1. Expanding Access to Radiotherapy Services Worldwide
More than 100 countries have joined the IAEA’s Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All initiative, which works with governments, international financial institutions and the private sector to help increase radiotherapy access in low- and middle- income countries. Radiotherapy is an essential component of cancer treatment.
Under the initiative: more than 90 million euros in extrabudgetary funds has been raised to support cancer care in low- and middle- income countries, ten linear accelerators and 55 mammography machines have been procured, and 20 Anchor Centres established across four regions.
Rays of Hope Anchor Centres are leading cancer institutions recognized for excellence in clinical care, quality management, training, research and innovation. This global network has provided training to more than 700 professionals in the use of radiation medicine, expanding access to safe, high-quality cancer care.
The IAEA also works with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) to conduct imPACT reviews – comprehensive assessments of a country’s cancer control capacities and needs. ImPACT Review recommendations help to inform technical cooperation projects, national cancer control plans and strategic funding documents.