Recipients of the 2024 Vanessa Moss Prize: Celebrating Excellence in Cancer Health Disparities Research

The Cancer Health Disparities Day Event, held at the House of Commons on November 15, 2024, as part of London Global Cancer Week.

The London Global Cancer Week 2024 included a diverse series of events hosted by experts committed to improving global cancer outcomes.

A key highlight of the Cancer Health Disparities Day was the presentation of the Vanessa Moss Prize, awarded to exceptional early career researchers who have made significant contributions to addressing cancer health disparities. The prize highlighted the importance of understanding and tackling inequalities in cancer care, with a focus on research that aims to improve outcomes for underserved populations.

This year, an impressive range of abstracts was submitted from researchers around the world. The best of these were selected for oral and poster presentations during the recently concluded Cancer Health Disparities Day Event, held at the House of Commons on November 15, 2024, as part of London Global Cancer Week.

Winners of The Vanessa Moss Prize

Masood Moghul

Topic: “The Man Van – Using Mobile Targeted Case-Finding to Address Health Inequalities in Prostate Cancer & Other Health Conditions”

Masood Moghul is an MD(Res) student at The Institute of Cancer Research working under the joint supervision of Professor Nick James, Mr Declan Cahill, Professor Ros Eeles, and Dr Anna Wilkins. His research is focused on the Man Van Project, an initiative aimed at increasing patient access to cancer investigation pathways, with a particular emphasis on urological cancers. The project seeks to improve early detection and diagnosis by offering targeted community-based testing for men, addressing both urological cancers and other relevant health conditions.

Through the Man Van Project, Masood is contributing to efforts to enhance accessibility to healthcare services, especially in underserved communities. The project leverages mobile healthcare delivery, providing on-site testing and support to individuals who may otherwise face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare facilities. Under the guidance of his supervisors, Masood is exploring how this innovative approach can bridge gaps in healthcare provision and promote early intervention, ultimately improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of cancer.

Poster Abstracts

Harenthri Devy Alagir Rajah

Abstract: “Unequal Burden: Disparities in Financial Toxicity Following Cancer in an Upper Middle Income Nation Making Good Progress Towards Universal Health Coverage.”(Malaysia)

Harenthri Devy Alagir Rajah is a Research Associate at the University of Malaya and a Graduate Research Assistant at the National University of Malaysia (UKM). With a strong academic background and a passion for research, Harenthri contributes to various projects in the fields of health sciences, medical research, and public health.

At the University of Malaya, Harenthri works with academic teams to support research initiatives that aim to address pressing healthcare challenges, particularly in the areas of disease prevention and treatment. As a Graduate Research Assistant at UKM, she is involved in a range of research activities, assisting in the development, implementation, and analysis of studies focused on improving patient care and outcomes.

Abstract: “Accessing Lung Cancer Care in Urban and Rural Settings: Development of a Patient Engagement Tool”

Lucy Mitchinson is a Research Fellow in Behavioural Science and Health at University College London (UCL). She is collaborating on the SPotting Cancer among Comorbidities (SPOCC) project, funded by the NIHR, which aims to improve cancer detection in individuals with comorbidities. Lucy holds a PhD in Palliative Care and her research focuses on the psychological and social aspects of care for patients with serious illnesses. Her work combines behavioural science and health psychology to enhance healthcare strategies and patient outcomes.

Haleema Aslam

Abstract: “Improve Uptake and Access to the NHS Breast Screening Programme for Minority Ethnic Women in Leicester”

Haleema Aslam is a Journal Article Reviewer for Frontiers in Sociology and a Researcher at De Montfort University. Her current research focuses on improving breast cancer screening among BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) women in Leicester. Haleema is dedicated to understanding and addressing the barriers that affect screening uptake in these communities, aiming to develop strategies that promote early detection and improve health outcomes. Her work combines public health research with a strong focus on health equity, striving to reduce disparities in cancer care.

Gebrekirstos Hagos

Abstract: “Patterns of Cancer in Needle Hospital”

Gebrekirstos Hagos is a Clinical Oncologist with experience in public hospitals, private clinics, and academia. He is currently a Clinical Oncology Specialist at Needle Hospital and an ESMO Fellow at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. Dr. Hagos has a proven track record in patient care, hospital leadership, and academic contributions, with a focus on cancer research and palliative care in low-income countries. He has presented his work at various regional and international cancer conferences, aiming to improve cancer care and outcomes in underserved populations.

