Cancer Care Must Go Beyond Medicine to Restore Survivors’ Lives — Oncologist
Addis Ababa, October 31, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopian oncologist and Associate Professor Dr. Binyam Tefera has called for psychological, social and economic support to be integrated into cancer care, emphasizing that treatment must extend beyond medication to ensure patients’ long-term recovery and well-being.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for breast cancer survivors who had completed vocational training, Dr. Binyam, Executive Director of Bridge the Gap Ethiopia, stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to cancer care that addresses both patients’ medical and non-medical needs.
He said efforts were underway to advocate for the inclusion of psychosocial support in national cancer care policies, emphasizing the importance of helping patients rebuild their lives beyond medical treatment.
The ceremony marked the completion of a joint initiative by Adama Hospital College, Hope Consultancy, Hora Health Consultancy and Bridge the Gap Ethiopia to empower breast cancer survivors with practical vocational skills.
Participants received training in paper bag production, equipping them with skills to pursue income-generating activities and achieve greater economic independence after treatment.
Dr. Binyam emphasized that cancer survivors need sustained support to regain financial stability and called on stakeholders to help establish market linkages for products made through such initiatives.
Addressing broader challenges in cancer care in Ethiopia, he noted that early detection and appropriate treatment significantly improve patients’ chances of survival.
He identified delays in seeking medical attention and fear of a cancer diagnosis as major factors contributing to cancer-related deaths in the country, calling for greater public awareness and timely access to healthcare.
Dr. Binyam further stressed that life continues beyond cancer and that survivors should have opportunities to reintegrate into society and lead productive, economically independent lives.
As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, he called for intensified awareness campaigns to promote early detection, encourage timely treatment and strengthen community support for cancer patients and survivors.
By Helen Tadese