World Summit Against Cancer for the New Millenium
Charter of Paris: 4 February 2000

Article 4

Despite the considerable strides that have been taken in the fight against cancer, survival outcomes vary dramatically throughout the world - not just between countries, not just between cities, but even between institutions within the same city. Wide variations in standards of care and access to quality cancer care are a major cause of these discrepancies -- and the often unnecessary morbidity and mortality that result.

The parties reaffirm Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states that every individual "has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care." Given the ubiquitous presence of cancer and its impact on society the parties commit to promote quality cancer care within the local economic context for all individual. The parties therefore endeavor to promote:

1. Evidence-based medical practice and clear definition of "quality care" according to all available scientific evidence.

2. Systematic development of guidelines based on the best available evidence for prevention, diagnosis, treatment and palliative care.

3. Appropriate prioritization of quality anti-cancer care at every level of healthcare provision, consistent with the total burden of disease.

4. Intensified cancer specialization and better integration of care among medical disciplines.

5. Widespread patient access to high quality clinical trials.