Reflecting on a Legacy: Professor Jeff Dunn’s 2 year Presidency at UICC

Prof. Jeff Dunn AO was elected as President of the UICC on October 11, 2022.

Jeff Dunn AO has served as President of the Union for International Cancer Control for the 2022-2024 term.

“Much of the UICC success sits with our members who have struggled and prevailed during the pandemic. Let’s make sure that we get even closer to our members so that globally we can make a difference. Let’s listen to the patient voice.

Every year 20 million newly diagnosed join that group and each and everyone of them is important to us. And let’s make sure that the gaps in care that we see within and between countries are addressed. Thank you for letting me serve as your President. I embark on this journey with humility and confidence.” – Prof. Jeff Dunn AO

In 2022, at the General Assembly, UICC full members welcomed the new President, Prof. Jeff Dunn AO, while past President HRH Princess Dina Mred shared her reflections:

“As you can see, we have an outstanding group of people to choose from and I am proud that UICC has attracted such expertise, knowledge and experience.” -HRH Princess Dina Mired, Immediate Past President of UICC

He holds the position of Chief of Mission and Head of Research at the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. Additionally, he is a Professor of Social and Behavioural Science and serves as Chair of Cancer Survivorship at the University of Southern Queensland.

Jeff also contributes as a Board Member and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee for the West Moreton Hospital and Health Service. With over 30 years of experience in cancer control, he has committed his career to creating and implementing strategies that enhance cancer survival rates and raise awareness about the disease. His research particularly emphasizes the social and behavioral dimensions of cancer.

In his extensive academic career, Jeff has published more than 200 works, including peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and reports, showcasing his contributions to the field. His dedication to cancer care and advocacy was recognized in 2014 when he was appointed an Officer in the Order of Australia for his distinguished service in medical administration, particularly through his leadership of cancer control organizations and the promotion of innovative and integrated cancer care programs.

On September 23, 2024, Jeff Dunn reflected on his presidency at the UICC.

Jeff Dunn AO shared on his blog:

“As I reflect on my two-year presidency at UICC, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and pride. It has been an incredible experience, marked by significant achievements and personal challenges. It is with great honour that I pass the baton to my esteemed successor, Ulrika, who I am confident will continue to lead UICC with dedication and vision.

When I assumed the presidency in October 2022, the world was still grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic had disrupted cancer care globally, and our member organisations faced unprecedented challenges. They have also shown remarkable resilience, and I believe we have emerged stronger and more united in our mission to reduce the global cancer burden.

A recent membership survey has revealed high levels of satisfaction among our members, and this feedback is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in ensuring that we meet the needs of our diverse membership.

One of the highlights of my presidency was witnessing the return to in-person events, which my predecessor, Prof. Anil D’Cruz, did not have the opportunity to experience. The cancer community came together as colleagues, associates, friends, members, and partners at the World Cancer Congress in Geneva in 2022 and the World Cancer Leaders’ Summit in Long Beach in 2023. The pleasure of meeting again in person only reinforced the importance of face-to-face interactions in driving progress and innovation in cancer control.

Last year, UICC celebrated 90 years of commitment to improving access to quality cancer services for everyone around the world. The past two years were notable in this regard for the World Cancer Day ‘Close the care gap’ campaign focused on disparities in cancer care, and advocating for equitable access to treatment and prevention measures worldwide.

Several initiatives have focused on reducing the burden of breast and cervical cancers, particularly in low-resource settings, and have emphasised the importance of early detection and vaccination programmes.

UICC has also been actively involved in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and its impact on cancer treatment and people living with cancer, who are particularly vulnerable to infection.

I myself have struggled with a drug-resistant infection as a cancer patient, having been diagnosed two months before I became president with high-risk and advanced Mantle Cell Lymphoma. This diagnosis brought a new perspective to my work in cancer control. I experienced firsthand the importance of access to world-class treatment and the critical role of research in developing new therapies. The support and solidarity I received from the global cancer community were overwhelming and deeply appreciated.

As I reflect on the past two years, I am proud of what we have accomplished together, the cancer community, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to our members, partners, and the UICC team for their unwavering support and commitment.

It has been a privilege to serve as your president, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to our shared mission in new ways. I am excited for the future of UICC and the continued progress we will make in reducing the global cancer burden.”

More posts featuring UICC and Jeff Dunn on oncodaily.com