In sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 80% of breast cancer patients are diagnosed with late stage (stages III or IV) disease. In contrast, in the U.S. and other high-income countries, only 15% of breast cancer patients are diagnosed with late-stage disease. Across Africa, the lack of awareness and understanding of cancer contributes to these higher rates of late-stage diagnoses, as well as later contributing to African cancer patients’ higher rates of treatment abandonment.
In recognition of breast cancer and men’s health awareness months, BVGH began distribution of informational packets for recently diagnosed breast and prostate cancer patients and cancer awareness flyers for the general public. The patient packets cover topics to help newly diagnosed breast and prostate cancer patients understand their diagnosis, the treatment process, managing side effects, and more. The flyers for the general public focus on cancer symptoms, the importance of cancer screenings, and what to expect when getting screened. These materials have been distributed to BVGH partner hospitals across Cameroon, Lesotho, Nigeria, and Kenya, and will continue to be available for download on the BVGH website. The public awareness materials are available in English and French.
We extend our thanks to Dr. Julie Gralow, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Executive Vice President of ASCO and Dr. Simon Hughes, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, Guy’s & St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Guy’s Cancer Academy Director for their review of the patient materials for medical accuracy.