June 2, 2024 – The recent Romanian policy event on digestive cancers, held on May 28, has left us with a sense of profound accomplishment and optimism for the future. Hosted by Nicoleta Pauliuc, President of the Committee for Defense, Public Order, and National Security of the Romanian Senate, the event was a significant moment for all stakeholders involved in the battle against digestive cancers in Romania and beyond.

The highlight of the survivors’ event organised by Ms. Pauliuc was the announcement of a bill that grants two paid days off for employees undergoing medical check-ups and screenings. Two days off per year would be dedicated to screening for various diseases, targeting prevention of cancer, and a range of other conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, for more efficient early management.

During the event, Conf. Dr. Sorin Păun from Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy | UMF CD formally acknowledged and appreciated the efforts and breakthroughs achieved in the field of digestive cancer. Her words validated and motivated us to push the boundaries further in cancer care and research.

An Assembly of Minds

The event saw an impressive gathering of minds and professionals from across the spectrum of cancer care and management. Among the attendees were distinguished individuals from oncological hospitals, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMFCD), and entities instrumental in executing the colorectal screening program in Ilfov County and Bucharest, including the National Society of Family Medicine, the COPAC Association, and the Central Military Emergency Hospital Bucharest. Also in attendance was the president of the Romanian Lynch Syndrome Society, bringing attention to genetic predispositions to cancer and the importance of early detection and genetic testing.

Impact and Insights

The conversation was rich and multidimensional, covering the critical aspects of policy, practice, and patient care. Key topics included improving national screening programs, integrating cutting-edge treatments and technologies in patient care protocols, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing complex diseases like cancer. All participants acknowledged the importance of colorectal populational screening and the need for gastric cancer screening conjugate advocacy efforts. The patients’ voices were represented by Andi Carlan, a DiCE PAG member, and the late George Vasiliu, whose recorded message advocating for early diagnosis and equal access to innovative medicines closed the meeting.

Forward Together

The Romanian policy event on digestive cancers was not just a meeting of minds but a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to making significant strides in cancer care. We are deeply thankful to Nicoleta Pauliuc for her leadership and support. Her involvement elevated the event and underscored the importance of high-level advocacy in our ongoing battle against cancer.

As we reflect on this event’s success, we are inspired to continue our work with renewed vigour and hope. The road ahead is long, but with the partnerships and collaborations fostered here, we are more equipped than ever to face the challenges that lie ahead. We are already preparing the next event(s) that will be organised in collaboration with the National Society of Medical Oncology and the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Craiova.

Thank you to all participants and supporters of the Romanian policy event on digestive cancers. Your dedication, expertise, and passion are the driving forces behind our collective achievements. We are making strides toward a future where digestive cancers are no longer a formidable adversary but a manageable and eventually surmountable challenge.

Author:
Alina Comansecu