Abstract 37: Enhancing Cancer Diagnostics through Provision of Pathology Support for Hospitals in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Case of International Cancer Institute (ICI), Kenya

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: Delays in diagnosis and treatment of cancers in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs) attributable to provider and/or systemic factors are linked to poor patient outcomes. Pathology services are not available in most lower level facilities hence, there's delayed diagnosis and initiation of treatment for cancers. There is also limited availability of specialized pathology tests. Methods: International Cancer Institute (ICI), conducts joint clinics and cancer screening with partner counties where same-day screening and on-site biopsing is conducted after which samples for cytology, histology and/or histochemistry are sent for processing in the ICI diagnostics and research laboratory at a subsidized cost with a turn-around-time for results being 14 days or less. Results get discussed virtually by a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) of both ICI and the outreach site and positive results are singled out for further diagnostics like computerized tomography (CT) scan and blood work ups. Results: Between September and December 2020, a total of 146 samples for Cytology; 197 biopsy samples for histology and 66 samples for immunohistochemistry were shipped to the ICI Diagnostics and research laboratory from five ICI Outreach sites namely: Kisumu, Taita Taveta, Meru & Makueni counties and Sori Lakeside Hospital. In less than 28 days from date of screening, the MDT discussed positive results and gave recommendations; results were disseminated to outreach sites for patient counseling and drawing of treatment plans; and appropriate treatment was initiated at the outreach sites in established cancer clinics run jointly by ICI and the counties. The ICI Consultant Pathologist and Histotechnologist provide further technical support and consultation to the clinic team when necessary. Conclusion: Better patient outcomes are assured when there is reduced turn-around time from screening to diagnosis and initiation of treatment for cancers in LMICs. Accessibility of pathology services through strengthening of existing health systems can be achieved through multi-sectoral partnerships. Citation Format: Gloria Kitur, Emmah Achieng, George Gitau, Chite Asirwa. Enhancing Cancer Diagnostics through Provision of Pathology Support for Hospitals in Low and Middle-Income Countries: A Case of International Cancer Institute (ICI), Kenya [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 9th Annual Symposium on Global Cancer Research; Global Cancer Research and Control: Looking Back and Charting a Path Forward; 2021 Mar 10-11. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2021;30(7 Suppl):Abstract nr 37.