Factors shaping the priority of cancer in global health: a qualitative policy analysis

Despite its rising epidemiological and economic burden, cancer remains under-prioritised in global health. This Health Policy examines the determinants that have shaped the global response to cancer. Drawing on interviews with key global health stakeholders, we identify recurrent patterns of fragmentation, donor-driven agendas, commercial influence, and the privileging of cancers and interventions that align with vertical delivery models. Our analysis also foregrounds radiotherapy and surgery as emblematic system-dependent modalities that struggle to gain traction despite strong economic and clinical evidence for investment. The complexity of cancer further constrains global prioritisation. This Health Policy advances understanding of why cancer remains unevenly prioritised compared with other global health issues and why cancer is an increasing health burden. Addressing cancer as a global health priority requires a unified governance platform, coherent narrative across institutions, stronger drive for domestic resource mobilisation and international financing, and alignment between global initiatives and the capacities and priorities of diverse health systems.