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. Participants stressed the importance of reaching both people at the community level and health professionals and cited the pivotal role of the media in the educational process. The event attracted 550 participants from 50 countries and successfully met its goal of furthering the continuing education and professional development of staff and volunteers associated with cancer organizations worldwide. The second World Conference will take place in Atlanta, USA in 1999 hosted by the American Cancer Society. Further meetings are planned.