Cancer Advocacy Group Calls for Increased Patient Involvement in Shaping Cancer Research and Treatment

Nairobi, Thursday May 25, 2023

KNA by Ali Sheikh Mohamed/Daisy Masinde

Cancer patient advocacy officers and researchers are calling for increased patient inclusivity in shaping approaches to cancer research and treatment in Kenya. 

This is aimed at addressing the alarming challenges in breast cancer care and management to reinforce existing health policies, program planning, and healthcare delivery approaches.

Speaking during a media round table forum facilitated by Pfizer, the Chairman Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations (KENCO) Mr Evan Mapelu reiterated the need for patient involvement in research to limit the negative impact that cancer is having on people’s lives, environments, and the economy.

“This is aimed at making it possible for women to access breast cancer diagnosis and treatment as well as addressing the psychological distress for most cancer patients,” said Mapelu.

Mapelu believes that limited cancer research to inform healthcare policy has largely contributed to the lethal prevalence of breast Cancer.

In Kenya, cancer is the third leading cause of death and the second leading cause of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) deaths after cardiovascular diseases.

“In every fifteen minutes a cancer patient dies which translates to 37,000 deaths every year in Kenya,” Mapelu revealed.

Further a report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) revealed that the global cancer burden is projected to rise by about 50% over the next 20 years mainly due to lifestyle changes across the world.

The advocates are convinced that increased patient involvement is key to the pursuit and implementation of evidence-based solutions and appropriate programs to inform policy makers on sustainable healthcare solutions formulation.

On her part, Pfizer Oncology Medical Manager for East Africa Dr. Josephine Muiru said: “We have not yet found a way to prevent or cure all cancers, so it is vital that we are listening to people living with these diseases and supporting them with a holistic cancer care approach.”

“At Pfizer we remain committed to providing this support from working with healthcare professionals to help them understand the needs of people living with cancer and how best to communicate with them, to leveraging digital technology to empower them to learn about their own disease and treatment options and to improve their quality of life,” Muiru remarked.

Additionally, a member of the cancer café Kenya, who is also a breast cancer survivor Lucy Njeri Kariuki noted that the breast cancer patient advocacy initiatives have proven to be a powerful force for the enhancement of cancer research, treatment, management, and care.

“To reduce the impact and limit the burden of cancer on the economy, patient advocacy should be encouraged across the country,” urged Ms Kariuki.

Ms Kariuki decried lack of oncology personnel despite the installation of required equipment to health facilities in all the 47 counties.

Courtesy ; K. N. A