Cancer is a leading cause of premature death globally, disproportionately impacting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where more than 70% of cancer deaths occur, Patients in these settings face stark gaps in diagnosis, treatment, and survival compared to those in high-income countries. By 2040, LMICs are projected to see the majority of new cancer cases, yet today, only 15% of these countries have access to comprehensive cancer care services.
For nearly 30 years, The Max Foundation (Max) has worked in more than 80 countries to close these gaps, recognizing that access to medicine alone is not enough. Patients continue to encounter deep systemic barriers that prevent timely, affordable, and sustained care. Building on its global experience, robust infrastructure, and trusted partnerships, The Max Foundation is uniquely positioned to respond to this urgent challenge and advance efforts to expand equitable access to treatment worldwide.
By 2030, Max aims to double its impact, reaching 100,000 patients annually by expanding therapies and diagnostics, growing its provider network, and addressing more diseases.
Announced at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York City on September 24, 2025, The Max Foundation is now setting an ambitious goal to double its impact and reach 100,000 patients annually by 2030.
In partnership with pharmaceutical, diagnostic, and philanthropic leaders, Max commits to investing in scaling breakthrough access to cancer care, strengthening local health systems, and supporting patients worldwide. This bold commitment will enhance local health system capabilities to deliver both innovative and generic medicines, diagnostics, and care to patients.
Our Commitment
Building on years of experience and strong pharmaceutical partnerships, Max is pursuing three strategies:
(1) expanding availability and access to medicines
(2) strengthening local cancer care systems and wraparound services
(3) mobilizing innovative financing models to support country-led sustainability
The approach builds on Max’s established infrastructure, longstanding pharmaceutical partnerships, and proven expertise in global access, anchored by a deep commitment to health equity. Max currently works with nine pharmaceutical and diagnostics partners to provide 15 therapies across 14 cancer types. Through a trusted network of 495 physicians in 378 institutions, Max has supported over 100,000 patients to date, leveraging technology platforms to monitor outcomes and refine its global programs.
As part of this wider effort, Novartis is extending its long-standing collaboration with Max to continue broadening cancer care in LMICs. Over the next five years, the collaboration will deliver treatment and support services for patients living with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), metastatic breast cancer, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), and rare cancers such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). It also aims to strengthen local healthcare systems by engaging with governments, hospitals, and healthcare professionals.
“Together with our partners we believe it is essential to make a multi-million-dollar investment to change the lives of people diagnosed with cancer in LMICs over the next five years,” said Pat Garcia-Gonzalez Co-founder and CEO of The Max Foundation. “We hope many more organizations and individuals will recognize the tremendous opportunity to alleviate human suffering, strengthen health systems, and create a sustainable system of cancer care for patients in the future.”
Partner Voices
“Amid rising cancer rates in LMICs, The Max Foundation provides a vital blueprint for collaboration by uniting physicians, local health systems, and global partners to transform patient outcomes. In Peru, our partnership brings renewed hope to patients and their families.”
Karla Ruiz de Castilla, President of Esperantra. Peru
“In Nepal, The Max Foundation is removing financial and treatment barriers for children with cancer, transforming care, strengthening the health system, and ensuring every child’s right to live.”
Dr. Sucharita Tuladhar Pediatric Hematologist-Oncologist in Patan Hospital, Nepal
“For the past 24 years, The Max Foundation continues to advance Kenya’s cancer programs. Its 2021 partnership with the Ministry ensures patients with CML and breast cancer receive free treatment at major hospitals, expanding access and saving lives.”
Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Kenya
“Women are often the backbone of their families, communities, and workplaces, yet those diagnosed with breast cancer routinely lack access to essential care and social support, The challenge is even greater in low- and middle-income countries, where more than half of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the urgent need for timely diagnosis and treatment. To help close this gap in access to quality healthcare, the ABC Global Alliance is committed to supporting The Max Foundation in its mission to reach 100,000 patients each year.”
Dr. Fatima Cardoso, medical oncologist and President, ABC (Advanced Breast Cancer) Global Alliance
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