INCTR Forms Global Alliance for the Cure of Childhood Cancer

Representatives from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC), the International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC), the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Monza International School of Pediatric Oncology (MISPHO), the International Consortium for the Cure of Childhood Cancer in China (CURE) and the Oncology Center, Antwerp, gathered at the INCTR offices in Brussels on 4th December to discuss working together as a Global Alliance for the Cure of Childhood Cancer. The International Union Against Cancer and the St Jude Outreach Program also have expressed an interest in participating. In his introductory remarks, Dr Magrath described the concept of the Global Alliance as one in which organizations whose members have different expertise and experiences work together to develop an active program to identify the problems faced in developing countries in dealing with children with cancer, and to develop a coordinated strategy to overcome them. The combined strengths of the organizations would create an alliance encompassing a broad range of knowledge and experience as well as one of great credibility. Its mission would be to increase cure rates in children with cancer in developing countries.

All organizations expressed an interest in participating in the Alliance, and indicated areas in which they were already active in childhood cancer in developing countries, or areas in which they would be willing to contribute. There was considerable discussion on the necessity of collecting data on existing resources for the diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancer in developing countries in order to identify needs and to develop an overall strategy. Dr Eva Kramarova of the IARC proposed that an initial approach to the development of such information might be to utilize the existing network of cancer registries in developing countries which report to the IARC. This suggestion was well-received. Other areas of endeavor would include early diagnosis, which would necessitate programs of non-specialist and public education, specialist education, support for cooperative groups conducting clinical trials, and improvement of follow-up.

The participants agreed that a Steering Committee, with representation from each organization, would be responsible for coordinating projects undertaken jointly by members of the Alliance, and for deciding upon the structure of the Alliance in the context of projects that it might undertake—e.g., the formation of specific subcommittees. The immediate goal would be to produce a detailed document spelling out the goals and mission of the Alliance, approaches to be used in reaching its goals, and measures of evaluation. A draft document prepared by the INCTR was provided. Each organization will comment on the document, propose modifications, and provide information regarding areas to which it would be best able to contribute. It was agreed that the document would be completed within three months, and a date was fixed for a meeting of the Steering Committee—immediately after the INCTR annual meeting, on April 21, 2001.