Global Health Council 37th Annual Conference: Dateline 2010: Global Health Goals

This session will highlight the challenges posed by the growing burden of cancer in developing countries and featuring some initiatives to address these challenges.
Participants should be able to
Describe some of the main challenges of cancer in developing countries and some initiatives to address these challenges. Understand the policy/advocacy and research agendas related to cancer in developing countries.

Presentations:
Listening to GHC Members: Report out on the Global Health Council's Cancer Control Learning and Advocacy Initiative. The Initiative has several components, including focus groups conducted with key stakeholders at GHC's 2009 International Conference, a literature review, a survey of GHC members, two cancer related events on understanding cancer and barriers to cancer control in developing countries, and a series of working group meetings. The take-home message will be highlighting the cancer research and policy agendas.

Using Technology and Social Media to Support Patient Advocacy. The internet and new social media tools provide many opportunities for engagement. For people dealing with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) -- whether patients, patient groups, caregivers or healthcare professionals -- CML Earth is a global interactive social network dedicated to connecting the CML community from around the world. This session will present a demonstration of CML Earth, a global program that allows CML patients to connect with each other all over the world.

Responding to the Growing Problem of Tobacco Use. The need for effective tobacco control in developing countries is growing daily, as tobacco products are proliferated around the world. With effective messages and policies, progress can be made to stem the expansion and use of tobacco, and prevent cancer and other tobacco-related diseases. American Cancer Society uses evidence-based strategies to curb the use and subsequent harmful effects of tobacco through powerful advocacy campaigns. This presentation will offer visuals and engaging methods for mobilizing media, youth, and other players for effective campaigns.