Advancing Women’s Health: A Call to Action on Breast Cancer

On January 23, 2025, Cairo, Egypt, hosted a pivotal high-level dialogue focused on women’s health, particularly breast cancer. Under the leadership of H.E. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, the event took place at the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Hotel. This gathering brought together national, regional, and global leaders to confront one of the most pressing health challenges in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region. Breast cancer, the most prevalent cancer among women in this area, demands urgent attention and innovative solutions. The dialogue coincided with the 17th Breast, Gynecological, and Immuno-oncology International Cancer Conference (BGICC), emphasizing the need for equity and innovation in women’s cancer care.
The Burden of Breast Cancer in the Eastern Mediterranean Region
Breast cancer poses a significant health challenge in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, with over 130,000 new cases and 52,000 deaths reported annually. Egypt stands out with one of the highest incidence rates, recording 55.4 cases per 100,000 women. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for effective interventions. The Presidential Initiative on Womenโs Health has made significant strides in addressing this issue, focusing on early detection, accurate diagnosis, and integrated care for breast cancer patients. Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar emphasized the economic and social toll of breast cancer, stating that investing in early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment can yield substantial economic returns. The WHO’s investment case indicates that for every dollar spent on these initiatives, there is a potential return of $6.4 to $7.8. This underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to combat breast cancer and improve health outcomes for women in the region.
Cairo Call to Action: A Framework for Change
The high-level dialogue culminated in the introduction of the “Cairo Call to Action for Advancing Equity and Innovation in Womenโs Cancer Care.” This draft document outlines actionable steps aimed at enhancing equitable access to breast cancer interventions worldwide. Key priorities include promoting a comprehensive approach to addressing breast cancer risk factors, investing in health system development, and establishing effective referral pathways, especially in low-resource settings. The Call to Action also emphasizes the need for affordable diagnosis and treatment options, as well as fostering regional and international collaboration. Dr. Asmus Hammerich, Director of the Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health Department at the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, highlighted the collective responsibility of all stakeholders present. He stated that each participant represents a crucial piece of the puzzle in catalyzing transformative action for the region.
A Vision for the Future: Equity and Innovation in Cancer Care
The Presidential Initiative on Womenโs Health serves as a model for other low- and middle-income countries, demonstrating how innovation, political will, and a dedicated health workforce can drive progress in cancer control. By addressing disparities in access to care, the initiative aims to ensure that no woman is left behind in the fight against breast cancer. Professor Hesham Elghazaly, Head of the Presidential Initiative on Womenโs Health, articulated the vision behind the Cairo Call to Action. He described it as a collective commitment to advancing women’s health outcomes and fostering collaboration. The outcomes of the dialogue will inform the finalization of the Cairo Call to Action, providing a roadmap for sustainable and equitable breast cancer care worldwide. This initiative not only aims to enhance access to care but also seeks to inspire other regions to adopt similar strategies, ultimately improving health outcomes for women everywhere.
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