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Handing over a cheque for US$20,000, compiled from hundreds of US $5 and US $10 voluntary contributions, the people of the Republic of Korea yet again demonstrated their loyal support to the IAEA's Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (PACT).
“This donation represents the determination of our people to help cancer patients in developing countries who do not have access to the kind of cancer care and facilities that are available in Korea,” said Byoung Man Ahn, Korean Minister of Education, Science and Technology, during a special ceremony held at the Korean Technical Exhibition during the IAEA's 53rd Annual General Conference.
It is Korea's third donation to PACT since 2007. In total, Korea has given US $50,000 in voluntary contributions.
“The IAEA is again deeply honoured by the Korean people's valuable efforts towards helping cancer patients in developing countries,” said Werner Burkart, IAEA Deputy Director General for Nuclear Sciences and Applications, who accepted the donation on behalf of PACT.
Burkart pointed out that development in low-income countries is resulting in extended life expectancy and, at the same time, greater exposure to lifestyle factors that increase the risk of cancer. This is leading to an increase in cancer incidence. “We must work with these countries now to fight the threatening cancer epidemic,” he said.
“In its support of PACT, Korea has taken a leading role. We hope that other Member States consider following Korea's example,” added Burkart.
According to Minister Byoung Man Ahn, Korea plans to expand fundraising efforts so that it can make continuous donations to PACT and its work. Part of Korea's interest in expanding radiotherapy worldwide stems from its own experience in cancer care, having made significant strides in tackling the disease with the adoption of Cyclotron for cancer treatment and other various advanced medical techniques.
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