IAEA International Atomic Energy Agency Overview of the Panel Discussion I: Tackling Cancer Fifth Session of Islamic Conference of Health Ministers Istanbul, Republic of Turkey, 17 – 19 Nov 2015

IAEA Panel Objectives To address the need for comprehensive cancer control and for implementation of evidence- based interventions tailored to level of resources available with Ministers of Heath. To share regional best practices Promote regional coordination mechanisms in cancer control planning and implementation in order to strengthen health systems.

IAEA A high-level panel representing different cancer stakeholders advocated for :  Comprehensive cancer control and  A number of critical issues that need to be considered to strengthen the health systems to effectively address cancer. Panel Objectives

IAEA Speakers

IAEA Professor Sanchia Aranda Highlighted the importance of National Cancer Control Plans as a critical component of tackling cancer:  Help understanding the burden of cancer within communities and prioritize activities NGOs are critical stakeholders:  Work with Governments to set the agenda in cancer control  Convene conversations between all stakeholders  Help addressing stigma  Raise awareness within communities

IAEA Dr Daouda Malle Highlighted the importance of investing in cancer:  Not only to save lives but because it makes “financial sense”  Every year millions of people are pushed into poverty due to catastrophic expenditures caused by illnesses  Not investing in cancer would have similar consequences to not investing in education and it would be very expensive in the long run Highlighted the importance of Leadership and Political Commitment Need to equip Ministers of Health with the right arguments to drive the priority of investing in cancer

IAEA Dr Shilpen Patel Highlighted the critical role of Early Detection  Less expensive  Organ preservation  Less aggressive treatment  Improved Survival Highlighted the rising burden of cancer worldwide, especially in developing countries  Shortage/absence of Radiotherapy equipment  Role of NGOs to improve access to radiotherapy by partnering with Ministries and local authorities/leaders Cancer represents an “imminent crisis for developing countries” as indicated by IAEA Director General

IAEA Assoc. Prof Dr Murat Gultekin Highlighted the rising burden for OIC Countries Importance of Prevention Critical role of National Cancer Control Plans  58% of OIC countries have no NCCP Need to strengthen Health Systems  Critical role of Cancer Registries Need to raise awareness and address Myths Need to have a Comprehensive Cancer Approach – from Prevention to Palliative Care  No access to palliation in many OIC countries

IAEA Istanbul Islamic Conference of Health Ministers Call for Action 9

IAEA Call for Action 1 1. Set up National Cancer Control Committees (NCCC) representing all national stakeholders involved in the fight against cancer, including patient and community groups; 10

IAEA Call for Action 2 2. Under the leadership and coordination of the NCCCs, develop or update National Comprehensive Cancer Control Plans (NCCP), with input from all stakeholders, and including: a) relevant estimated budgeting for all activities identified; b) activities covered by national budgets and those requiring mobilization of new resources for potential consideration by donors; and c) the identification of priority activities that build on existing health systems and structures. 11

IAEA Call for Action 3 3. Prioritize the development of accessible, affordable, quality and responsive cancer care services to tackle cancer as one of the leading causes of disease of their populations. 12