Global Policy and Partnerships Committee

The Global Policy and Partnerships Committee is focused on conquering thoracic cancers worldwide through policy change. Comprising global experts and professionals in the field of thoracic oncology, this committee is dedicated to advancing policy initiatives and enacting evidence-based recommendations to improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of thoracic malignancies worldwide.
Global Policy and Partnerships Committee
Mission

By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Committee for Policy Recommendations in Thoracic Malignancies at the IASLC aims to shape a global agenda that prioritizes evidence-based policies, equitable access to care, and improved outcomes for patients affected by thoracic malignancies. Through its collective expertise and commitment, the committee seeks to make a lasting impact on the field of thoracic oncology and positively influence the lives of individuals worldwide.

Committee projects

Lung Cancer Without Borders: Global Policies, Partnerships, and Progress Podcast Series

The Global Policy and Partnerships Committee is launching a podcast series to highlight how policy can drive change in lung cancer care. The podcast will discuss significant advancements in lung cancer treatment while addressing ongoing disparities in access to these innovations worldwide. Topics will include the evolution of tobacco policies, the implementation of screening programs, and the uneven adoption of new technologies across regions. Featuring perspectives from North America, Western Europe, Latin America, and Asia, the podcast will examine how disparities in access to new drugs and medical care impact global health outcomes.

Webinar: Lung Cancer Patient Journey Across the World - A Multidisciplinary Global Tumor Board

The webinar will explore the differences in lung cancer practices and management worldwide, from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) to more developed nations across various continents served by the IASLC. It will incorporate real-world cases to foster discussion on regional strengths, weaknesses, and disparities, while highlighting diverse management approaches. This dialogue aims to generate ideas for the IASLC to enhance its global presence and initiatives.

Chair of Committee

Andreas Charalambous
Andreas Charalambous
2023 - Present

2023-2025 Roster

Andreas Charalambous
Cyprus
Cyprus University of Technology
Committee Chair
Gilberto Lopes
United States
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Deputy Chair
Benjamin Solomon
Australia
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre
Board Liaison
Katie Maher
United States
International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer
Staff Liaison
Alfredo Addeo
Switzerland
University Hospital Geneva
Committee Member
Pedro Aguiar Jr.
Brazil
Faculdade de Medicina do ABC
Committee Member
Yasushi Goto
Japan
National Cancer Center
Committee Member
Fred Hirsch
United States
University of Colorado Cancer Center
Committee Member
Samuel Kareff
United States
University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center/Jackson Memorial Hospital
Committee Member
Lillian Leigh
Australia
Survivor
Committee Member
Rohan Patel
United States
University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center/Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Committee Member
Conjeevaram Pramesh
India
Tata Memorial Hospital
Committee Member
Melody Qu
Canada
London Health Sciences Centre
Committee Member
Nicole Rankin
Australia
The University of Melbourne
Committee Member
Ambreen Sayani
Canada
Women's College Hospital
Committee Member
Rajat Thawani
United States
University of Chicago
Committee Member
Ilit Turgeman
Israel
HaEmek Medical Center
Committee Member

Committee Responsibilities 

  1. Policy Development: The committee's primary responsibility is to develop comprehensive and actionable policy recommendations that address critical issues in thoracic malignancies by working side by side with policymakers and other essential stakeholders. These recommendations will be based on a thorough analysis of current research, clinical practices, and global healthcare disparities. The committee will strive to promote equitable access to high-quality care, foster innovative approaches to prevention, screening, and early detection, and enhance treatment outcomes for patients with thoracic malignancies.  
  2. Collaboration and Partnerships: The committee recognizes the importance of collaboration and partnership to effect meaningful change. It will actively engage with other professional societies, research institutions, governmental agencies, patient advocacy groups, and stakeholders to foster interdisciplinary cooperation. By forging strategic alliances, the committee will leverage collective expertise, resources, and influence to advocate for policy changes and drive the implementation of its recommendations.  
  3. Policy Advocacy and Education: To promote awareness and adoption of its recommendations, the committee will engage in advocacy efforts at national and international levels. It will actively participate in policy discussions, contribute to scientific conferences and symposia, and collaborate with media outlets to disseminate information. The committee will also develop educational resources, including guidelines, toolkits, and training programs, to empower healthcare providers, policymakers, and patients in their efforts to improve thoracic cancer care.  
  4. Monitoring and Evaluation: The committee will continuously monitor the implementation and impact of its policy recommendations. By tracking progress, evaluating outcomes, and conducting periodic reviews, the committee will refine and update its recommendations to ensure they remain relevant and responsive to the evolving landscape of thoracic malignancies. This iterative process will enable the committee to effectively address emerging challenges and adapt strategies accordingly.