Sponsored session - Catalyzing global action on lung cancer: A focus on secondary prevention

Session organised by Lung Ambition Alliance.

Chaired by Paul Burstow, Former Health Minister (United Kingdom)

Welcome and introductions: Cary Adams, CEO of UICC (Switzerland)

Andre Ilbawi, Technical lead, cancer control, World Health Organization

Panel:

Dr Christian Finlay, Expert Lead at the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Canada

Dr Murallitharan Munisamy, Director at National Cancer Society Malaysia

Ebba Hallersjö Hult, Head, Vision Zero Cancer, Sweden

Dr. Gilberto Lopez, Professor of Clinical Medicine, Medical Director for International Programs, Associate Director for Global Oncology Chief, Division of Medical Oncology Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami and the Miller School of Medicine

Description:

Lung cancer kills 1.8 million people a year, more people than any other cancer worldwide, but it is survivable if detected and treated early.

Given its high prevalence and late presentation, earlier detection of lung cancer would confer significant benefits to people at risk of developing the disease. Shifting detection to earlier stages would reduce morbidity and mortality from lung cancer as well as reduce its economic burden. Earlier diagnosis of lung cancer significantly increases five-year survival from less than 10% (stage four) to 68% to 92% (stage one) and has the dual financial benefit of reducing healthcare costs.

Currently, around the world efforts are primarily focused on primary prevention of lung cancer and risk reduction through tobacco control and smoking sensation strategies; but there is a need to look beyond this to tackle the lung cancer burden. In May, the Lung Cancer Collaboration launched their White Paper report, calling on urgent, global, coordinated action on lung cancer. This meeting will aim to look at strategies and prioritisation of secondary prevention, through earlier detection and screening.