New cancer treatment launched
By George.Kebaso, August 2, 2023Management of lung cancer in Kenya has been made easier with the launch of a targeted therapy treatment, designed specifically to combat cancerous protein cells, also known as non-small cell lung cancer that change radically.
The launch on World Lung Cancer Day, which is marked on August 1, follows rising concern due to mortality rates and limited access to quality care.
According to the World Health Organization, lung cancer was responsible for approximately 1.8 million deaths in 2020.
Speaking at the launch, Deepak Arora, the Interim African cluster President at AstraZeneca, said there is need to improve access to better healthcare systems.
“Together, by creating a network that transcends borders, we can fill gaps in the patient care pathway and offer solutions that improve outcomes and transform patient journeys,” he said.
The initiative was made possible through the collaboration of the Ministry of Health and AstraZeneca, Kenya Society of Hematology, Axios, the National Cancer Institute of Kenya, health facilities and professional societies.
“Quality cancer care remains inaccessible to many Africans due to inadequate diagnostic facilities, low patient awareness, lack of training for healthcare providers, and difficulties accessing preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic resources,” said Dr Khomotso Mashilane, AstraZeneca’s Medical Director for African Cluster (SA, SSA, FSA).