Presented by Njeri M. Kaittany, MS, RT(T)
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Recorded May 14, 2020

This session will explore the shortage of global cancer care and increase awareness specifically in low middle-income countries (LMICs). Annual global cancer cases will rise from 1.5 million in 2015 to 25 million by 2035. Tragically 65-70% of these cases will occur in LMICs. Moreover, the session will be provided innovative solutions that incorporate capabilities arising in technology, education and professional expertise. The attendees will also be provided with collaborative literature from leading organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as well as others that pertain to access to global radiotherapy and the widespread global cancer crisis.

Learner Outcomes:

1. Contribute to the existing awareness on global cancer incidences specifically in LMICs.
2. Educate on limited resources, shortfalls in technology, personnel staffing and financial resource allocation.
3. Educate on disparities between HICs and LMICs
4. Understand a large academic medical centers’ strategy on addressing disparities in LMICs and to build capacity within this space.
5. Review mechanisms for improving quality in LMICs.

Educational Level: Entry Level

Presenter:
Njeri Kaittany, RT(T), is an expert radiation therapist with extensive patient-focused experience providing high quality radiotherapy treatment and culturally competent care to diverse patient populations.  From 2011-2013, Njeri took up her studies in radiation therapy at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, one of the largest and renowned cancer centers in the world. In 2018, she attained her MS in administrative leadership at the same academic institution.

Njeri has worked at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center for 6 years as a radiation therapist. To leverage both her technical and patient-focused care experience coupled with in-depth knowledge of international communities, Njeri seeks to impact global communities by increasing awareness to global cancer care. She started a book club to create a platform where fellow colleagues can contribute to the body of literature on global cancer care.

In her free time, Njeri is learning film directing, acting, voice-over acting and enjoys traveling around the world.