#Kenya #Nairobi #NCCN #Cancer Care #ACS

International Oncology Experts Convene in Kenya

From June 9 to 11, 2025, oncology experts from around the globe gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, as part of a significant workshop hosted by the American Cancer Society (ACS). The primary goal of this meeting was to address and enhance cancer treatment protocols specifically tailored for the Sub-Saharan African region. This initiative is crucial given the rise of cancer incidences and the increased need for effective treatment strategies in this area.

Background of the Workshop

The workshop is a collaborative effort between the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the African Cancer Coalition (ACC). It forms part of the ACS Global Academy's ongoing commitment to improve cancer care worldwide. 在Nairobi, these organizations are working together to update and localize cancer treatment guidelines, ensuring they reflect the unique needs of Sub-Saharan African patients and healthcare providers.

Objectives of the Workshop

The workshop dedicated two days to updating the NCCN Guidelines® for oncology practice specifically for this region. These guidelines present evidence-based recommendations on cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and aftercare. The NCCN Guidelines aim to serve as a beacon of reliable information for healthcare professionals and patients alike, indicating the standard of care expected in oncology practices.

During the workshop, participants will collaborate to improve navigation programs for healthcare providers, thus facilitating better access to cancer care resources. Dr. Anu Agrawal, Vice President of Global Cancer Support at ACS, emphasized the importance of creating a productive environment where providers can share insights, learn from one another, and reach consensus on the regional needs, which is vital for improving cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Importance of the NCCN Guidelines

The NCCN Guidelines are recognized globally as the most comprehensive resource for oncological practices, with nearly half of the two million registered users from 190 countries outside the United States. The guidelines are updated regularly to reflect the latest research and best practices in cancer treatment. The NCCN Global Program focuses on adapting and translating these recommendations to make them accessible to healthcare professionals worldwide.

The workshop will see updates to various NCCN Harmonized Guidelines™ relevant to Sub-Saharan countries, including those for:

• - Anal Cancer
• - Gallbladder Cancer
• - Bladder Cancer
• - Cervical Cancer
• - Colorectal Cancer
• - Screening for Colon Cancer
• - Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia
• - Hepatocellular Carcinoma
• - Kidney Cancer
• - Ovarian Cancer
• - Penile Cancer
• - Rectal Cancer
• - Testicular Cancer
• - Uterine Neoplasms
• - Vulvar Cancer

Crystal S. Denlinger, CEO of NCCN, remarked on the collaborative efforts with ACC and ACS, which have progressed in tandem with the growing needs for cancer prevention and treatment in the region. There’s a heightened urgency to work alongside local experts to refine treatment recommendations based on evolving cancer statistics and research developments.

Anticipated Outcomes

The hopes for this workshop are pinned on enhancing local capacities for cancer prevention and treatment. By fostering discussions among leading oncologists, the ultimate objective is to create a tailored approach to cancer care that is both ambitious and achievable within the Sub-Saharan context. The discussions and updates obtained during this workshop are crucial for establishing a foundation for better cancer care delivery systems in the region.

Dr. Denlinger is representing the NCCN at the workshop alongside several prominent figures from various institutions, including specialists focused on cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, and bladder cancer. This diverse expertise enriches the workshop's discussions and propels its goals.

Conclusion

As the fight against cancer continues to gain momentum, workshops like these signify hope for better care and treatment options in regions heavily impacted by the rising cancer burden. Continued collaboration among international oncology experts is vital for shaping the future of cancer care, addressing local needs, and ensuring that every patient receives adequate support on their cancer journey. For more resources regarding global cancer treatment improvements, visit NCCN.org/global.