Cancer in the Context of Global Health: A Gap in Understanding Among Global Health Leaders
Rachel M. Glicksman, Eleni Giannopoulos, Meredith E. Giuliani, David A. Jaffray, Mary K. GospodarowiczPURPOSE
Cancer is a leading global health issue. It is unclear how global health leaders who are not directly or actively involved in cancer care perceive the importance of and opportunities within cancer control. We sought to examine their views on past, current, and future opportunities to optimize global cancer control.
METHODS
We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth, one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with internationally recognized health thought leaders external to the field of cancer using purposive sampling. Interviews took place virtually from 2023 to 2024 and were recorded and transcribed, which were read and coded using thematic analysis with the aim of achieving thematic saturation.
RESULTS
Twenty-seven individuals were contacted to participate: 18 (67%) responded to the invitation and 16 (59%) agreed to an interview. Six common overarching themes emerged from the interviews and were used to frame the analysis, including (1) Cancer is not well represented on the global health agenda; (2) Despite progress, cancer treatment is perceived to be costly and ineffective; (3) The concerns about treatment cost drive an emphasis on prevention; (4) The complexity of cancer control is a barrier; (5) Science and technology offer immense opportunity; and (6) Investment in cancer must rise to meet the need.
CONCLUSION
Strong perceptions of cancer-related challenges and opportunities exist among health experts; understanding these opinions is crucial to advance cancer control and care.