Overview of World Cancer Congress (WCC)

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) is at the forefront of this battle. Bringing together health leaders, researchers, and policymakers, the WCC fosters collaboration and sparks innovative solutions. By creating partnerships and advancing research, it plays a crucial role in shaping global cancer care and health policies.

This article explores the WCC’s mission, impact, and key achievements, highlighting how it continues to lead global efforts to reduce cancer’s burden and improve lives worldwide.

Key Milestones in the History of WCC

Founded in 1933 by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the World Cancer Congress (WCC) has become a global leader in shaping cancer prevention, treatment, and care. Initially focused on fostering research collaboration, it has evolved into a vital platform for driving policy reform, advancing innovation, and addressing cancer care disparities worldwide.

In its early years, the WCC focused on global cooperation and, by the 1970s, expanded to include cancer control programs, highlighting prevention strategies like HPV vaccination. The 1990s saw a shift toward advocacy, with initiatives like the World Cancer Declaration (2008) calling for a united global effort to reduce the cancer burden.

The 2010s brought a tech-driven transformation with breakthroughs in precision medicine, AI, and telemedicine. The WCC’s initiatives, including global HPV vaccination campaigns and national cancer policies, have improved cancer outcomes globally. More recently, the WCC has prioritized equity in cancer care, advocating for sustainable systems in low- and middle-income countries, as emphasized in the 2022 Geneva Declaration.

Through projects like the City Cancer Challenge and support for over 100 national cancer policies, the WCC continues to lead the fight against cancer, uniting global leaders and driving innovation to reduce disparities and improve cancer care worldwide.

source: www.wcc.org

How WCC Advances Cancer Control

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) plays a pivotal role in strengthening global cancer control through partnerships, policy advocacy, and education, driving innovative solutions and meaningful collaborations in the fight against cancer worldwide.

Partnerships are at the heart of the WCC’s mission. By teaming up with global organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Congress highlights the integration of advanced technologies such as nuclear medicine into cancer care, emphasizing the power of collaboration to improve access to cutting-edge treatments.

Policy advocacy at the WCC tackles pressing issues like tobacco control, a major cancer risk factor. Sessions like “Meet the Experts – Pavilion 1: Prevention, Screening & Early Diagnosis in Tobacco Control” offer strategies to curb tobacco use worldwide, demonstrating the Congress’s commitment to addressing the root causes of cancer.

Through educational initiatives, the WCC provides a platform for groundbreaking research. Organizations like the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) present advancements in personalized cancer prevention and early detection biomarkers, enhancing screening programs and paving the way for more effective cancer prevention.

WCC’s impact is evident in its innovative strategies, such as gamification and community outreach, which effectively raise awareness and promote healthier behaviors.

While exact statistics on policy changes may be hard to pin down, the WCC’s role as a catalyst for public health programs and innovative solutions is universally acknowledged.

Why is WCC Important for Cancer Control?

One of the WCC’s most significant contributions has been its influence on national cancer screening programs. Past events have highlighted successful case studies, such as the integration of HPV testing into cervical cancer screening initiatives in low- and middle-income countries, significantly improving early detection rates. Similarly, the Congress has been instrumental in driving anti-tobacco initiatives, with sessions dedicated to sharing best practices in reducing smoking rates. These efforts have supported stricter regulations, leading to measurable declines in tobacco-related cancers in several regions.

The WCC’s impact extends across diverse health sectors, as evidenced by its participant demographics. The Congress attracts attendees from over 140 countries. For example, the 2024 Congress gathered over 1,800 attendees from various sectors, reflecting its extensive reach and influence across the global health community.

What Happens at the World Cancer Congress?

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) offers a wide range of sessions to address key aspects of cancer control and encourage global collaboration. Plenary sessions bring together leading experts to discuss important topics, while highlight sessions showcase new trends and successful strategies in prevention, diagnosis, and care. Panel discussions provide diverse perspectives on complex challenges, and workshops offer hands-on training in advocacy, screening programs, and community outreach.

Key events include inspiring keynote speeches, debates, and talks that push for innovative approaches. The Congress attracts researchers, healthcare professionals, policymakers, advocates, and cancer survivors, fostering rich multidisciplinary discussions.

source: www.uicc.org

Key Details of WCC 2024

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) 2024 was held from September 17 to 19 at the International Conference Centre Geneva (CICG) in Switzerland, bringing together over 2,000 delegates from more than 120 countries. This globally recognized event served as a critical platform for advancing cancer prevention, treatment, and care through collaboration and innovation.

