Sharing knowledge on cancer vital, says Kase

Cancer burdens have been affecting many families and economies and are expensive to treat, said health secretary Pascoe Kase in his opening remarks for the Apec life science innovation forum in Port Moresby last week.
“The issues and challenges affecting those suffering from cancer to access basic services are enormous,” he said.
“Cancer is expensive to treat and we also know that cancer in women affects children and families.”
Kase said having professionals from the region come together to share their experiences and knowledge on human papillomavirus and cervical cancer was important for Apec economies.
The forum discussed the challenges, experiences and the best practices to improve implementation in response to the global call to eliminate cervical cancer.
A statement from Apec PNG said cervical cancer was a health concern.
It said efforts by member economies to participate to address this issue demonstrated their commitment to bring an outcome that was beneficial to all.
Apec cervical cancer expert group is focussing on collating a library of resources for planners and decision makers, as well as building a community of practice to share new knowledge quickly.
They would also focus on providing information-sharing opportunities within the Apec economies and covering policy dialogues and workshops on NPV and cervical cancer.
The discussion on cervical cancer through sharing information across local and global economies with reverse level can have substantial impact on public health, in turn promoting trade, security, inclusive growth and development in line with the Apec mandate.