Second Edition of the Oncology Days – 2024

The Second Edition of the Oncology Days brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, advocates, and the pharmaceutical industry to engage in meaningful discussions about the future of cancer care in Morocco. This two-day event, organized by the dedicated teams at the Lalla Salma Foundation for Cancer Prevention and Treatment and CHU Ibn Sina (CHUIS), focused on advancing cancer management in the RSK region and aligning with the broader development strategies of CHU Ibn Sina. It provided a platform for collaboration and showcased the collective commitment to improving cancer care in the region.

The event featured numerous distinguished speakers, including Dr. Rachid Bekkali, Director of the Lalla Salma Foundation, who delivered the opening speech and also presented the synthesis and recommendations of these days, and Pr. Raouf Mohsine, Director of CHU Ibn Sina,  who presented the keynote address on CHUIS’s role in the regional health system. Topics and presentations by renowned experts ranged from financial governance and oncological surgery to cutting-edge advances in medical oncology, radiotherapy, and cancer management. These discussions underscored the complexity of cancer care and the need for a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

A significant moment for NABD-BC2 was the MSD Symposium session on feminine cancers, featuring three speakers: Mme Ikram Eseghir, Dr. Narjiss Berrada, and Dr. Rachida Chami. As a Person with Lived Experience (PWLE) and a patient advocate, Mme Eseghir delivered a presentation titled “The Patient’s Engagement in Cancer Care Pathways: Experiences and Challenges.” Drawing from her personal experience with cancer, her advocacy work as the founding president of NABD-BC2, and her academic background (holding a university degree as a patient expert in oncology – DUPPC), she highlighted the evolution of meaningful engagement of PWLE through  international framework and endeavours (such as those from the WHO) and national initiatives (from the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, which seeks to adapt The WHO Framework of meaningful engagement, set priorities, and develop national action plans).

Mme Eseghir also highlighted the challenges faced by patients and the transformative impact of integrating the patient’s voice into healthcare decision-making. She emphasized that a patient-centered approach significantly enhances health outcomes, the quality of care, and patient well-being. Her presentation reminded the audience of the critical role of patients in shaping care pathways and advancing oncology practices. By sharing her story, she underscored the importance of resilience and advocacy in improving the overall healthcare experience for cancer patients.

Beyond the clinical and scientific presentations, the event fostered an atmosphere of collaboration and solidarity. It became evident that the future of cancer care relies not only on research and innovation but also on the active engagement of patients, families, and communities. The inclusion of persons with lived experience served as a poignant reminder of the human aspect of cancer care, where strategies must be informed by the real-life challenges and experiences of patients. This holistic perspective is key to building a more inclusive and effective healthcare system.

As the event concluded, participants left with a deeper understanding of the current state of cancer management in Morocco and a renewed commitment to advancing patient care and research. The Second Edition of the Oncology Days was more than a gathering of experts; it was a celebration of shared vision and dedication to a patient-centered approach in the fight against cancer. NABD-BC2 Association was honored to be part of this occasion and expresses sincere gratitude to Lalla Salma Foundation, CHU Ibn Sina, and all stakeholders who contributed to its success.