A Collaborative Partnership Between the Palliative Care Association of Uganda and the Uganda Cancer Institute to Strengthening Cancer Control, Survivorship, and Outcomes Through Research

• Published in: JCO global oncology Vol. 10; no. Supplement_1; pp. 10 - 11
• Main Authors: Irumba, Lisa Christine, Mwesige, Benjamin, Zalwango, Joyce, Kabagambe, Cynthia, Niyonzima, Nixon, Mwesiga, Mark Donald, Downing, Julia, Orem, Jackson
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.07.2024
• ISSN: 2687-8941; 2687-8941
• DOI: 10.1200/GO-24-13000

PURPOSE Cancer remains a global health challenge with profound implications on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. The changing face of cancer care needs a holistic strategy that goes beyond conventional treatment modalities. Uganda's healthcare system is facing an increasing number of cancer cases, which highlights the need for creative solutions to enhance cancer outcomes, survivability, and control. UCI and PCAU host Uganda Conferences on Cancer and Palliative Care in partnership with the Ministry of Health. These bring together individuals and stakeholders involved in cancer and palliative care to share their research, and experiences of good practice and as such promote collaboration and networking in clinical practice, research, and training. METHODS Every 2 years, the conference brings together experts in the fields of cancer and palliative care, medical professionals, students, legislators, distinguished scholars, corporate partners, donors, and members of the public. Their structure includes plenary sessions, workshops, parallel presentations, special interest side events, poster presentations, and exhibitions. The theme is selected by the scientific committee who reflect on cancer and palliative care issues affecting the country at that time. During their delivery, there are research presentations, capacity building in oncology and palliative care, community engagement, sharing of compelling stories by survivors, and advocacy through involving other line ministries and policymakers. RESULTS 4 biennial conferences have been hosted, in 2017 when the Uganda Cancer Institute celebrated 50 years of existence 451 delegates from 17 countries, in 2019 350 delegates from 8 countries, in 2021 online during the COVID-19 pandemic 350 delegates on Zoom and others on Uganda Broadcasting Television, and in 2023 450 delegates from 13 countries attended. Conference proceedings and lessons have been published in ecancer and ehospice. CONCLUSION This collaborative initiative represents a novel approach to cancer care in Uganda through the exchange of ideas, experiences, and expertise among people with diverse backgrounds. Throughout the conferences, there is always a sense of optimism, resilience, and pledges to the ongoing development of cancer and palliative care services in Uganda.