Leveraging Implementation Science to Optimize Strategies for Cancer Control in Mexico and Latin America

PURPOSE Coordinated efforts to bridge cancer control research and practice in Latin America are desperately needed to advance global cancer control equity. Although implementation science applied to this issue is growing in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs), major gaps remain. The purpose of the effort described below was to establish the Leveraging Implementation Science to Optimize Strategies (LISTOS) for Cancer Control Center to advance equitable uptake, use, and sustainment of effective cancer control interventions in Mexico and Latin America by strengthening implementation research and capacity. METHODS A transdisciplinary team of investigators in Mexico and the U.S. engaged researchers, and community and stakeholder partners to identify priorities for advancing cancer control through implementation science in Latin America. Supported by the National Cancer Institute’s Global Implementation Science for Equitable Cancer Control initiative, LISTOS was established. The goal is to bridge critical gaps in cancer control by enhancing implementation research capacity and conducting impactful research to promote equitable uptake, utilization, and sustainability of effective cancer control interventions. Rooted in the concept of readiness (“listos” in Spanish), the center focuses on preparing organizations and research teams to optimize the implementation of evidence-based cancer control interventions. RESULTS LISTOS encompasses two subthemes: 1) adapting EBIs and implementation strategies to align with diverse populations and settings, and, 2) developing strategies to enhance and expedite the adoption, integration, scale-up, and sustainability of EBIs. The team planned two initial studies to tackle implementation challenges related to adaptation and implementation of colorectal cancer screening in primary care and implementation of integrated care for timely diagnosis of breast cancer. Breast cancer and colorectal cancer are among the most burdensome cancers in Mexico, and preventive and early detection interventions that can greatly improve their control. CONCLUSION LISTOS endeavors to drive significant advancements in cancer control implementation science, ultimately leading to improved cancer outcomes and reduced disparities in the region.