Fighting Cancer With Nuclear Techniques

Cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and 8 million cancer-related deaths every year. More than 60% of the world’s total new annual cases occur in low and middle-income countries, which account for about 70% of the world’s cancer deaths. As a consequence, the rising incidence of cancer is further straining the already scarce resources in many countries.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supports the fight against cancer through the application of nuclear techniques, by providing Member States with assistance in applying a comprehensive approach to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer that covers four main areas: nutrition; diagnosis and follow-up; radiation oncology and radiotherapy; and quality assurance. The support thus provided contributes to the achievement of United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on good health and well-being. Nuclear techniques are becoming increasingly essential to support the proper management of cancer patients, through a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals. Nuclear techniques can also contribute to better nutrition, which is the foundation of good health.

Focusing on the topic A Roadmap to a Cancer-free World, this year’s special event at the IAEA to mark World Cancer Day will examine the ways in which nuclear techniques can support the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer and help countries worldwide to achieve better disease management for their patients.

It will be opened by IAEA Director General Mr Yukiya Amano alongside high-level keynote speakers, including Her Royal Highness Princess Dina Mired of Jordan, the President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), and Her Excellency Ms Nila F. Moeloek, Minister for Health of the Republic of Indonesia.

For access to the Vienna International Centre (VIC) and the event, please register here.