy. 2021. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34493379/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  19. Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Country Cancer Profile, Sweden. 2023. Available at: https://www.oecd.org/en/publications/eu-country-cancer-profile-sweden-2023_7b5ff594-en.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  20. National Cancer Patient Experience Survey. Background to the survey. (no date). Available at: https://www.ncpes.co.uk/faqs/#jump-collapse10010 [Last accessed May 2025]
  21. Scape. Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences. 2024. Available at: https://scape-enquete.ch/e/the-study-at-a-glance [Last accessed May 2025]
  22. Foulkes, I. We want every scientist to thrive in cancer research. Cancer Research UK. 2023. Available at: https://news.cancerresearchuk.org/2023/07/28/we-want-every-scientist-to-thrive-in-cancer-research/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  23. Wyss, K. et al. Decentralization and central and regional coordination of health services: The case of Switzerland. International Journal of Health Planning and Management. 2000. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12313560_Decentralization_and_central_and_regional_coordination_of_health_services_The_case_of_Switzerland [Last accessed May 2025]
  24. All.Can. Action Guide for Efficient Cancer Care. 2024. Available at: https://www.all-can.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/AllCanActionGuide24-1.2.7.pdf [Last accessed August 2026]
  25. The Republic of Croatia. National cancer control plan 2020 – 2030. 2019. Available at: https://www.iccp-portal.org/system/files/plans/NPPR_ENG_final.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  26. Oslo Cancer Cluster. Meet our newest members. 2023. Available at: https://oslocancercluster.no/news/meet-our-newest-members [Last accessed May 2025]
  27. Bognar, C.L.F.B. et al. Compulsory Licenses for Cancer Drugs: Does Circumventing Patent Rights Improve Access to Oncology Medications? Journal of Global Oncology. 2016. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5493268/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  28. EuroHealthNet. Financing Health Promoting Services - An Information Guide. (no date). Available at: https://health-inequalities.eu/financingguide/wp-content/uploads/sites/4/2020/01/FinancingHealthPromotion_an_information_guide.pdf [Last accessed August 2026]
  29. World Bank Group. Transforming Health: The World Bank’s Shift from Crisis Response to Building Health System Resilience in Latin America and the Caribbean. (no date). Available at: https://www.worldbank.org/en/results/2024/11/01/-transforming-health-the-world-bank-s-shift-from-crisis-response-to-building-health-system-resilience-in-latin-america-a [Last accessed May 2025]
  30. KOIS Caring Finance. Impact report. 2017. Available at: https://koisinvest.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/KOIS-Impact-Report-2017.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  31. Macaulay, R. et al. PMU80 The Italian Innovation Acceleration? Best Practice Lessons of Reimbursement incentives for Innovative Products. Value in Health. 2020. Available at: https://www.valueinhealthjournal.com/article/S1098-3015(20)31035-4/fulltext [Last accessed May 2025]
  32. Navarria, A. et al. Do the Current Performance-Based Schemes in Italy Really Work? “Success Fee”: A Novel Measure for Cost-Containment of Drug Expenditure. Value in Health. 2015. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1098301514047251 [Last accessed May 2025]
  33. NHS England. Innovative Medicines Fund. (no date). Available at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/medicines-2/innovative-medicines-fund/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  34. NHS England. Cancer Drugs Fund. (no date). Available at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/cancer/cdf/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  35. Republic of Estonia. The Government Office funds innovative cell therapy and cancer data management projects. 2024. Available at: https://www.sm.ee/en/news/government-office-funds-innovative-cell-therapy-and-cancer-data-management-projects [Last accessed August 2026]
  36. Republique Française. Artificial Intelligence in France: new support programmes available. 2024. Available at: https://www.campusfrance.org/en/actu/intelligence-artificielle-en-france-de-nouveaux-dispositifs-de-soutien [Last accessed May 2025]
