The Ethiopian Association of Anesthetists (EAA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, has officially launched an initiative titled “Improving Outcomes in Breast Cancer Surgery: Integrating Enhanced Recovery Protocols to Reduce Hospital Stays and Complications.” This project aims to improve breast cancer treatment and surgical outcomes across the nation. Supported by a grant from Pfizer Global Medical Grants, the initiative will implement the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol at Gondar University and Black Lion Specialized Hospital, marking a significant advancement in cancer care.
Amare Hailekiros, the ERAS Project Manager and Executive Director of the EAA, highlighted the urgency of this initiative, noting that approximately 685,000 women lose their lives to breast cancer globally each year. He emphasized the essential need for awareness campaigns, patient support networks, and early detection programs in Ethiopia, where timely interventions can transform breast cancer into a manageable condition.
Mr. Abiy Dawit, Director of Hospitals and Diagnostic Services at the Ministry of Health, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to the project’s success, offering technical support and monitoring throughout the process. He also emphasized plans to expand best practices from this initiative to other regions, aligning with the ministry’s broader focus on improving women’s health.
Professor Andulem Demeke from Addis Ababa University’s College of Health Sciences spoke about the collaborative efforts of the past two years aimed at increasing access to surgical treatments for breast cancer patients. In a statement made just ahead of International Women’s Day, Professor Andulem announced that preparations are underway to provide life-saving surgeries for ten breast cancer patients, reinforcing the association’s commitment to eliminating surgical backlogs.
Dr. Seyum Kassa, Head of the Surgical Department at Black Lion Hospital, expressed gratitude for Pfizer’s support. He explained that the ERAS protocol will enhance inpatient recovery, improve the quality of care, and ultimately extend services to local health centers. “This initiative will not only accelerate recovery but also ensure equitable access to advanced treatment for all Ethiopians,” Dr. Seyum stated.
The project launch brought together experts from Gondar University, Black Lion Hospital, Addis Ababa University, and the Ethiopian Anesthetists Association. They agreed to establish a collaborative forum aimed at strengthening research and implementation efforts. This partnership will foster innovation, share knowledge, and create a sustainable framework for combating breast cancer across Ethiopia.
This landmark initiative reflects Ethiopia’s proactive approach to addressing breast cancer, combining global expertise, local leadership, and community engagement to save lives and inspire hope.
