PH-Sweden launches strategic partnership for cancer control

The Philippines and Sweden launched a strategic partnership on Friday to accelerate cancer control efforts in the Philippines. 

The Sweden-Philippines partnership in cancer care was formalized through a Letter of Intent (LoI) signing ceremony and noted it would span initiatives across the entire cancer care continuum, with the key focus on cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment, in line with the National Integrated Cancer Control Act.

“Under Sweden’s strategy for trade, investment, and global competitiveness and its new and long-term promotion initiative in Asia, Sweden is strengthening its engagement in the Philippines with a capacity-building agenda across several industries,” said the Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade of Sweden, Mr. Håkan Jevrell. 

Among those present during the signing ceremony are Foreign Trade of Sweden, Mr. Håkan Jevrell, and Dr. Jan Aura Llevado, Chief of Cancer Control and Mental Health Divisions, Department of Health. 

As Sweden is leading the global cancer control effort with advanced care focused on early detection and prevention, cancer care partnership is said to be a top priority given its potential for significant impact in the Philippines. 

Jevrell highlighted having a multidisciplinary approach to cancer therapy and integrated treatment, palliative care, and survivorship programs to support patients throughout their journey.

Cancer research, clinical trials, and innovative treatment options are also prioritized.

“Bataan is spearheading the national government’s universal health coverage rollout, which synergizes well with our cancer care partnership with Sweden,” said Bataan Governor Jose Enrique Garcia III. 

As cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the Philippines, the Vice President of Cancer Coalition Philippines, Carmen Auste, stressed that the screening rates are among the lowest regionally. 

Most patients are seen at an advanced stage,” she said. 

“This collaboration with Sweden is a breakthrough moment. Sweden, as a global leader in cancer management, brings a high level of experience and expertise, and we eagerly anticipate the launch of the first joint initiative,” she added. 

— LA, GMA Integrated News