The International Cancer Prevention Consortium

Abstract

Background and context: The burden of cancers in LMIC and countries with civil strife is enormous and disturbing and the availability of cancer prevention, control and management in these countries is very minimal with no priority due to lack of holistic approach and care of cancers. The lack of diagnostic and therapeutic facilities, lack of trained human resources, shortage of chemotherapeutic and narcotic drugs is evident. Education and training for human resource development and research is very minimal. Appreciating WHO and IARC reports the Oman Cancer Association committed to develop with other partners, a pragmatic solution that will bridge the gap between the developed and rich countries and the LMIC to work together and support the unfortunate communities and improve their socioeconomic status and reduce the cancer burden in these countries. Aim: To find a mechanism to bridge the gap between the developed and rich countries with the low- and middle-income country and countries with civil strife where cancers control is not a priority. Strategy/Tactics: Identify countries, academic institutions and private corporate sectors who are prepared to work together to support the communities in the LMIC and control cancer prevention. To develop in education and training program for human resource development. Support these countries in awareness programs and treatment of cancer patients. Program/Policy process: To develop an administrative structure to develop: 1. Research programs to identify and priorities the needs in these countries. 2. Work with students who have been awarded grants from the developed countries to their research in LMIC. 3. Develop education and training workshops in awareness, palliative care, pain relief, data registry, research and leadership training in spirituality for terminally ill patients. Outcomes: 1. 24 countries have joined the partnership. 2. At least 100 health care providers have benefited from trainings. 3. Donation of diagnostic and therapeutic equipment 4. Support the availability of medication What was learned: This program has created awareness in the developed and rich countries in the need of supporting cancer patients in LMIC and countries with civil strife.