UICC World Cancer Congress 2006

Opportunities for Cancer Societies to Engage in Tobacco Control: The Case of the FCTC and the Saint Lucia Cancer Society. Dr. David C Bristol, Saint Lucia Cancer Society

The Saint Lucia Cancer Society is a small organization in a small country. Cancer societies have a mandate to take on tobacco control since there is a strong evidence base of tobacco-caused cancers.

Tackling tobacco through education has been a prominent part of the work of the society since its inception 25 years ago and we have taken advantage of its established position in the national community.

About 4 years ago, the Society became involved in the work surrounding the negotiation of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Using contacts in PAHO and becoming a member of the Framework Convention Alliance NGO umbrella group, ensured the continued involvement in the negotiation process, culminating in Saint Lucia becoming a party to the convention in 2005.

The involvement of the Cancer Society in the campaign will be explored in the following areas:

- Working with other NGOs - international, regional & national - Speaking tour of 5 islands - Establishing rapport with governments - Leading the process of national tobacco control policy