POFF FOUNDATION

Services

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Abu Obayed M. Sharifullah, Director of the Office of Diversity Programs in Clinical Care, Research, and Training

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (POFFCH&RI)'s Office of Diversity Programs in Clinical Care, Research, Training and Rehabilitation was established in 2012 to address disparities in cancer outcomes based on race, ethnicity, cultural differences, and socioeconomic status.

The Office of Diversity Programs has four core areas of focus: clinical care, research, training and rehabilitation.

The training core works to improve diversity in the healthcare community through the recruitment, retention, and development of racially and ethnically diverse faculty, fellows, and residents at POFFCH&RI. In addition, the training core participates in outreach programs to Dhaka City high schools and medical schools to increase the number of underrepresented minorities pursuing careers in science or healthcare.

The research core focuses on expanding the participation of minority patients in cancer clinical trials, and on developing a coordinated research program to help reduce and eliminate cancer-related health disparities.

The clinical core concentrates on outreach to Dhaka City’s racial and ethnic minority and medically underserved populations to increase their utilization of POFFCH&RI’s prevention, screening, and treatment programs.

Learn more about our activities using the links below.

Locations

For Adult Patients

For Child & Teen Patients

For Healthcare Professionals

For Research Scientists

Careers

For Child & Teen Patients

For Research Scientists

1.Consultation and treatment are renderings day and night in it's 3 Out-lets in Gopalgonj, Khulna and Dhaka

2. Investigations:

-Blood Routine Examinations, Liver Function Tests, Renal Function Tests, Lipid Profile, LDH, Uric Acid, Calcium, etc

-Tumour Markers, Immunohistochemistry.

-Urine R/M/E, Stool R/M/E, Occult Blood Test

- FNAC, Histopathological Examinations, Cyotology etc

-ECG

3. Treatment:

- Surgery, Chemotherapy, Hormonetherapy, Immunotherapy, Target Therapy and etc.

4.Research works, Bangladesh Cancer Journal(BCJ) is the Official Organ of POFFCH&RI since 2017

5. Monthly Awareness Programme in the Name of "Cancer Answer"

6.. 24 hours Ambulance services

7. Social Services

8. Rehabilitation services

9. Arranging Global Online Breast Cancer Tumour Board and Gynaecologic Tumour Board with Global Cancer Institute, Boston, USA Twice in a Month.

10. Arranging Webinar discussion on Advanced Breast Cancer with ABC Global Alliance.

ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSOR DR. OBAYEDULLAH-FERDOUSI FOUNDATION IN 2017

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation (POFF), Gopalgonj though established in 1993 was registered in 2012 (Regd. No. Gop-766/12) with an aim to raise awareness against cancer, deliver services in the field of medical science, education, agriculture, social-welfare, rehabilitation etc to the mass people of Bangladesh. It also works in the field of prevention, detection, treatment, palliative care, research and training dedicated to combat cancer through it’s project proposed 100-bedded Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (POFFCH&RI). It is a non-political, non-commercial, non-profit, voluntary, social welfare, philanthropic government approved and government financed organization and the Honorable Prime Minister of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh is the proposed Chief Patron of the POFF.

Activities for Cancer Control:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute is the proud member of Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) from Marach,2016.Since it’s inception in 2012 POFFC&RI has been arranging rally, discussion meeting , human chain , drawing &essay competition on observance of World cancer Day , World No Tobacco Day , Breast Cancer Awareness Month October each year in accordance with the guideline given by UICC . On the basis of plan & program for cancer prevention & control POFFCH&RI organizes regularly seminar, symposium , workshop , anti-tobacco campaign program to increase the cancer awareness of the people of Bangladesh . Also circulate handbills , lift lets , brochure , poster , festoons , banners among the people , participate in the talk show and round table discussion in the electronic media and publish articles in the print media. On behalf of Foundation , Oncologists attend workshops , seminars , meeting ,ASCO Annual meeting, UICC World Cancer Congress at National & International level.

