UP Focuses on Cancer

by Jason Visser | Oct 19, 2024 | Breaking Headlines, News

The University of Pretoria is embarking on an ambitious initiative to develop a national cancer research and innovation strategy. It will be led by Prof. Mike Sathekge, the head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine and CEO & President of the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRi).

This initiative will be guided by the World Health Organization’s four pillars of cancer control: prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. UP’s strategy will adapt these principles to meet local needs by identifying specific risk factors and implementing targeted preventative measures. A strong emphasis will be placed on innovative diagnostic techniques and health education to ensure early detection and improved patient outcomes.

Prof. Sathekge stresses the importance of translating research into practical, affordable solutions through various collaborations with academics, the community, the government, and the industry at large. Funding will be acquired through academic projects and corporate social responsibility initiatives to ensure accessibility. Small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) will play a vital role in contributing to education, cost reduction, and health technology assessment. They can help lower material costs and support local procurement, enhancing the overall effectiveness.

Balancing high-tech advancements with traditional medicine is also one of the core focuses. The strategy will support both approaches, ensuring that high-tech methods complement and enhance conventional treatment. Traditional medicine will be analysed in a laboratory to identify its active ingredients, and an emphasis will be placed on preventing people from relying on unapproved treatments. Education will be crucial to integrating both high-tech and traditional approaches effectively.

Addressing the socio-economic dimensions of cancer care is imperative. It is crucial to incorporate evidence-based research, to respect cultural and religious beliefs, and to focus on developing infrastructure in underserved areas. This will address economic inequalities, the emigration of specialised staff, and limited public knowledge and infrastructure. By considering these factors, the aim is to provide equitable cancer care across different communities.

To promote collaboration and avoid isolated research efforts, inclusive projects and the formation of multidisciplinary teams will be encouraged. Projects that foster mentorship and collaboration will be prioritised. Recent workshops have introduced innovative solutions, such as artificial intelligence for marker detection and therapy planning, data science tools, African-specific genome models, and advancements in bio-entrepreneurship and technology transfer.

The success of the research will be measured through improved quality of life, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates. Regular assessments of the goals, economic value, and feedback from stakeholders will ensure alignment with national objectives. The draft strategy is expected to be completed and presented to Parliament by August 2025, marking a significant advancement in cancer research and care in South Africa.

Jason Visser
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