Cancer burden and control in China

Cancer is one of the major health issues in China, with approximately 3,929,000 new cases and 2,338,000 deaths in 2015. Due to ageing and extended life expectancy, the cancer burden will continue to increase. Variation of geographical distribution and transition of cancer spectrum are the main characteristics of cancer in China, which, to some extent, increase the difficulty of cancer prevention and control. Since 2012, a series of measures have been taken to reduce cancer burden, such as Healthy China 2030 strategy and The Mid-term and Long-term Plan for Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases in China (2017–25). And the China Government has shifted its focus to massive screening programs in recent years. Nevertheless, some key questions are still existed. Future screening blueprint should also take into account how to improve screening scheme and construct an effective assessment methodology which is suitable to current national condition. Meanwhile, primary prevention and tertiary prevention also play a vital role in cancer prevention and control which can’t be ignored.