Cancer advocacy groups call for increased patient involvement in research, treatment

Cancer patient advocacy groups are calling for increased patient involvement in shaping approaches to research and treatment in the country.

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

Speaking during a media roundtable facilitated by Pfizer, representatives from Kenya Network of Cancer Organisations (KENCO), and Center for Public Health Development (CPHD) reiterated the need for patient involvement in research, to limit the negative impact cancer is having on people’s lives, environments and the economy.

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.

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."

She added, "At Pfizer we remain committed to providing this support, from working with healthcare professionals to help them to understand the needs of people living with cancer and how to best 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.”

Her sentiments getting support from Lucy Njeri, a member of the Cancer Cafe.

“All over the world, breast cancer patient advocacy initiatives have proven to be a powerful force for the enhancement of cancer research, treatment, management, and care. Patient advocacy also provides peer support for the affected and is key to raising awareness, reducing stigma, educating the public, influencing healthcare policy by bringing the public’s concerns about cancer to policymakers and stakeholders within the health sector."

Limited cancer research both in capacity and availability 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.