The Congress focused on six major themes: prevention, screening, and early detection; cancer research and progress; healthcare systems and policies; cancer treatment and palliative care; tobacco control; and the experiences of people living with cancer. These themes addressed pressing challenges in global cancer control, aiming to drive equitable access to care and innovative solutions.

Key topics discussed included breakthroughs in genomics, highlighting advancements in personalized cancer therapies, and the integration of digital health technologies to improve patient care and data management. The Congress also emphasized the importance of global cancer policy, exploring strategies to reduce disparities in cancer care and increase access to treatment in underserved regions.

Notable speakers at the World Cancer Congress 2024 included a distinguished group of experts from global health organizations, advocacy groups, and cancer care initiatives. Among them were:

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO)

Bente Mikkelsen, Director of the Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) Department at the WHO

Moses Echodu, Founder of the Uganda Child Cancer Foundation

Raluca Popa, Executive Director of Childhood Cancer International

Carolyn Taylor, Founder and Executive Director of Global Focus on Cancer

Cherie Tulloch, OBGYN and Chairperson of the Cervical Cancer Task Force, Ministry of Health

Jeff Dunn, President of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC)

Andre Ilbawi, Medical Officer at WHO’s Noncommunicable Diseases Department

These experts shared invaluable insights into leveraging science, policy, and technology to drive improvements in cancer outcomes globally.

source: www.uicc.org

Highlights from Previous WCC Meetings

How to Prepare for the WCC

Take advantage of early-bird rates to save up to 50% on registration fees. Early registration also ensures you secure spots for popular sessions and provides ample time to plan your schedule.
Review the Congress agenda in advance and prioritize sessions that align with your professional goals, whether it’s learning, networking, or exploring new topics. The programme is organized across six themes, overseen by international experts, covering a wide range of cancer control topics.
Download the official WCC app to access personalized scheduling, real-time updates, and networking tools. The app will help you stay organized and connect with other attendees effectively.

What to Expect at WCC 2026

World Cancer Congress 2026 will take place from 24-26 September 2026 in Hong Kong. It will be organised in collaboration with the Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society, a long-standing UICC member organisation.

“The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society is honored to be the co-hosting organisation, alongside UICC, for the World Cancer Congress 2026, uniting global leaders to advance cancer control and reduce the global burden through transformative efforts. We are dedicated to collaborating closely with UICC and other stakeholders to ensure the success of this significant event,” said Patricia Chu, BBS, Chair of The Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society.

UICC organises the World Cancer Congress every two years, taking the global event to UICC member countries around the world. Several thousand participants from more than 130 countries have attended the conferences in the past.

“We are confident that Hong Kong will provide an exceptional setting for the Congress,” said Dr. Cary Adams, CEO, Union for International Cancer Control. Its cutting-edge facilities and commitment to health care excellence make it an ideal location. Together with the Hong Kong Anti-Cancer Society and all partners involved, we will shape an impactful and inspiring event.”

source: www.uicc.org

 

WCC Research Submission Standards

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) ensures high-quality submissions through rigorous ethical, transparency, and review standards:

• Ethical Standards: Submissions must follow ethical guidelines, including IRB approval for studies with human or animal subjects, and disclose conflicts of interest.
• Transparency: Research must include detailed methodologies and data sources for validation and replication.
• Review Process: Peer reviews assess novelty, impact, and alignment with WCC themes, prioritizing actionable and innovative findings.
• Interdisciplinary Focus: Collaborative submissions integrating perspectives from diverse fields and regions are encouraged to foster inclusivity and diverse approaches.

Recent Updates to WCC Submission Standards

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) 2026 upholds high-quality, inclusive presentations by refining submission standards. While traditionally in-person, updates on virtual participation are expected closer to the event. Emphasizing international collaboration, WCC invites global experts to submit abstracts, fostering diverse perspectives on cancer care and prevention. Submissions undergo rigorous review by international experts, ensuring cutting-edge, impactful content. Clear guidelines help presenters deliver well-structured contributions.

How WCC Influences Global Cancer Policy

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) has shaped global cancer policies through collaboration, research sharing, and actionable strategies. In Mexico, insights from the 2014 WCC guided the 2016 National Cancer Plan, enhancing screening, research funding, and access to medications. In Kenya, WCC presentations inspired the 2018 National Cancer Control Strategy, focusing on prevention, early detection, and affordable treatment. In India, WCC findings led to national cancer registries and greater investment in oral cancer research, supporting the 2016 National Cancer Control Programme. In the Middle East, WCC discussions promoted public-private partnerships in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, boosting investments in diagnostics, research, and specialized cancer centers.

