Enhancements in Children’s Cancer Diagnosis at QECH

The donation of a chemistry analyzer by the National Bank of Malawi at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital has drastically improved the efficiency of cancer diagnosis in children, reducing testing times from days to hours. This advancement aids early detection of various childhood cancers, enhancing patient care and alleviating parental anxiety. Health officials express gratitude for the support while calling for further resources to strengthen the department.

The prospect of having a child undergo cancer diagnosis at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) can be overwhelming for parents. Traditionally, it would take one or two days for results due to the limited availability of diagnostic equipment, causing unnecessary anxiety as families awaited confirmation. Numerous heartbreaking experiences were commonplace in the Child Cancer Ward before the introduction of a new chemistry analyzer, donated by the National Bank of Malawi (NBM) in 2023.

This new machine significantly enhances diagnostic efficiency by providing accurate and reliable results, facilitating early detection of childhood cancers. Among the prevalent cancers affecting children in Malawi are Leukemia, Burkitt Lymphoma, Wilms tumor, Retinoblastoma, and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. Each year, about 500 new cases are diagnosed, with QECH registering 20 to 30 patients monthly. In February, coinciding with World Cancer Day, the hospital celebrated their improved diagnostic capabilities due to this new technology, reducing the testing time from days to just one or two hours.

Dr. Beatrice Chikaphonya Phiri, a Pediatric Oncologist at QECH, noted that the chemistry analyzer has greatly improved the department’s operations. Previously, patients would experience delays in receiving results, impacting treatment decisions. Now, results are much quicker, ensuring that clinicians can manage patient care more effectively based on accurate data. Dr. Phiri expressed gratitude towards NBM for the generous donation, affirming that the analyzer has improved the quality of care.

Dr. Nthambose Simango, a Pediatrics Department Registrar, echoed Dr. Phiri’s sentiments, emphasizing the challenges previously faced due to lab overload and reagent shortages. The introduction of this analyzer allows for consistent accessibility to essential tests, reducing the risks of delayed patient management. However, Dr. Simango advocated for additional resources such as a mobile X-ray machine to assist patients unable to travel to the main X-ray department.

George Jobe, Executive Director of the Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN), highlighted that advancements in medical equipment positively impact healthcare delivery. He expressed optimism about future procurements that would further enhance service delivery. Meanwhile, Akossa Hiwa, NBM’s Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to investing in community health initiatives that yield sustainable and impactful outcomes.

This year’s theme for World Cancer Day, ‘United by Unique’, emphasizes the importance of every cancer journey and calls for collective efforts to provide compassionate, equitable care for all patients.

In summary, the donation of a new chemistry analyzer at QECH has revolutionized pediatric cancer diagnostics by dramatically reducing waiting times for results. This advancement not only enhances patient care but also alleviates the emotional burden on families. Continuous support and additional resources are critical to maintaining and further improving healthcare accessibility for children diagnosed with cancer in Malawi. Innovations like these establish a brighter future in pediatric oncology.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com