This archive report was first published on 7 January 2020.
As we begin a new decade, it's essential to reflect on our progress in cancer control and prevention. In 2019, a gentleman in his fifth year of using hormonal tablets for breast cancer was told by his doctor that research shows taking the tablets for up to 10 years is associated with better outcomes.
Recommendations in cancer treatment are constantly evolving as science improves our understanding of the disease, from the cellular level to its impact on the whole person as a bio-psychosocial and spiritual being.
Over the past decade, cancer civil society organizations (CSOs) and patient groups have contributed to cancer control through screening and awareness campaigns. However, science now demands that such campaigns be smarter, targeted, and evidence-driven, with demonstrable outcomes that they actually save lives.
As we move forward, it's crucial that cancer CSOs forge alliances with research institutions, academia, and oncology professionals to benefit from knowledge transfer. A comprehensive cancer public education programme informed by scientific evidence should be a top priority.
Reducing the cost of cancer care is a significant challenge that should be addressed in the new year. Nairobi is saturated with radiotherapy machines, with more than 10 high-tech ones within a 10-kilometre radius of each other. It may be time to press the pause button on further investment in radiotherapy in Nairobi and give incentives to investments in the counties.
Integration of the HPV vaccine into the national immunization programs last year was a significant milestone in cancer control. Parents largely ignored the social media naysayers on the vaccine and came out in large numbers to get their daughters vaccinated.
However, the biggest threat to achieving and sustaining 100 per cent HPV vaccination coverage is not necessarily the anti-vaccine conspiracy groups but the well-meaning donor-driven NGOs who pull in different directions depending on each funder's priorities, thus setting the stage for duplication and divergent approaches to a problem.
As Kenya goes full throttle into universal health coverage (UHC), the pharmaceutical industry will continue to play an important role in the healthcare system. However, as commercial entities, industry players must not be allowed to influence decision-making, including sponsorship of seminars. CSOs must ensure policy and legislative interventions are devoid of interference.
As we move forward, it's essential to take cognizance of the complexities associated with long-term medication and follow-up in cancer and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The architects of the UHC roll-out must prioritize this in the 2020s.
Mr Makumi is vice-chair, NCD Alliance Kenya, and patron, Oncology Nurses Chapter.
