The spread of cancer has become a major public health concern in OIC member countries, which is adversely affecting socio-economic efforts of government and partners. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 60% of the world’s new cancer cases and 70% of all cancer deaths occur in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, regions in which most OIC member countries are located. Unfortunately, many of these countries are not able to provide the level of affordable cancer services required to meet the increasing demand. More than half of the OIC member countries lack the capacities to tackle chronic diseases or address their major underlying causes. To highlight this challenge and in line with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) mission of fostering comprehensive human development in its MCs, a side event on Improving Lives and Wellness in OIC Countries: Prevention, Early Detection & Treatment of Cancer was held on 16 May 2017, during the 42^nd Annual Meeting of the Islamic Development Bank Group.

The event brought to the forefront the current situation of cancer and the underlying risks factors in OIC MCs and provided a platform for exchanging ideas, networking opportunities and paving the way for establishing cooperation among institutions, NGOs, universities and private entities to fight cancer which is one of the leading causes of death globally.

The event hosted a number of First Ladies from OIC MCs who made opening remarks where they renewed their commitment to expand cancer prevention and control. This was followed by a panel discussion hosting leading speakers from governments, NGOs, universities and development institutions and was moderated by Mr. Mehmet Fatih Serenli, Director, Training and Technical Cooperation Department SESRIC.

Document:

• Improving Lives and Wellness in OIC Countries (English)

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