Enhancing Pediatric Cancer Diagnosis Efficiency at QECH

The donation of a chemistry analyzer by the National Bank of Malawi has significantly improved the speed and accuracy of childhood cancer diagnoses at QECH. Previously slow and often error-prone procedures have been streamlined, allowing for results within hours rather than days. This advancement contributes to better healthcare outcomes for the approximately 500 children diagnosed with cancer annually in Malawi.

The prospect of undergoing a cancer diagnosis at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) can be daunting for parents. Typically, diagnosing a child can take one to two days, often requiring multiple procedures if initial samples go missing. This delay contributes to anxiety as parents witness their child’s health declining while awaiting results.

The situation improved significantly with the National Bank of Malawi’s donation of a chemistry analyzer in 2023. This equipment provides rapid and accurate test results, facilitating earlier detection of pediatric cancer. Common cancers affecting children in Malawi include leukemia, Burkitt lymphoma, Wilms tumor, retinoblastoma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Annually, about 500 children are diagnosed, with QECH receiving 20-30 new patients monthly.

During World Cancer Day in February, it was noted that the QECH Children’s Cancer Ward had made 264 diagnoses in the preceding year. Thanks to the chemistry analyzer, which allows for results to be obtained within one to two hours, the experience for both doctors and families has improved remarkably.

Dr. Beatrice Chikaphonya Phiri, a pediatric oncologist, noted, “Usually, we would send the samples to the main lab, and sometimes the lab did not have reagents to do kidney or liver function tests. Now, you can get the results in one or two hours…” The analyzer has thus ensured more reliable results, enhancing patient care.

Dr. Nthambose Simango, a registrar in the Pediatrics Department, highlighted the previous challenges of delays caused by overloading the main lab. “We were unable to do those tests, delaying management and sometimes treating patients blindly,” she stated. The new machine has provided more consistent test availability, improving patient management.

Nonetheless, there is an ongoing need for a constant supply of reagents and a mobile X-ray machine for patients unable to travel to the X-ray department. George Jobe, Executive Director of the Malawi Health Equity Network, remarked on the improvement in healthcare standards, emphasizing the significance of acquiring new equipment.

Akossa Hiwa, NBM plc Marketing and Corporate Affairs Manager, emphasized the bank’s commitment to impactful corporate social investments. “It is fulfilling to note that the chemistry analyzer we gifted the Child Cancer Ward continues to make a difference in the lives of Malawian children,” she said. The theme for the year, ‘United by Unique’, highlights the importance of collective action in ensuring equitable cancer care.

The introduction of the chemistry analyzer at QECH represents a significant advancement in the diagnosis and treatment of childhood cancer in Malawi. With improved test turnaround times and accurate results, healthcare providers can manage patient care more effectively. The ongoing collaboration between healthcare providers and organizations like the National Bank of Malawi plays a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare outcomes for children with cancer.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com