  37. Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority. Nigeria Infrastructure Fund. (no date). Available at: https://nsia.com.ng/nigeria-infrastructure-fund/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  38. European Commission. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan: Commission presents first Country Cancer Profiles under the European Cancer Inequalities Registry. 2023. Available at: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_421 [Last accessed May 2025]
  39. European Commission. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council. 2021. Available at: https://health.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2022-02/eu_cancer-plan_en_0.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  40. Scholz, N. Europe’s Beating Cancer plan: Quick overview and initial reactions. European Parliamentary Research Service. 2021. Available at: https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/etudes/BRIE/2021/690526/EPRS_BRI(2021)690526_EN.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  41. European Institute of Health and Sustainable Development. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. (no date). Available at: https://eihsd.eu/european-union-beating-cancer-plan/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  42. European Commission. Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan: Implementation Roadmap. 2024. Available at: https://health.ec.europa.eu/document/download/24ff46d7-1d85-4876-b316-8ea9cb4926f3_en [Last accessed May 2025]
  43. European Commission. Mission on Cancer: Implementation Plan. 2021. Available at: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/system/files/2021-09/cancer_implementation_plan_for_publication_final_v2.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  44. European Commission. Cancer Mission implementation. (no date). Available at: https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-open-calls/horizon-europe/eu-missions-horizon-europe/eu-mission-cancer/implementation-page_en [Last accessed May 2025]
  45. European Commission. Conquering Cancer: Mission possible. 2020. Available at: https://era.gv.at/public/documents/4222/Conquering_cancer.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  46. Pashayan, N. et al. Personalized early detection and prevention of breast cancer: ENVISION consensus statement. Nat Rev Clin Oncol. 2020. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41571-020-0388-9?fromPaywallRec=true#citeas [Last accessed May 2025]
  47. AstraZeneca. AstraZeneca’s new AI technology MILTON predicts more than 1,000 diseases before diagnosis. 2024. Available at: https://www.astrazeneca.com/media-centre/medical-releases/astrazeneca-new-ai-technology-milton-predicts-more-than-1000-diseases-before-diagnosis.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  48. Garg, M. et al. Disease prediction with multi-omics and biomarkers empowers case–control genetic discoveries in the UK Biobank. Nature genetics. 2024. Available at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-024-01898-1 [Last accessed May 2025]
  49. ICPerMed International Consortium. Genomic Medicine Sweden. (no date). Available at: https://www.icpermed.eu/icpermed/best-practice-examples/genomic-medicine-sweden/ [Last accessed August 2026]
  50. Genomic Medicine Sweden. About us. (no date). Available at: https://genomicmedicine.se/en/about-us/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  51. Karolinska University Hospital. Whole Genome Sequencing Becomes Clinical Routine for All Cases of Pediatric Cancer at Karolinska University Hospital. 2024. Available at: https://www.karolinskahospital.com/news/whole-genome-sequencing-becomes-clinical-routine-for-all-cases-of-pediatric-cancer-at-karolinska-university-hospital/#:~:text=Karolinska%20University%20Hospital-,Whole%20Genome%20Sequencing%20Becomes%20Clinical%20Ro [Last accessed May 2025]
  52. Genomic Medicine Sweden. GMS and Illumina collaborate to develop whole-genome sequencing for patients with acute leukemia. 2020. Available at: https://genomicmedicine.se/en/2020/05/28/gms-illumina-whole-genome-sequencing-acute-leukemia/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  53. G2P. The BabySeq Project - Implementation of Whole Genome Sequencing as Screening in a Diverse Cohort of Healthy Infants. (no date). Available at: https://www.genomes2people.org/research/babyseq/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  54. Zeidenberg, J. Australia deploys AI in radiology across the country. Canadian Healthcare Technology. 2024. Available at: https://www.canhealth.com/2024/01/31/australia-deploys-ai-in-radiology-across-the-country/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  55. Healthcare in Europe. Medical imaging AI can ask another AI for ‘second opinion’. 