Medicines Australia CEO presents at the World Cancer Congress – “Industry contributions to the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases”

Medicines Australia has today reiterated the industry’s commitment to the WHO Global Action plan on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and access to cancer medicines.

Speaking at the World Cancer Congress, Medicines Australia CEO, Tim James presented on behalf of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), outlining areas where industry is best placed to add value based on its knowledge and experience in partnership with the WHO and other stakeholders.

“The IFPMA has committed to a framework for action to address NCD burden, focusing on four pillars including innovation and research, access and affordability, prevention and health education, and partnership,” Mr James said.

Mr James also championed a new publication on behalf of the IFPMA – Enhancing Access To Cancer Care.

“At all levels, global , regional and local, the industry  is committed to solutions focused initiatives in partnership with governments and NGO’s other companies, to address the burden of NCDs and issues concerning access to innovative medicines to treat them,” Mr James said.

The IFPMA publication, Enhancing Access to Cancer Care, includes examples of cancer access programs undertaken by its member companies which specifically target people with low income and patients in need of treatment. The vast majority of these programs target women and children’s cancers and benefit more than 80 countries throughout the world.

Mr James also touched on issues affecting access to new and innovative cancer medicines in Australia.

“While Australia has performed well in providing affordable and equitable patient access to cancer medicines, the system faces significant challenges, as it does across the world,” Mr James said.

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Contact Person:

Alexia Vlahos
Phone: (02) 6122 8503
Email: Alexia.Vlahos@medicinesaustralia.com.au