The Department of Medical Services, Ministry of Public Health, has joined forces with all parties to advance Thailand’s lung health agenda through the “Lung Health Policy Forum: Breathing Matters - A Policy Vision for Stronger Lung Health for Thai People”. The forum aims to accelerate action on lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while promoting equitable access to innovative screening and treatment from the earliest stages of disease. The initiative seeks to sustainably improve the quality of life of Thai patients and strengthen the country’s lung health system.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global number of new cancer cases is projected to rise from approximately 20 million to nearly 35 million annually by 2050. Asia accounts for more than half of all cancer cases worldwide, and lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death globally, including in Thailand. To address these challenges, WHO has outlined three key strategic priorities – Better Capabilities, Better Protections, and Better Value – to strengthen health systems, protect patients, and maximize the value of innovation and research while ensuring equitable access to effective treatment.