2023. Available at: https://healthcare-in-europe.com/en/news/medical-imaging-ai-second-opinion.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  56. NHS England. An update on the ongoing NHS-Galleri trial. 2024. Available at: https://www.england.nhs.uk/blog/an-update-on-the-ongoing-nhs-galleri-trial/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  57. Cancer Care Ontario. Colorectal Cancer Screening Recommendations Summary. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancercareontario.ca/en/guidelines-advice/cancer-continuum/screening/resources-healthcare-providers/colorectal-cancer-screening-summary [Last accessed August 2026]
  58. BC Cancer. What is the FIT? (no date). Available at: http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/screening/colon/how-it-works/what-is-the-fit#:~:text=The%20screening%20test%20for%20colon,instructions%20provided%20in%20your%20kit [Last accessed May 2025]
  59. D’Souza, N. et al. Faecal immunochemical testing in general practice. British Journal of General Practice. 2019. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6355280/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  60. Belon, A.P. et al. Effective strategies for Fecal Immunochemical Tests (FIT) programs to improve colorectal cancer screening uptake among populations with limited access to the healthcare system: a rapid review. BMC Health Services Research. 2024. Available at: https://bmchealthservres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12913-024-10573-4 [Last accessed May 2025]
  61. Pålsson, B. Screening for colorectal cancer nationally instituted in Sweden. Lakartidningen. 2023. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371532625_Screening_for_colorectal_cancer_nationally_instituted_in_Sweden#:~:text=By%20September%202022%20all%2021%20health%20care%20regions,kit%20for%20faecal%20Hb%20and%20a%20return%20envelope [Last accessed May 2025]
  62. Swiss Biotech. SOPHiA Genetics: Collaboration with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and AstraZeneca. 2023. Available at: https://www.swissbiotech.org/listing/sophia-genetics-enters-new-collaboration-with-memorial-sloan-kettering-cancer-center-and-astrazeneca-to-address-global-inequalities-in-comprehensive-cancer-care/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  63. SOPHiA Genetics. SOPHiA GENETICS and AstraZeneca collaborate to further expand global access to liquid biopsy testing. 2024. Available at: https://www.sophiagenetics.com/press-releases/astrazeneca-collaborate-expand-global-access-liquid-biopsy-testing/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  64. UK Government. Consultation outcome: Use of digital pathology in analysis of cancer screening samples. 2023. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/use-of-digital-pathology-in-analysis-of-cancer-screening-samples [Last accessed May 2025]
  65. National Institute for Health and Care Research. Digital pathology cleared for use in cancer screening programmes. 2024. Available at: https://www.nihr.ac.uk/news/digital-pathology-cleared-use-cancer-screening-programmes [Last accessed May 2025]
  66. Livongo. Introducing AI+AI. 2018. Available at: https://www.mylivongo.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/LIvongo_Introduces_AIAI.pdf [Last accessed May 2025]
  67. Boata, A. PRIME-ROSE-A European precision cancer medicine trial network and implementation initiative funded by the EU Cancer Mission. 2023. Available at: https://rethink-health.eu/projects/prime-rose-european-precision-cancer-medicine-trial-network-and-implementation-initiative/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  68. DRUP (drug rediscovery protocol). Prospective, non-randomized Clinical Trial. (no date). Available at: https://drupstudy.nl/drupinternational/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  69. ARPA-H. ARPA-H projects aim to develop novel cancer technologies. 2023. Available at: https://arpa-h.gov/news-and-events/arpa-h-projects-aim-develop-novel-cancer-technologies [Last accessed May 2025]
  70. National Cancer Center Japan. Memorandum of Cooperation on Decentralized Clinical Trials between the Department of Medical Services and the National Cancer Center Japan. 2023. Available here: https://www.ncc.go.jp/en/information/press_release/20230627/index.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  71. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Memorial Sloan Kettering Collaborates with Global Community on the Bloomberg New Economy International Cancer Coalition to Accelerate and Expand Access to New Therapies and Clinical Trials. 2021. Available at: https://www.mskcc.org/news/msk-collaborates-global-community-bloomberg-international-cancer-coalition-accelerate-and-expand-access-new-therapies-and-clinical-trials [Last accessed May 2025]
