The Namibian-German cooperation arrangement between the German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ) and the University of Namibia aims to improve cancer care in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital, and peripheral communities.
Background:
Cancer is an increasing health problem in Namibia caused in part by an ageing population. Against this background, public awareness of cancer, as well as of screening, diagnosis and treatment, must be increased. However, there are as yet no diagnostic or treatment options for patient in the peripheral areas. For this reason, the partnership intends to optimise cancer treatment by setting up a virtual tumour board and establishing an oncological outreach structure.
Activities:
-\tA digital platform for virtual conferences and outreach activities
-\tA tumour board and training for local members
-\tMonthly virtual tumour boards
-\tA workshop on cancer screening for health care workers in peripheral areas
-\tRegular communication between the outreach team and the community health team
Impact:
Thanks to the outreach programme, the trained employees can track disease progression in a patient’s place of residence and can coordinate treatment directly with the cancer centre in Windhoek. Establishing the tumour board also optimises knowledge transfer between the German and Namibian oncologists.