Miriam Mutebi: Day 2 of the World Cancer Congress 2024

Miriam Mutebi shared a post on LinkedIn:

“Day 2 of the World Cancer Congress WCC2024 (see pictures) began with impactful cervical cancer discussions, emphasizing the urgent need for a uniquely African approach to cancer care & survivorship. We must redefine what survivorship looks like across the continent.

This was followed by TED-style talks by leading Artificial Intelligence (AI) cancer experts who explored AI’s transformative role in oncology. Shout out to Kingsley I. Ndoh’s stellar talk on “Using AI technology to offer precision care to anyone in need.”

In line with my 54 Days of Cancer Advocacy, I also spotlight 3 African cancer authors reshaping care—from palliative care to patient trust to mentorship in the medical field. Their contributions are reshaping, how we understand, teach, & navigate cancer care in Africa.

➡Dr. Christian Ntizimira: On Ubuntu & Palliative Care

There is a Rwandan saying, “When you are well, you belong to yourself. But when you are sick, you belong to your family.” Dr. Ntizimira’s book, The Safari Concept, transforms our understanding of palliative care in Africa by drawing on the principle of “Ubuntu” emphasizing shared humanity.

Speaking at yesterday’s WCC session on ‘rethinking meaningful cultural traditions to optimize palliative care for advanced cancer,’ he highlighted his work that urges healthcare professionals to provide more empathetic, culturally grounded care, ensuring dignity and hope throughout the cancer journey. This includes the integration of local languages, proverbs, and metaphors in cancer care delivery.

➡Professor NICHOLAS ANTHONY OTHIENO-ABINYA: Trusting Local Care

In his book, Shadow in Perpetuity – Hard Journey with Cancer, Professor Abinya reflects on his four decades of treating cancer in Kenya. He addresses a crucial issue—trust in local healthcare. He challenges the notion that better care is only available abroad, advocating for early intervention and confidence in Africa’s medical expertise. His book reminds us that timely local care often holds the key to better outcomes, reshaping patient trust in African healthcare systems.

➡Dr. Michael Mwachiro: Mentorship in Medicine

Dr. Mwachiro’s Reflections on Mentorship: Inspiring The Next Generation,  highlights the role of mentorship in developing the next generation of African healthcare providers. As a top surgical educator, he underscores that nurturing young talent is key to improving cancer care on the continent. His work emphasizes that strong mentor-mentee relationships build excellence & innovation in the medical field, ensuring the future of healthcare in Africa.

Indeed, these authors remind us that cancer care in Africa is more than just medical intervention; it’s a journey intertwining modern medicine, cultural values, community, & mentorship. The path to better cancer outcomes on the continent begins with the understanding that care must be uniquely African & MUST involve us all.”

Source: Miriam Mutebi/LinkedIn

Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is the President of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), and past president for Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care in Africa. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s license in order to extend breast care services to marginalized areas.