POFFCH&RI Research Activities:

The Foundation is also working for research programs nationally and internationally and publishes it’s journal “Bangladesh Cancer Journal” (BCJ) regularly. It’s Volume No. 1 and Issue No.1 was published in January 2017 and Vol. No.1 Issue No.2 was publish in July 2017. As POFFCH&RI is the proud member of Global Cancer Institute(GCI), Boston, USA and American Society of Clinical Oncology(ASCO), so oncologists and doctors of POFFCH&RI attended 12 times at Global Online Breast Cancer Tumor Board and 12 times at Global Online Gynecologic Cancer Tumor Board from January 2017 to December 2017, where 36 very rare, interesting, and academic Breast Cancer cases and 36 Gynecologic Cancer patients were presented from different countries of the world. And where more than 20 renowned oncologists and panelists from whole over the world including USA and Bangladesh took part in the discussion.

Mutual patient of POFFCH&RI and GCI Anjona again went to New York on 7^th May 2017 and to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA for 1^st follow-up investigations, treatment and research on 9^th May 2017 under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI. At the end of 6 month course of LOXO-101, Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki noticed that she had got relapse of her disease with a small ulcer on left supraclavicular region. And obvious recurrences were observed in the lungs, bones and left supraclavicular region during these follow up investigations. Then at a joint discussion between Consultant Oncologists of MSKCC and Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, her drug schedule had changed and started treatment at MSKCC since 20^th May, 2017 with the changed schedule with New Experimental Drug of Loxo Oncology ,Cap. Loxo-195 100mg, 4 capsules twice daily free of cost with concurrent radiotherapy. In the mean time Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki returned home on 21^st May 2017. And Anjona received concurrent radiation therapy with TD 3600 CGray on her chest wall 18 fractions and returned home on 6^th August 2017 with full recovery. She was continued the treatment with the supplied changed drugs from MSKCC under supervision of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI, Bangladesh till October 2017. During this period, she underwent monthly follow up and investigations like CBC, LFT, KFT, Opthalmoscopic Examination etc at POFFCH&RI till 20th October 2017 and all investigations were within normal limit and her general condition was quite satisfactory. Then as a part of 2^nd follow up, Anjona and her mother again went to MSKCC, New York with an oncologist Prof. Dr. MD. Khorshed Alam of POFFCH&RI on 20^th October 2017 when all investigational reports were within normal limit. She came back home on 29^th October 2017 and was continued the treatment with the supplied drugs Cap. Loxo-195 and others from MSKCC under supervision of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI, Bangladesh till January 2018. During this period, she underwent monthly follow up and investigations like CBC, LFT, KFT, Opthalmoscopic Examination etc at POFFCH&RI till 19^th January 2018 and all investigations were within normal limit and her general condition was quite satisfactory.

Hospital Activities:

POFFCH&RI has one main campus and two outlets. Main Campus is situated at Paikkandi, Gopalgonj and among two outlets, one is situated in Dhaka and another in Khulna. Main campus owns 5-storied two buildings at Paikkandi , Gopalgonj , Bangladesh . Here POFFCH&RI is running it’s office , outdoor and Indoor patient services , palliative care services , anti-cancer campaign programmes , social services , and a 20 bedded POFFCH&RI . With one professor cum Managing Director & 4 Oncologists , 10 Medical officers & a good number of Guest Cancer Specialists are giving services for the wellbeing of cancer patients on Indoor & outdoor basis . A good number of patients are receiving full time service from the foundation Hospital. The Pathology Department of the Hospital are giving services for the basic pathological requirements of the patient, including Hematology, Serology, Biochemistry, Tumor Markers,Histopathology, Cytopathology etc. . Ambulance is giving day night services for the benefit of the cancer patient . Currently we are working with a project to build a 100 bedded modern comprehensive POFFCH&RI Hospital . The Aim of POFFCH&RI is to provide on roof service for the care of cancer patients. We are also taking steps for fund raising from different government, non government agencies , NGOs, organizations , institutional bodies , philanthropists and anybody who shares the idea to be with us .

We wrote a letter to Internal Resource Division of Ministry of Finance, Government of Peoples Republic of Bangladesh in favor of POFFCH&RI to run Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute Lottery for raising funds to build up a modern cancer hospital. Also applied for Grants from regular budget of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for POFFCH&RI. It was really a great news for POFF family that we had have started the initiative for raising fund from our beloved government.

Programs of POFF up to June 2017 :

International Cancer Congress and Health Fair-2017:

POFFC&RI and Bangladesh Cancer Society jointly organized an International Cancer Congress and Health Fair-2017 from 27the to 29^th January-2017 at Bangabandhu international Conference Center at Agargaon, Dhaka , Bangladesh . About one thousand national & international faculties &delegates were participated in this congress from about.

