Egypt becomes 29th state to join Int’l Agency for Research on Cancer

20 / 05 / 2024

By Marwa Nassar - -

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has welcomed Egypt as its 29th Participating State, highlighting Egypt’s dedication to advancing cancer research and prevention efforts.

In 2022, Egypt faced an estimated burden of more than 150 500 new cancer cases and more than 95 000 cancer-related deaths, according to IARC’s latest global cancer database. The three most frequent cancer types for both sexes combined were liver cancer, breast cancer, and bladder cancer.

The country’s large population size poses unique challenges in cancer control.

Egypt’s Presidential Initiatives illustrate the country’s strong commitment to cancer control measures aimed at promoting prevention and treatment, such as the “100 Million Healthy Lives” initiative, which played a key role in tackling liver cancer.

The collaboration between Egypt and IARC will span various initiatives, including population-based cancer registration, expansion of Egypt’s participation in international consortia, and primary prevention research on modifiable risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and tobacco use. Capacity-building as well as etiological research on cancer and shaping a Code Against Cancer in the region will also be key priorities.

“Egypt’s membership in IARC marks a significant step towards strengthening global efforts in cancer research and prevention,” said IARC Director Dr Elisabete Weiderpass. “We are excited to collaborate with Egypt on crucial initiatives such as cancer registration, epidemiology, and prevention research, leveraging our combined expertise to advance cancer control and improve public health outcomes.”