The Global Coalition for Radiotherapy (GCR) is a member of the Emergencies and Crises Network, actively participating in crucial meetings addressing emergencies in Ukraine and Palestine. The European Cancer Organisation (ECO) established the Emergencies and Crises Network to create an opportunity for cancer professionals and patient advocates to come together to meet the urgent needs of patients, minimize disruptions to cancer care, and foster stronger collaboration among oncology centers across Europe.
As part of the Emergencies and Crises Network and in collaboration with our Radiotherapy Task Force, including individuals and organizations, we issue a statement on the ongoing conflict in Israel-Palestine.
GCR STATEMENT ON Israel-PALESTINE
7 Aug 2024
As the Global Coalition for Radiotherapy, we stand united in our commitment to support the needs of cancer patients worldwide, irrespective of geographical and political boundaries. The ongoing conflict in the Israel-Palestine region continues to intensify, creating a critical and urgent situation for cancer patients and healthcare providers.
We stand with the European Cancer Organization’s Emergencies and Crises Network along with individuals and cancer care organizations around the world in an effort to support immediate and coordinated actions for the needs of cancer patients affected by this conflict.
Cancer patients are among the most vulnerable populations, requiring continuous and timely access to care, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and other essential treatments. In times of conflict, these patients face additional challenges such as disruptions in medical services, shortages of essential medicines, and limited access to healthcare facilities. The resulting delays and interruptions in treatment can have devastating consequences on their health and well-being, further exacerbating their horrific realities during devastating conflict.
MANIFESTO ON IMPROVING CANCER CARE IN CONFLICT- IMPACTED POPULATIONS
The ECO Emergencies and Crises Network published the manifesto, “Improving cancer care in conflict-impacted populations” in The Lancet and OncoDaily. Developed by a team of international cancer leaders, they outline seven key priorities to safeguard cancer services in times of conflict.
The GCR, along with the many organizations comprising the Emergencies and Crises Network, endorses this document. Furthermore, we encourage our community to support the implementation of these policies to improve the care provided to cancer patients in conflict-affected areas.
GET INVOLVED
We invite you to join our Radiotherapy Task Force by signing up on our Contact page and indicating your interest in participating. Additionally, please register for the webinar we will be hosting on Tue, Oct 22 12:30-1:30 BST / 7:30-8:30 ET to learn more about the radiotherapy inequities in the region. We look forward to your participation.
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