First Global Summit on War and Cancer: The Hidden Impact of War on Cancer—Urging Global Action for Change

Abstract

The 1st Global Summit on War and Cancer (GSWC) united leaders, medical professionals, policymakers, and advocates to address cancer issues in conflict zones featuring speakers from around 50 countries.

The 1st Global Summit on War and Cancer (GSWC) was a unique initiative organized by the Institute of Cancer and Crisis and OncoDaily, which brought together global leaders, passionate medical professionals, policymakers, and advocates to confront challenges faced by patients with cancer in the shadows of war. The summit united hundreds of participants from around 50 different countries across the globe.

Director General of the WHO Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and Princess Dina Mired of Jordan, Honorary President of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer and Patron of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology, delivered opening address. Dr Tedros emphasized the critical importance of paying attention to patients with cancer in conflict zones. During his insightful speech, he mentioned that there are no emergency kits to treat patients with cancer and no field hospitals to provide comprehensive cancer care, highlighting their vulnerability and lack of access to essential resources in challenging circumstances. His address set the tone for the summit, emphasizing the urgent need for action and collaboration.

Princess Dina provided a heartfelt account of the situation in the world parts affected by conflict, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions and support for patients with cancer. She passionately conveyed her sentiments regarding the tragic events unfolding in 2023 during the war in Gaza. She spoke of the immense anguish felt by herself and countless others worldwide. “This global summit is called global summit on war and cancer. It should now be called ‘global summit on the cancer of silence during war'.”—mentioned Her Royal Highness expressing deep disappointment with the unacceptable double standards by the global community at large. She continued—“Cancer loves wars. Because wars provide its safety from annihilation. Wars provide sparse terrain with no opposition for its deadly work. No chemotherapy in sight, no radiotherapy, surgery and all the other tools to stop its deadly advance. Cancer simply thrives in refugee bodies.”

The GSWC featured diverse speakers who shared their expertise and experiences in addressing cancer care in conflict zones, from Sudan to Ukraine, from Gaza to Nagorno-Karabakh, from Mexico to Ethiopia, and from Syria to Northern Ireland and Iraq.^1-5 Notable speakers included Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer of the ASCO, who discussed the role of international organizations during and after the conflicts; the President of the European Cancer Organization—Andreas Charalambous, Director of the Institute of Cancer Policy—Richard Sullivan, and Past President of the Union for International Cancer Control—Tezer Kuluk, and many others.

The take-home messages emphasize the vital importance of research as a necessity rather than a luxury. They highlight the need for tailored approaches to address critical situations worldwide, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all solution is inadequate. This understanding allows us to foster a more compassionate and effective response to diverse challenges. By acknowledging the unique needs of each situation, we can work toward creating a world where every individual receives the special treatment they require. We can bring about positive change through dedicated research and adaptable strategies, foster inclusivity, and ensure that no one is left behind.

As Professor Mark Lawler, a distinguished oncologist, stated, “I can already tell that it will continue for many years because it addresses important questions we need to answer,” we are hopeful and committed to keeping it going and making a meaningful difference.

AUTHOR CONTRIBUTIONS

Conception and design: All authors

Administrative support: Jemma Arakelyan, Tatevik Margaryan, Gevorg Tamamyan

Provision of study materials or patients: Jemma Arakelyan, Gevorg Tamamyan

Collection and assembly of data: Jemma Arakelyan, Maria Babak, Gevorg Tamamyan

Data analysis and interpretation: Jemma Arakelyan, Maria Babak, Gevorg Tamamyan

Manuscript writing: All authors

Final approval of manuscript: All authors

Accountable for all aspects of the work: All authors

AUTHORS' DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

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