A change roadmap towards research paradigm in low-resource countries: retinoblastoma model in Egypt

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Oncology
• Global Health
• Research Infrastructure Development

Background:

• Childhood diseases, particularly cancer, pose significant global health challenges, especially in developing nations.
• Establishing robust research programs is crucial for advancing treatment and outcomes for childhood cancers in low-resource settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the experience of initiating a structured childhood cancer research program in a developing country within a short timeframe, leveraging philanthropic support.
• To illustrate the program's development using retinoblastoma as a case study.

Main Methods:

• Improving clinical practice and support services.
• Developing new research services to complement clinical activities.
• Establishing a research foundation through various initiatives.

Main Results:

• Development of hospital standard treatment protocols and national clinical trials.
• Integration into international childhood cancer clinical trial consortia.
• Establishment of data collection tools, real-time analytics, and a biobanking facility.
• Formation of a qualified research team for clinical, epidemiological, and translational studies.
• Enhancement of national clinical practice and patient awareness.

Conclusions:

• The described model successfully established a childhood cancer research program in a developing country.
• This initiative improved both clinical practice and patient awareness, demonstrating a viable approach for similar settings.
• The model provides a framework for other institutions aiming to address national health problems in resource-limited environments.