#oncology #Kenya #Nairobi #NCCN #African Cancer Coalition

International Collaboration in Oncology

In June 2025, Nairobi, Kenya, will serve as the stage for a significant event aimed at tackling the cancer challenges faced in Sub-Saharan Africa. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN), an alliance of leading cancer centers from the United States, is collaborating with the African Cancer Coalition (ACC) during the American Cancer Society's Global Academy Workshop. This three-day event, held from June 9-11, aims to revamp cancer treatment guidelines tailored to the regional context.

The workshop is a gathering of oncology experts dedicated to enhancing the quality of cancer treatment and support for patients. The event specifically focuses on updating the NCCN Guidelines, which are comprehensive recommendations based on evidence and expert consensus for cancer prevention, screening, treatment, and supportive care. Approximately half of the two million registered users of these guidelines come from outside the United States, highlighting their global reach and importance.

One of the key components of the workshop is the review and adaptation of the NCCN Harmonized Guidelines™, specifically catering to the needs prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa. Cancer types that will be reviewed during the workshop include anal carcinoma, bile duct cancer, bladder cancer, cervical cancer, colon cancer, colorectal cancer, gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, hepatocellular carcinoma, kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, penile cancer, rectal cancer, testicular cancer, uterine neoplasms, and vulvar cancer.

Dr. Anu Agrawal, the Vice President of Global Cancer Support at the American Cancer Society, stated, "The Regional Meetings of the ACS Global Academy provide a productive space for providers to learn from one another, engage in discourse, and reach consensus on regional needs." The aim is clear: to share guidelines that are both aspirational and pragmatic, ensuring that they resonate with local practices and circumstances.

Dr. Crystal S. Denlinger, CEO of NCCN, further emphasized the organization's long-standing collaboration with experts across Sub-Saharan Africa and the American Cancer Society. She noted the importance of keeping the recommendations updated based on latest research. "We've seen improvements in cancer-related resources and care, yet incidence rates continue to rise," she commented, highlighting the dual challenge of advancement versus growing demand.

This workshop is more than just a meeting; it’s a crucial step towards improving cancer outcomes in a region that has seen an alarming rise in cancer rates. As the experts come together, they will not only update the guidelines but also focus on how to implement them through training and better navigation programs for healthcare providers.

As the event approaches, anticipation builds around the potential improvements in cancer care that could emerge as a result of this collaborative effort. The work being done is crucial in defining a forward path for oncology not just in Kenya, but throughout Sub-Saharan Africa, where access to quality cancer care remains a pressing concern.

For more information about the NCCN's resources and how they are enhancing cancer treatment globally, visit the NCCN website. This event marks yet another milestone in the ongoing fight against cancer, showcasing the power of collaboration in medicine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the need for improved cancer care in Sub-Saharan Africa is urgent, and the collaboration between NCCN and ACC at this workshop signifies a meaningful step. It not only reaffirms the commitment to provide quality cancer treatment but also stresses the importance of localized solutions that cater to the specific needs of each region. As we look towards the future, such initiatives may pave the way for a healthier and more informed society when it comes to cancer care and prevention.