Vicki Durston, Director of Policy and Advocacy at Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), shared on LinkedIn:
“The first few days at the UN General Assembly sideline events have been nothing short of eye-opening. They’ve offered powerful reminders of both how far we’ve come, and how much work still lies ahead. Here are some reflections from those first days.
Breast cancer is not just a health issue – it’s a women’s rights issue. Unless we act with urgency, the global burden will almost double by 2050.
The launch of the Breast Cancer Quality Care Index – which Professor Ben Anderson and BCNA CR Naveena Nekkalapudi with the team at Policy Wisdom have helped shaped – is an important step forward. Standardised global reporting matters: if we can’t measure it, we can’t improve outcomes. Yet disparities are widening, particularly in lower-income countries where women are diagnosed too late, with fewer treatment options and increased mortality.
Australia’s influence has been clear. From our ambassador’s leadership in securing visibility in the political declaration, to world-first progress on cervical cancer elimination, to the strong presence of advocates, researchers, and leaders – including Cancer Australia’s CEO and UICC board presidents past, present, and future. We are punching above our weight, and showing what’s possible when advocacy and action align.
It was a privilege to speak alongside First Ladies, government officials, civil society leaders, advocates and policy makers from around the world. I also had the chance to spend time with the outgoing UICC President, reflecting on her leadership. Her greatest lesson? Real change in cancer control takes years. Quick wins are tempting, but lasting impact takes time, persistence, and partnership.
As one of our consumers once said: ‘Compassion without action is mere observation.’ A powerful reminder that progress requires more than words – it requires commitment.
Some conversations stay with you long after the room empties. These first days at the UN General Assembly sideline events have been full of those moments.”
More insights from Vicki Durston.
