Cancer care in Bangladesh: an urgent need for strategic intervention and comprehensive reform

Bangladesh is facing a growing cancer burden with rising incidence and mortality rates. Limited healthcare infrastructure, high costs, and a shortage of trained professionals contribute to inadequate cancer care, especially in rural areas. Although the country has implemented the “Multisectoral Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases” to improve cancer care, significant gaps remain in access to diagnostic tools, specialized treatment, and affordable cancer drugs. Community-based screening programs for breast and cervical cancer have been introduced, but have limited coverage. Efforts to establish comprehensive cancer centers in each division and integrate advanced technologies, like AI, are underway to enhance early diagnosis, treatment, and surveillance. There is a need for improved healthcare governance, sustainable financing, and collaboration among various sectors to manage and reduce the cancer burden in Bangladesh effectively. Establishing a National cancer registry, expanding access to specialized care, and enhancing research capabilities are crucial steps for improving cancer care management.