US-based National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Vietnam National Cancer Hospital and the Vietnam Cancer Association to collaborate on improving cancer care standards in Vietnam.

Five representatives from NCCN visited Hanoi to sign the MoU and pilot the development of NCCN Harmonized Guidelines specifically tailored for Vietnam.

NCCN CEO Robert Carlson said: “We are honoured to collaborate with in-country experts to develop and validate Vietnamese harmonisations (and subsequent translations) of NCCN Guidelines.

“We can improve outcomes and quality-of-life for patients with cancer throughout the country by standardising practices and addressing language barriers.”

NCCN Guidelines are claimed to be the standard for cancer care and provide evidence-based recommendations for various types of cancer.

During the visit, a pilot version of NCCN Harmonized Guidelines for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer was created.

The next phase involves developing harmonisations for the top ten cancer types with the highest incidence in Vietnam.

The guidelines will also be translated into Vietnamese.

NCCN’s goal is to expand access to high-quality cancer care globally, and there are over 250 translations of the guidelines in multiple languages at present.

Vietnam National Cancer Hospital director-chairperson professor Le Van Quang said: “We look forward to building off the highly regarded NCCN Guidelines, taking into account our local circumstances, physiologic and risk differences, accessibility, regulations, and technology, to better serve people with cancer across Vietnam.

“By making the highest standards in evidence-based care more accessible, we can help all of our patients to live better lives.”

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