Highlights from Global Cancer Movement: Challenging the Status Quo in Colorectal Cancer – Day 1

The first day of our inaugural Global Cancer Movement, “Challenging the Status Quo in Colorectal Cancer,” got off to an incredible start. It brought together researchers, doctors, advocates, patients, and leaders from around the world to focus on the challenges and opportunities in colorectal cancer care. From eye-opening discussions about the current state of care to exciting ideas for driving innovation, Day 1 was full of energy and inspiration.

Here’s a look at some of the key moments from today!

Andre Ilbawi of the WHO addressed the global importance of colorectal cancer screening, emphasizing its role in early detection and improved outcomes.

Bente Mikkelsen, former NCD Director of the WHO, highlighted the vast challenges posed by cancer globally, setting the tone for a day of critical reflection and dialogue.

Matti Aapro, President and CEO of SPCC and Chair of OncoDaily’s Editorial Board, underscored the importance of supportive care, noting that preventable side effects like nausea often occur due to non-compliance with guidelines.

“10% of people have nausea or vomiting because people do not follow the guidelines: Dr. Matti Aapro during the Global Cancer Movement”

Moy Bracken presented a startling statistic: more than half of the countries analyzed (70 out of 113) currently lack active clinical trials, revealing a significant gap in research opportunities.

Nelya Melnitchouk brought attention to the under-discussed impact of war on cancer care.

Roselle De Guzman shared insights into colorectal cancer trends in the Philippines, offering a regional perspective.

Ajay Aggarwal and Jemma Arakelyan led discussions on regional and socioeconomic challenges in cancer care, emphasizing the need for health systems to meet targets and improve outcomes.

“Health systems have targets you need to do better: Ajay Aggarwal during the Global Cancer Movement: Challenging the Status Quo in Colorectal Cancer.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Pashtoon Kasi detailed advancements in neoadjuvant immunotherapy for colorectal cancer, providing a comprehensive walkthrough of cutting-edge treatments.

Equity remained a central theme throughout the day. Dr. Gabrielle van Ramshorst called for greater female representation in advocacy roles.

Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, delivered an inspiring presentation on “Project Cure CRC,” outlining a vision to end colorectal cancer within our lifetime.

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Verna Vanderpuye shared insights on the challenges of colorectal cancer care in Ghana.

When asked by Jemma Arakelyan, “What is missing that prevents us from addressing these issues? Where should we start?” Vanderpuye’s answer was clear: “Education.”

“Proper communication between MDT and the patient ensures the success of effective therapy: Iga Rawicka during the Global Cancer Movement: Challenging the Status Quo in Colorectal Cancer.”

Other notable contributions included Dr. Rachel Riechelmann’s exploration of the clinical trial landscape for anal cancer and Dr. Vivek Subbiah’s precision medicine insights, which offered a roadmap for building the future of cancer treatment.

Cary Adams, CEO of UICC, echoed the following sentiment, emphasizing the personal and societal dimensions of the cancer experience.

Prof. Ghassan Abou-Alfa emphasized the importance of empowering the next generation to better understand cancer and improve treatment for patients.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate, but access to care does. Disparities still remain significant.

Therefore, research should serve the underserved populations.”

Susanna F. Greer, Ph.D. used her presentation to put the spotlight on researchers who are committed to equity.

Sana Al Sukhun addressed the challenges of equity in clinical trials, presenting a unique and thoughtful approach to this significant issue.

Anjee Q. Davis outlined Fight Colorectal Cancer’s plan to combat the disease through hope, research, and advocacy, emphasizing that prevention is key.

Erica Barnell delivered an insightful speech on bridging gaps in colorectal cancer screening and navigation.

Dhan Chand showcased striking images of cold tumors infiltrated by immune cells in response to the novel CTLA-4 inhibitor Botensilimab.

“It’s amazing to see cold tumors response to immunotherapy like this. I think many of us didn’t even hope to live long enough to see this happen in oncology.” – Yelena Janjigian

Why are some of our cancer drugs not delivering the promise?

Bishal Gyawali joined the Global Cancer Movement: Challenging the Status Quo, with his speech on “The Need for Common Sense Oncology.”

Dr. Alexey Aleshin discussed the detection of circulating tumor DNA levels, exploring how much tumor DNA is present in the body.

“I was dismissed because of my young age.”

Mila Ogalla Toledo took us to a ride through her journey of cancer diagnosis and treatment highlighting the challenges that are faced by Young Patients.

An emotional conclusion to DAY 1 of the Global Cancer Movement: Challenging the Status Quo!

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