Omotayo Oluwashina: United by Unique – A Commitment to People-Centred Cancer Care

Omotayo Oluwashina, Program Officer at Medicaid Cancer Foundation, shared a post on LinkedIn:

“World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4th, holds immense significance in the global fight against cancer. It is a day dedicated to raising awareness about cancer prevention, detection, and treatment, while also offering support to those affected by the disease. Traditions on World Cancer Day often include educational campaigns, community outreach programs, and fundraising events, which are aimed at advancing oncology management and improving patient care. The collaborative efforts of individuals, organizations, and governments on this day serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of unified action in tackling this devastating illness.

This year’s theme for World Cancer Day is “United by Unique,” highlighting the importance of personalized cancer care and recognizing that each individual’s experience with cancer is unique. The choice of this theme was influenced by the growing recognition of the need for customized treatments and support systems that cater to the diverse needs of cancer patients. Events and activities leading up to this theme have focused on advocacy, policy change, and community engagement to ensure that every patient’s story is heard and their needs are met.

At Medicaid Cancer Foundation, where I have the privilege of contributing my quota to the cause, our mission aligns closely with this year’s World Cancer Day theme. Our foundation is committed to providing comprehensive cancer care and support to patients, particularly those from underserved communities. We actively participate in World Cancer Day activities each year, organizing awareness campaigns, free screening programs, access to preventive medicines and treatments and educational workshops to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to combat cancer. Our efforts aim to break down barriers to care and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the best possible treatment and support.

On a more personal note, my involvement with the Medicaid Cancer Foundation has been incredibly fulfilling. My role with support from the team and partners under programs such as the Patient Access to Cancer Care (PACE) initiative, has strived to make cancer care more accessible to those in need. Through PACE, we work to improve patient access to effective cancer treatments and advocate for policies that support continuous innovation in cancer care. Since inception, the program has supported 150+ patients seeing over 1500 medications accessed with 2024 recording the most access in a single calendar year. I have also been involved in cancer prevention efforts, including HPV and Hepatitis B vaccination programs in schools and communities alongside screenings and awareness campaigns. The vaccination program has been significant in increasing vaccine uptake.

Other initiatives by the foundation are also crucial in reducing the incidence of cancer and promoting early detection, which significantly improves treatment outcomes. Through these activities, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact that the foundation’s work has on individuals and communities. Advocacy, awareness campaigns and sensitization on HPV vaccination program has made the public more aware that cervical cancer is a preventable disease which happens to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in low- and middle-income countries. Pharma-companies and manufacturing industries alike must understand the critical role they play in the fight against this disease. Health workers are essential in educating patients about cancer risk factors, counselling on screening guidelines, and promoting adherence to evidence-based recommendations. It is my hope that through these efforts, we can continue to make strides towards a world free of cancer.

Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that approximately 10 million people die from cancer each year, making it one of the leading causes of death worldwide. However, through concerted efforts and initiatives like those we champion at Medicaid Cancer Foundation, there is hope for a future where cancer is no longer a formidable adversary. By coming together on World Cancer Day and beyond, we can work towards closing the care gap and ensuring a healthier, more equitable future for all.”