Aimed at improving access to cancer care in geographically isolated and underserved populations, SALCC alumnus and epidemiologist Aviane Auguste, Ph.D, hosted a cancer research conference at St. George’s University, Grenada on March 20, 2026.

The one-day regional conference attracted over 130 participants both in-person and online to explore solutions to better support cancer patients in regions such as Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Centered on the theme “Medical travel for cancer care: Navigating Access, Quality, and Equity,” the conference convened researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to examine the systemic challenges affecting cancer diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care.

This is a topic that has been very much understudied. It was important to study how persons access cancer care in remote and underserved communities... The intention is to federate a group of practitioners, researchers and policymakers... to come up with actionable solutions in the future.— Aviane Auguste, Ph.D, Epidemiologist and member of SALCC's Vaughan A. Lewis Institute for Research & Innovation (VALIRI)

The conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Stephen King on improving cancer care in SIDS, alongside presentations showcasing high-quality research from the Caribbean, South Pacific, Sub-Saharan Africa, and rural and coastal communities in the UK. Representatives from PAHO highlighted the growing concern of health inequities linked to overseas referrals for cancer treatment, while Dr. Clunes of St. George’s University emphasized the need for stronger regional collaboration.

Discussions underscored a shared global challenge: limited access to care in geographically isolated populations. The conference concluded with a collective commitment to advancing research, strengthening partnerships, and developing sustainable, equitable solutions for cancer prevention and control worldwide.