MetaPink Program: Simplifying the Breast Cancer Journey for Patients With Advanced Stage Breast Cancer in Nigeria

Abstract

Background and context: Breast cancer is the number one diagnosed cancer in Nigeria. 75% of these breast cancer diagnosis are at stage 3 and 4. This is due in part to lack of awareness of the signs and symptoms, inadequate screening and diagnostic facilities, insufficient policies and guidelines, and fear. Metastatic breast cancer patients do not have the time nor the strength to deal with the stress, delay, and confusion of trying to find adequate care. Run For a Cure Africa (RFCA) wishes to establish a program that helps navigate metastatic breast cancer patients in Lagos state, and surrounding states in Nigeria toward breast cancer care and resources. Aim: The MetaPink program empowers and educates patients with advanced stage breast cancer by providing them with timely and relevant information and resources on their disease and how they, the patient, can improve their quality of life and overall prognosis. Additionally, RFCA creates greater awareness of metastatic breast cancer in the community and the necessity for regular screenings. Strategy/Tactics: This project is being implemented by RFCA. RFCA is working work with the health care professionals (HCP) in the oncology and community health department at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in addition to their organization mentors, The Rose Foundation in Houston, Texas. RFCA is also working with community associations, drama troupes, and groups to create sensitization in hard to access areas. Patients and participants of the MetaPink program have a support team, through the monthly support group, with whom they fellowship, ask advice, gain insight, and just off load any looming concerns. Program/Policy process: RFCA enrolls metastatic patients through our supported clinics, call ins, and our screening outreaches. Each patient enrolled in the program gets a starter pack. RFCA hosts monthly support groups and Q&A sessions anchored by medical professionals, RFCA also hosts community outreach events via the radio, market drama skits, and musical awareness presentations. Periodically we follow-up and communicate with MetaPink program participants via MetaPink WhatsApp, telephone, in-person meetings/visits, and support group meetings. Outcomes: The objective of the MetaPink program is to simplify the breast cancer journey for metastatic breast cancer patients in Nigeria and give them the emotional support and confidence to understand and navigate through their personal breast cancer journey. RFCA also creates larger community awareness of advanced stage breast cancer in a method that is culturally appealing and resonates with the environment. What was learned: As the program progresses, RFCA will learn how to effectively navigate patients in this resource-poor environment. This will contribute to their quality of life and improved breast cancer management in Nigeria. [Figure: see text]