Collaborative Action for Public Health: The Esophageal Cancer Consortium's Approach to Policy Influence and Capturing Policy Makers' Attention in Ethiopia

Abstract

PURPOSE Esophageal cancer disproportionately affects specific regions in Ethiopia, particularly the Arsi Bale areas. 1 , 2 Studies reveal that more than 50% of esophageal cancer cases in Ethiopia originate from Arsi-Bale region. 3 Collaborative efforts by individuals and institutions from this region-initiated actions to elevate esophageal cancer as a national concern. This abstract illustrates the collaborative process and the formation of the Esophageal Cancer Consortium in Ethiopia. METHODS The method encompasses collaborative discussions, real-time documentation during detailed dialogues, and iterative reviews aimed at capturing the program's evolution and key achievements. Experts from clinical and public health fields, actively involved throughout the program's lifecycle, contributed insights from its inception to its current state. RESULTS Initiatives to prioritize esophageal cancer as a public health concern in Arsi-Bale regions were spearheaded by individuals and diasporas from these regions. These efforts led to the first conference at Arsi University in 2022, involving clinicians, researchers, public figures, and community leaders, along with four educational institutions, namely Arsi University, Madda Wallabu University, Adama Hospital Medical College, and Arsi Negelle General Hospital and Medical College, and International Oromo Health Professional Association (IOHPA). This conference resulted in forming the Southeast Esophageal Cancer Task Force (SEECTF). Progressive efforts, including regular weekly meetings under the structured SEECTF, led to the implementation of a first-of-its-kind endoscopy curriculum in Ethiopia, initiation of endoscopy diagnosis in previously unequipped hospitals, and the development of the first Esophageal cancer treatment guidelines and training manuals in Ethiopia. Community education pamphlets in local languages and community education through mass media were implemented. During the second national esophageal cancer conference in 2023, which led to national recognition, MOUs were signed with the Ministry of Health, Oromia Regional Health Bureau, the four educational institutions, and IOHPA. This conference resulted in the formation of a centralized consortium involving these institutions under one umbrella, working on research, advocacy, and capacity building, channeling esophageal cancer actions nationally. CONCLUSION Collaborative efforts by individuals and institutions are crucial in influencing policymakers, addressing public health concerns, and garnering national attention and action to reduce the burden of esophageal cancer and enhance patients' quality of life in Ethiopia.