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Participating in a precision oncology conference in Africa was an incredibly profound and emotionally charged experience for me – Manel Haj Mansour

Photo from Manel Haj Mansour/Linkedin

Jul 11, 2023, 15:55

Participating in a precision oncology conference in Africa was an incredibly profound and emotionally charged experience for me – Manel Haj Mansour

Participating in a precision oncology conference in Africa was an incredibly profound and emotionally charged experience for me. Meeting with my peers and dedicated individuals from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal to combat cancer, filled me with hope and inspiration for my beautiful continent.

The conference itself was a testament to the progress being made in the field of precision oncology, particularly in Africa. The presentations , experience sharing and discussions were enlightening, providing valuable insights into the latest advancements and breakthroughs and how to apply it in our setting.
It was heartening to see researchers, doctors, and scientists collaborating and sharing their knowledge to improve cancer treatment and care in their countries.

However, what struck me the most was the strong emphasis on equality in accessing new technologies. The realization that not everyone has the same level of access to cutting-edge treatments and diagnostic tools deeply touched me. The discussions centered around bridging the gap and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographical location, have equal opportunities for early detection, personalized therapies, and quality cancer care.

Visiting Nelson Mandela Square during my time in Johannesburg and standing in front of the statue of such an icone and inspiration added another layer of significance to my experience. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for equal access to healthcare and technological advancements, just as Nelson Mandela fought for equality in all aspects of life.

Those three days have been eye-opening on what’s happening in Africa and I was amazed by the work that is done and still to be done in different parts of the continent.

This left an indelible mark on my heart and mind, fueling my determination to make a difference in the fight against cancer in Africa, promote equality in healthcare system and create more opportunities for our patients to access innovative treatments through research…

the best is yet to come

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