The fight against cancer took a significant step forward at the Institute of Global Health in Geneva, where international experts gathered on 19 September 2024 for a high-level conference to address the ongoing challenges in cancer prevention, treatment, and care. The event brought together oncologists, public health leaders, and policymakers from across the globe to share insights, compare regional experiences, and chart a path toward more equitable and effective cancer care.
A global perspective on cancer
Speakers from regions as diverse as China, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Europe provided a comprehensive overview of the similarities and differences in their approaches to combating cancer. The discussions were enriched by contributions from prominent organizations such as the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the World Federation of Public Health Associations, and the IARC/WHO Scientific Council.
As Marcel Tanner, Director emeritus of the Swiss Tropical & Public Health Institute, remarked during the opening session, “By understanding the unique challenges faced by different regions and learning from their successes, we can move closer to a coordinated global strategy against cancer.”
Insights from the plenary sessions
The conference was structured around three plenary sessions that addressed critical aspects of the cancer battle:
- Tackling the Implementation Gap:
Experts such as Ying Wang (China Anti-Cancer Association) and Eduardo L. Cazap (Latin-American & Caribbean Society of Medical Oncology) explored how innovation can be better integrated into healthcare systems. Discussions emphasized the need for infrastructure, investment, and political will to ensure that advanced diagnostics and treatments reach all populations. - Age, Early Detection, and Chronic Pain:
The second session featured contributions from Kenji Lopez-Cuevas (Cáncer Warriors of México Foundation) and C.S. Pramesh (Tata Memorial Hospital, India). Speakers highlighted the role of early detection and the management of chronic pain as pivotal in improving outcomes, particularly in under-resourced regions. - Coordination of Cancer Plans and the Role of Data:
Leaders like Zisis Kozlakidis (IARC/WHO) and Dato’ Dr Saunthari Somasundaram (National Cancer Society Malaysia) emphasized how data-driven approaches can improve coordination among cancer plans globally. The use of data was recognized as a vital tool for tailoring interventions, tracking progress, and ensuring resources are deployed effectively.
Addressing the broader impact of cancer
Throughout the conference, speakers addressed the economic and societal costs of cancer, emphasizing how the disease affects not just individuals and families but entire health systems and economies. Rising costs in diagnosis, treatment, and indirect losses in workforce productivity were noted as urgent challenges requiring immediate attention.
Call to action
In his closing remarks, Denis Horgan, our Secretary General, stressed the importance of aligning medical advances with political action. “Cancer care does not operate in isolation. To truly make a difference, policymakers must invest in infrastructure, support cancer research, and prioritize large-scale screening programs,” he stated.
Experience the insights through our video gallery
For those unable to attend, the conference’s most impactful moments have been captured in our video gallery, featuring interviews with key speakers and highlights from the day’s discussions.