WCC Virtual Education Continuous Learning for Health Professionals

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) extends its impact through virtual resources, including recorded sessions, webinars, and online courses, making cancer control advancements accessible globally. Recorded sessions from keynotes, panels, and workshops offer insights into cutting-edge research and policy innovations. Webinars provide interactive discussions on emerging trends like screening programs and health disparities. Online courses deliver in-depth modules on topics such as cancer prevention, digital health, and tobacco control, equipping healthcare professionals with practical knowledge and skills.

Integration of WCC Education and Submission Standards

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) offers a comprehensive virtual education platform providing year-round access to the latest cancer control developments. Participants can revisit recordings of past sessions, like the 2024 plenary on cancer prevention and NCDs, for valuable insights. While WCC doesn’t offer formal online courses, it partners with organizations like the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) to provide educational resources, including webinars on real-world data and digital oncology. The platform is regularly updated with the latest research and policy advancements, ensuring professionals stay informed on global cancer strategies and innovations, making WCC a key resource for cancer prevention and care.

Benefits of UICC Membership for Career Growth

The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) offers numerous membership benefits to support professionals and organizations dedicated to cancer control. Members have access to exclusive research and resources, including a wealth of publications, materials, and accredited online learning opportunities. These resources help members stay informed about the latest developments and strengthen their advocacy efforts at the national level. Membership provides global networking opportunities, granting privileged access to major events like the World Cancer Congress, World Cancer Leaders’ Summit, and World Cancer Day. These events bring together global experts to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and collaborate on advancing cancer control initiatives.

UICC supports its members through programs that promote leadership and professional growth. Leadership Development Grants help senior managers develop skills in campaign coordination and communication. The Young Leaders Programme involves emerging professionals in leadership roles and key UICC events. Fellowships, since 1962, offer opportunities for capacity building. UICC also awards nearly US$ 2.5 million in grants and scholarships to over 100 organizations, focusing on women’s cancers, childhood cancer, and humanitarian assistance. These initiatives equip members with the tools and knowledge to lead impactful cancer control efforts worldwide.

source: www.uicc.org

UICC Membership Benefits and How to Join

Joining the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) is easy for organizations and individuals committed to cancer control. Associate Membership costs CHF 1,500 annually, with reduced fees for organizations from low- and middle-income countries. To apply, review membership categories, complete the online form, and submit it to the UICC membership team. Applications are processed within a week, becoming effective upon approval and payment. Members receive up to 50% off World Cancer Congress registration, access to UICC publications, and invitations to exclusive events, connecting them to a global network to advance cancer prevention and care.

How to Stay Updated on WCC News and Events

To stay updated on the World Cancer Congress (WCC), here’s how you can do it:

Subscribe to UICC Newsletters: Get regular updates on events, research, and cancer control. 

Follow on Social Media: Stay connected through platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for real-time news and insights. 

Use the WCC Event Platform: Access recorded sessions and event resources at any time. 

Join Webinars and Online Courses: Learn from UICC-hosted webinars to stay on top of the latest in cancer care.

Exploring Innovation in Cancer Control at WCC

The 2024 World Cancer Congress highlighted transformative advancements in cancer control, focusing on digital innovation, immunotherapy, and prevention technologies. Digital health tools showcased improved patient monitoring and access to care, with sessions addressing data privacy and regulation. The Innovation Forum explored technologies, funding models, and collaborative strategies. Breakthroughs in immunotherapy, including cell and vaccine therapies, showed the potential of harnessing the immune system. Prevention discussions focused on vaccines and screening technologies for early detection. Machine learning and biomarker identification promised non-invasive screening and personalized care, reinforcing the role of technology and collaboration in cancer prevention and treatment.

How WCC Supports Patient Advocacy

The World Cancer Congress (WCC) amplifies patient voices and promotes patient-centered care through partnerships with advocacy groups and policy discussions. At WCC 2024, The Max Foundation highlighted equitable access to treatment and the role of patient advocacy. Workshops with the WHO shared best practices for engaging individuals living with cancer. The Supportive Care Pavilion offered services like pain management, counseling, and physical therapy, reflecting WCC’s commitment to quality of life. Program themes prioritized patient engagement, survivorship, and family involvement. Workshops and sessions fostered collaboration with advocacy groups, emphasizing face-to-face interactions and international cooperation to improve patient outcomes.

Written by Nare Hovhannisyan, MD