Volume 27, Issue 3 (11-2025)
yafte 2025, 27(3): 109-119 |
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Arvin P, Behzadifar M. Prevention of Gastrointestinal Cancers in Lorestan Province: A policy brief. yafte 2025; 27 (3) :109-119
URL: http://yafte.lums.ac.ir/article-1-3863-en.html
URL: http://yafte.lums.ac.ir/article-1-3863-en.html
Lorestan University of Medical Sciences
Abstract: (161 Views)
Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly gastrointestinal cancers, impose a significant burden on health systems worldwide. Lorestan province in Iran, with high prevalence of risk factors and rising incidence of stomach and esophageal cancers, requires the development and implementation of effective prevention policies. This policy brief aims to analyze the current situation and provide a comprehensive set of policy options for preventing gastrointestinal cancers in the province. Findings indicate that the existing approach is overly treatment-oriented and lacks a comprehensive socio-economic perspective. Key challenges include increasing risk factors (unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, obesity), limited diagnostic resources, policy instability, service dispersion, and the impact of sanctions. Conversely, strengths such as the cancer registry system, electronic health information systems, health and food security task forces, and scientific experts provide a favorable foundation for action. Proposed policy options are categorized into six main areas: (1) risk factor management (hepatitis vaccination, obesity control, promotion of physical activity), (2) community-based screening (fecal occult blood testing, expanded access to colonoscopy), (3) public awareness enhancement (media campaigns, trained support personnel), (4) increased service accessibility (mobile clinics, mailed kits, free screening), (5) development of clinical guidelines and provider capacity building, and (6) leveraging technology (electronic health records, remote screening). Successful implementation of these policies requires long-term planning, sustainable financing, strengthened intersectoral collaboration, and a focus on prevention over treatment. The brief emphasizes that combating gastrointestinal cancers is only feasible through an integrated approach involving all stakeholders and addressing social determinants of health.
Keywords: Gastrointestinal cancer, prevention, health policy, Lorestan province, risk factors, screening
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Received: 2025/10/7 | Accepted: 2025/10/16 | Published: 2025/11/1
Received: 2025/10/7 | Accepted: 2025/10/16 | Published: 2025/11/1
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