  72. Harris, J. NCCN Launches Health Equity Report Card to Address Racial Disparities in Cancer Care. OncLive. 2023. Available at: https://www.onclive.com/view/nccn-launches-health-equity-report-card-to-address-racial-disparities-in-care [Last accessed May 2025]
  73. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Cancer Center Study Demonstrates Usability of Health Equity Report Card Tool for Driving Fair Access to Care. 2024. Available at: https://jnccn.org/view/journals/jnccn/22/10/article-pxviii.xml [Last accessed May 2025]
  74. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. AI Airlock: the regulatory sandbox for AIaMD. 2024. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/ai-airlock-the-regulatory-sandbox-for-aiamd#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20AI%20Airlock,novel%20regulatory%20challenges%20for%20AIaMD [Last accessed May 2025]
  75. All.Can. Diagnostic Assessment Programs in Ontario, Canada. (no date). Available at: https://www.all-can.org/efficiency-hub/diagnostic-assessment-programs-in-ontario-canada/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  76. European Commission. SmartCARE. (no date). Available at: https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/cancer/europes-beating-cancer-plan-is health-financed-projects/projects/smartcare_en [Last accessed May 2025]
  77. American Cancer Society. ACS CARES. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services/acs-cares.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  78. American Cancer Society. Global Patient Support. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/about-us/our-global-health-work/cancer-care-patient-support.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  79. American Cancer Society. How the American Cancer Society Supports Patient Navigation. 2024. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/patient-navigation/how-american-cancer-society-supports-patient-navigation.html [Last accessed May 2025]
  80. Accenture. Navify Tumor Board: Improving Cancer Care. (no date). Available at: https://www.accenture.com/hu-en/case-studies/life-sciences/improving-cancer-care [Last accessed May 2025]
  81. Roche. Navify digital solutions: Tumor Board. 2021. Available at: https://navify.roche.com/marketplace/products/navify-clinical-hub-for-tumor-boards#features [Last accessed May 2025]
  82. University of Gothenburg. MyCode – digital tools for emotional support during and after cancer treatment on young adults’ terms. 2023. Available at: https://www.gu.se/en/research/mycode-digital-tools-for-emotional-support-during-and-after-cancer-treatment-on-young-adults-terms [Last accessed May 2025]
  83. Cancer Research UK Forum. Cancer Chat. (no date). Available at: https://cancerchat.cancerresearchuk.org [Last accessed May 2025]
  84. National Cancer Institute. About NORCP. (no date). Available at: https://ncorp.cancer.gov/about/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  85. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Creates Innovative Telemedicine Platform to Provide Patients Greater Access to Care. 2022. Available at: https://www.mskcc.org/news-releases/mskcc-creates-innovative-telemedicine-platform-provide-patients-greater-access-care [Last accessed May 2025]
  86. Shaverdian, N. et al. Impact of telemedicine on patient satisfaction and perceptions of care quality in radiation oncology. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. 2021. Available at: https://jnccn.org/view/journals/jnccn/19/10/article-p1174.xml?content=pdf-7340 [Last accessed May 2025]
  87. All.Can. oPuce: supporting employment of people living with and beyond cancer. (no date). Available at: https://www.all-can.org/efficiency-hub/opuce-supporting-employment-of-people-living-with-and-beyond-cancer/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  88. Parkinson, M. et al. iCanWork: Steps to return to work for Cancer Survivors. Cancer and Work. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancerandwork.ca/icanwork-steps-to-return-to-work-for-cancer-survivors/ [Last accessed May 2025]
  89. American Cancer Society. Programs and Resources to Help With Cancer-related Expenses. (no date). Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/financial-insurance-matters/managing-health-insurance/programs-and-resources-to-help-with-cancer-related-expenses.html [Last accessed May 2025]