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Prof. Hesham El-Ghazaly, Chair of the National Committee for the Presidential Initiative for Women’s Health, President of the Egyptian Society of Oncology, and Director of the Research Center at Ain Shams University (Masri), participated as part of the official Egyptian delegation in the side discussions of the United Nations General Assembly in New York (22–25 September 2025), contributing to comprehensive and future-oriented solutions for cancer elimination, especially in low- and middle-income countries with high population density.

He presented Egypt’s vision and achievements in combating breast cancer, highlighting Egypt’s distinction as the first country to meet all three performance indicators that lead to a projected 40% reduction in breast cancer mortality by 2040. His presentation included innovative scientific and digital solutions, the use of artificial intelligence and big data to predict cancer occurrence and develop prevention mechanisms, all within a high-level global meeting alongside esteemed leader. The multidisciplinary discussions emphasized the urgent need to unify efforts for women’s health globally, bridge existing gaps, and ensure equitable access to breast cancer care and outcome monitoring.

This was followed by Egypt’s representation in international cancer control meetings, organized by the International Cancer Patient Coalition (ICPC) in collaboration with the United Nations at its headquarters, attended by Dr. Elisabete Weiderpass, Director of the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

During the sessions, he presented Egypt’s National Cancer Control Strategy, which is based on the pillars of the World Health Organization’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative (WHO GBCI). He explained how the Egyptian model succeeded in achieving its goals and improving patient outcomes, making it an inspiring and replicable experience for the global health community.

These meetings underscored that global progress in cancer control requires innovation, scientific research, collaboration, solidarity, equity, and a shared vision. They also stressed the importance of leveraging scientific advancements and artificial intelligence in medical research, along with bold policies, effective partnerships, and sustainable financing to ensure equitable access to treatment, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The week concluded with attendance at a joint side event organized by the International Cancer Coalition (ICC) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) under the theme: “Bridging the Gap in Access to Cancer Care.”

The event featured prominent leaders, including Dr. Elizabeth A. Mittendorf – President-Elect, ASCO, Karin Saltzser, CEO, Bloomberg Media, Felicia Knaul – Director of the Center for Global Health, UCLA, HRH Princess Dina Mired, among other ministers of health, ambassadors, oncologists, and global health leaders, to discuss urgent priorities for action, innovative financing solutions, and bold initiatives to promote equity in cancer care.

The discussions highlighted the importance of early detection, the priority of women's cancers, and sustainable funding models, emphasizing the shared responsibility to accelerate progress and ensure no patient is left behind.

In his participation, Prof. Hesham El-Ghazaly affirmed that Egypt remains fully committed to working with international partners, policymakers, and global institutions to accelerate progress and build a future where justice prevails and cancer care outcomes improve for all.