A highly anticipated cancer conference organized by the Economist Group was abruptly canceled following concerns over its ties to major tobacco companies. The 10th annual World Cancer Series event, scheduled to take place in Brussels, drew backlash from speakers and attendees due to its connection with Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International, companies known for producing popular cigarette brands like Marlboro and Benson & Hedges. This controversy has highlighted the ongoing tension between public health organizations and the tobacco industry.
The Event and Its Cancellation
The Economist Impact, a division of the Economist Group, planned to host a two-day cancer conference at the Marriott Hotel Grand Palace in Brussels. The event was expected to attract over 300 attendees and 80 speakers, all focused on shaping the global cancer-control agenda. However, concerns arose when it became public knowledge that the event had ties to Philip Morris International (PMI) and Japan Tobacco International (JTI), prompting several organizations and speakers to withdraw.
- Conference Goals: The event was aimed at addressing cancer control and prevention, with attendees including world-leading experts, researchers, and public health organizations.
- The Backlash: Public health advocates and cancer organizations reacted strongly to the involvement of tobacco companies, whose products are responsible for millions of cancer deaths worldwide. Many felt that partnering with these companies was contradictory to the event’s goals.
Major Withdrawals Due to Tobacco Links
One of the first organizations to withdraw from the conference was the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), the largest global membership organization dedicated to cancer prevention. In a public statement, UICC expressed its decision to pull out, citing its longstanding policy of not engaging with the tobacco industry, in line with the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
- UICC’s Statement: “This decision stems from the fact that Economist Impact works with Philip Morris International and Japan Tobacco International. We have a firm policy of not engaging with the tobacco industry,” said the UICC. The organization emphasized that this stance reflects their commitment to reducing the global burden of cancer.
Strong Reactions from Cancer Experts
Several prominent cancer researchers and public health advocates also pulled out of the event, criticizing the involvement of tobacco companies. One notable voice was Professor Mark Lawler, a digital health expert from Queen’s University Belfast, who was set to speak at the conference. Upon discovering the tobacco ties, Lawler withdrew from the event, expressing his shock and disappointment.
- Mark Lawler’s Reaction: “I was stunned to learn that the Economist Impact event I was due to speak at was supported by two cigarette companies Philip Morris and Japan Tobacco. How can an organization running a cancer event be supported by companies whose products are linked to millions of cancer deaths? Absolutely shocking.”
- Dr. Wendy Yared’s Criticism: Dr. Wendy Yared, director of the Association of European Cancer Leagues, also withdrew, writing to the event organizers, “I hope your colleagues reconsider the true impact of partnering with an industry that promotes a lethal product responsible for 25% of all cancer deaths globally.”
The Economist Group’s Response
Following the backlash, the Economist Impact team issued a statement acknowledging the concerns raised by the cancer community. In an email sent to speakers, Ian Hemming, the managing director of Economist Impact events, confirmed the event’s cancellation.
- Statement from Economist Impact: “We have noted the concerns about our association with tobacco companies. Economist Impact has a long-standing policy of not accepting sponsorship from tobacco companies for healthcare-related work or events. However, we respect the decision of some speakers and sponsors to withdraw, and as a result, we have canceled this year’s event.”
The Role of Tobacco in Public Health
The controversy over the Economist Impact event underscores the broader conflict between tobacco companies and public health organizations. Tobacco products are directly linked to cancer, respiratory diseases, and countless other health issues, contributing to millions of deaths each year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has long advocated for policies that reduce tobacco use and exposure, but companies like Philip Morris International have attempted to rebrand themselves by investing in smoke-free alternatives.
- Tobacco Industry’s Stance: Philip Morris has been trying to present itself as a company evolving towards “smoke-free” products, likening their shift to car manufacturers transitioning to electric vehicles. However, many public health experts remain skeptical of these claims, arguing that tobacco companies still profit from harmful products.
- Economist Impact’s Content: The Economist Impact website contains branded content supported by Philip Morris, portraying the company’s efforts to move toward “healthier alternatives.” However, critics argue that this narrative downplays the health risks associated with traditional tobacco products.
Conclusion: Ethical Challenges in Public Health
The cancellation of the Economist Impact cancer conference serves as a reminder of the ethical dilemmas faced by public health organizations when dealing with industries like tobacco. While some companies are making efforts to promote healthier alternatives, their ties to products responsible for millions of deaths create a significant conflict of interest. Public health advocates will likely continue to call for stricter policies on engaging with industries that contribute to serious health risks like cancer.