The Global Power of Oncology Nursing

The Global Power of Oncology Nursing (GPON) group was formed in 2019 when we were invited to be part of London Global Cancer Week in 2020, showcasing the nursing contribution to tackling the global burden of cancer through engaging stories, debates and presentations throughout the world. The majority of nurse presenters are from low- and middle-income countries, focussing on solutions to improve cancer care in a world where universal health coverage is far from reality.

Globally, oncology nurses make a huge positive difference to cancer care worldwide; their critical contribution throughout the care pathway warrants the inclusion and promotion of nursing in every country’s cancer strategy. Oncology nurses are key contributors for the successful achievement of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development call for a 1/3 reduction in mortality from NCDs by 2030 and so should be round the table at those international decision- making and policy Board meetings. GPON is spreading this great work.

2020, ‘International Year of the Nurse and Midwife’ was an extraordinary year and 2021 continued to be so. GPON 2022 highlights how nurses in low and middle-income countries are addressing the many challenges facing their practice. We believe that the public now better understand what nurses do and their worth; let’s progress from this as our starting point and grow together in partnership for oncology nurses globally, primarily through leadership and education, throughout the continuum of cancer care. Our strength is in our togetherness.