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Under the patronage of HRH Princess Ghida Talal, Chairperson of the King Hussein Cancer Foundation and Center, the Lancet Oncology Middle East Series and the Cancer Arabia Initiative (CAI) were officially launched during an event held today.  

The Middle East Series features prestigious scientific papers authored in the Arab region published together in The Lancet Oncology, the world’s leading clinical oncology journal. The series sheds light on shared efforts, challenges, and future opportunities in the fight against cancer across the region. CAI is a collaborative effort between the King Hussein Cancer Center, the University of Jordan, the Global Health Catalyst, and The Lancet Oncology journal.
During her keynote remarks, Princess Ghida Talal stated: “The launch of the Middle East Series in The Lancet Oncology is a powerful testament to the scientific talent of our region, and a fitting occasion to launch the Cancer Arabia Initiative, a bold new vision that dares to imagine what is possible when Arab excellence in cancer care is no longer fragmented, but connected.” 

In his remarks during the launch, Professor Abdalla Awidi, Senior Consultant in Hematology and Oncology at the University of Jordan and Head of the Research Groups, said: “This initiative represents a cornerstone for a regional scientific alliance that enhances healthcare and contributes to the advancement of cancer treatment in ways that will serve the people of the region in the long term.”

The Middle East Series includes a set of expert articles on cancer control strategies in the participating Arab countries and outlines a comprehensive ten-year plan. The articles emphasize that creating harmonized cancer registries, developing shared treatment protocols, and promoting cross-border scientific research and clinical trials are critical steps toward a coordinated and effective approach to cancer control. They also highlight the urgent need for investment in prevention and early detection, especially in light of rising risk factors such as tobacco use, obesity, and physical inactivity.

The event included a panel session about health system strengthening and resilience moderated by Prof. David Collingridge, the Editor-in-Chief of The Lancet Oncology, in addition to scientific presentations moderated by Prof. Yaser Rayyan, the Dean of Scientific Research at the University of Jordan.