In 1997, another Workshop for Voluntary Cancer Societies was held, this time in Hong Kong, during the 13th Asia Pacific Cancer Conference. William Rudder Memorial Speaker, Dr. Judith Mackay discussed the Impact of Tobacco in the Asia Pacific Region. She called for cancer society interventions, including research, public statements on smoking, making premises and conferences smoke-free, dedicating funds and personnel to supporting tobacco control action, and bringing the latest global and national information on tobacco to the attention of governments. Dr. Mackay stressed the importance of supporting cessation efforts and ensuring that information on the harmful effects of smoking and advice on stopping are systematically included in the school curricula. Sixty-two participants attended from 16 countries.
Conference proceedings are available.
Discussions included organization and fund-raising, cancer education and awareness, rehabilitation and palliative care. The pivotal role of cancer societies in health promotion, cancer prevention, screening and patient care was identified. Advocacy was singled out as one of the most important activities for cancer leagues in the region as a means to mobilize public opinion and to influence community leaders and politicians. Conference proceedings are available. Participant resolutions included statements about the need for cancer registry systems in all countries and the need to intensify information and education about cancer, particularly the hazards of tobacco and cancer of the breast, uterus and prostate.