Zeeshan Arif

Abstract: “Impact of Postcode on Treatment for Metastatic Hormone Sensitive Prostate Cancer: May The Odds Be Ever in Your Favour”

Zeeshan Arif is a Specialist Registrar in Clinical Oncology with a strong interest in equitable cancer care and the social determinants of health. He is currently a Clinical Oncology Registrar at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust and serves as the Vice Chair of the Academy Resident Doctors Committee at the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges. Zeeshan is committed to addressing health disparities and advocating for equitable access to cancer care, while also contributing to the development of future medical leaders in oncology.

Favour Chiemelie Okoye

Abstract: “Model of Hospice Care Service Delivery for Patients with Advanced Cancer in a Resource-limited Setting”

Favour Chiemelie Okoye is an Oncology Medical Officer at Lakeshore Cancer Center and the Founder of The Knowledge Locus, an initiative focused on cancer care education and awareness. Through her work in oncology, he has gained a deep understanding of the vital role of Hospice/Palliative Care in improving the quality of life for cancer patients, particularly in advanced stages. He is dedicated to promoting comprehensive cancer care that includes not only treatment but also support for patients and families facing end-of-life challenges.

Lin Cheng

Abstract: “Assessment of Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Cancer Among Ethnic Chinese Immigrants – A Community-based Collaborative Survey in Glasgow”

Lin Cheng is a pathologist specializing in cytopathology, gastrointestinal and liver pathology, and molecular diagnostics. She is a graduate of the pathology residency program at RUSH and is an active member of the College of American Pathologists, American Society of Clinical Pathology, and American Society of Cytopathology. Dr. Cheng has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles, contributing significantly to advancements in her field. Her research and clinical expertise focus on improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes through the integration of molecular and traditional pathology techniques.

Olubukola Ayodele:

“We are excited to introduce the outstanding recipients of this year’s prestigious Vanessa Moss Prize, which honoured exceptional contributions in the field of cancer health disparities.

This year’s spotlight was on early career researchers from around the globe who are making significant strides in understanding and addressing these disparities. We received an impressive array of abstracts submitted from various corners of the world. The finest were selected for oral and poster presentations during the recently concluded Cancer Health Disparities Day Event held at the House of Commons on November 15, 2024, as a part of the celebrated London Global Cancer Week.

WINNER OF THE VANESSA MOSS PRIZE:
Masood Moghul, a Fellow at The The Institute of Cancer Research took home the top honor for his groundbreaking work titled “The Man Van – Using Mobile Targeted Case-Finding to Address Health Inequalities in Prostate Cancer & Other Health Conditions,” showcasing an innovative approach to tackling health disparities in the UK.

Poster Abstracts:

Harenthri Devy Alagir Rajah: Explored the “Unequal Burden: Disparities in Financial Toxicity Following Cancer in an Upper Middle Income Nation Making Good Progress Towards Universal Health Coverage.”(Malaysia)

Lucy Mitchinson: Discussed “Accessing Lung Cancer Care in Urban and Rural Settings: Development of a Patient Engagement Tool,” offering insights into patient experiences in the UK.

Haleema Aslam: Investigated how to “Improve Uptake and Access to the NHS Breast Screening Programme for Minority Ethnic Women in Leicester,”with a focus on overcoming barriers in healthcare access within the UK.

Gebrekirstos Hagos: Presented findings on “Patterns of Cancer in Needle Hospital”, shedding light on the cancer landscape in Somaliland.

Zeeshan Arif: Analyzed the “Impact of Postcode on Treatment for Metastatic Hormone Sensitive Prostate Cancer: May The Odds Be Ever in Your Favour,” highlighting geographic disparities in healthcare within the UK.

Favour Chiemelie Okoye: Proposed a “Model of Hospice Care Service Delivery for Patients with Advanced Cancer in a Resource-limited Setting,” addressing the urgent needs of patients in Nigeria.

Lin Cheng (Crystal): Conducted “Assessment of Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Cancer Among Ethnic Chinese Immigrants – A Community-based Collaborative Survey in Glasgow,” illuminating awareness and perceptions of cancer in immigrant communities in the UK.

All of these compelling abstracts will be published in ecancer, further amplifying the voices of these passionate researchers.

These individuals represent the bright stars of tomorrow, and we encourage everyone to engage with them to delve deeper into their research endeavors. A heartfelt thank you goes out to their supervisors for nurturing these talents.

Thank you Ben Simms & Lisa Stevens for presenting their prizes.

We eagerly await next year’s call for abstracts and encourage you all to share your research.”

Further Reading:

Highlights from London Global Cancer Week 2024