World Cancer day :

World Cancer Day is the one singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic. It takes place every year on 4^th February. Like every year POFF celebrated 4^th February , 2017 World Cancer Day in befitting manner . Throughout the year Foundation organized various activities to prevent and create awareness against cancer .This year World cancer Day was observed properly in accordance to the guidance of UICC . The UICC Theme We can . I can .” wad uphold with launching a poster against prevention of cancer . Also , banners and leaflets were distributed among mass people , rally and formation of human chain at different prominent places in Dhaka city & Gopalgonj were performed .

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

POFF observed the independence day with due honor . Arranged a discussion meeting at Dhaka on 3rd April 2017 at Conference Hall of BCS where Mr. AKM Mozammel Hoque, Minister of Liberation War was present as Chief Guest and Chairman, Muktijodda Sangsad Central Command Council Maj. General (Rtd.) Helal Morshed Khan and Secretary General of Sadhinata Chikitsok Porisad Prof. Dr. Md. Aziz were present as Special Guests. Also pay homage to the martyrs of liberation war at mausoleum , Savar on 26^th March 2017.

Membership of Global Cancer Institute:

POFFCH&RI was accredited by proud member of Global Cancer Institute (GCI), Boston, US since April 2016, after that UICC and ASCO Membership. POFFCH&RI is the only cancer institution in Bangladesh who achieved this prestigious award . After that Oncologists and Doctors of POFFCH&RI have been participating twice in a month Online Global Tumor Board , One for Breast Cancer Tumor Board, One for Gynecologic Cancer Tumor Board videoconference organize by GCI till date. Doctors specially Oncologists from about 24 low and middle income countries across Asia, Latin America , Estern Europe and Africa and more then 12 renowned Oncologists from whole over the world take part in these live Global Online Tumor Boards. In 2017, oncologists, doctors of POFFCH&RI attended at 12 Breast Cancer Tumor Boards and 12 Gynecologic Tumor Boards where about 36 very interesting, rare and academic breast cancer patients and 36 very interesting, rare and academic gynecologic cancer patients were presented.

World No Tobacco Day:

Like every year POFF observed 31st May , 2017 as World No Tobacco Day. World No Tobacco Day-2017 was observed in Dhaka and Gopalgonj in a befitting manner. In Dhaka art competition arranged among the school going children . Also street rally & leaflet distribution with anti-tobacco slogans were performed . Activists of POFFCH&RI participated in a rally from National Press Club to Osmani Auditorium on 31^st May 2017 followed by a discussion meeting at Osmani Auditorium organized by Minister of Health & Family Welfare which were broadcasted in electronic and print media . A discussion meeting was also organized jointly by POFF and BCS Gopalgonj branch at Conference Room of Diabetic Hospital Gopalgonj on 31^st May at 5.00 PM at conference room of Diabetic Hospital Gopalgonj where me was present as the Chief Guest and Civil Surgeon Gopalgonj was present as The Special Guest.

Observance of National Mourn Day-2017:

Like every year, POFF observed 15^th August 2017 the “National Mourn Day-2017” with due respect and dignity. At 8.00 AM activists of POFFCH&RI paid homage with flower wreaths to the Portait of the Father of The Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi and Tungipara. On observance of national mourn day, POFFCH&RI, BCS and Bangladesh Muktijoddha and Projormo Chikitsok Porisad jointly organized a discussion meeting at 3.00 PM at Dr. Shahadat Hossain Conference Hall on 19^th August 2017. Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua, Vice Chancellor, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University was present as chief guest.

Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2017:

Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2017 was observed in befitting manner. Month-long breast screening program was organized by senior doctors and oncologists free of cost and breast cancer related brochure, liftlets and banners were distributed. POFFCH&RI, BCS and Bangladesh Breast Cancer Society Cumilla jointly organized a seminar on “Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2018” at Government Women’s College Cumilla. Me was present as Chief Guest. Mr. Jamal Naser, Principal, Cumilla Women’s College and Dr. Fazlur Rahman, Deputy Director, Directorate General Office were present as special guests and Dr. Khorshed Alam, President, Bangladesh Breast Cancer Society Cumilla presided over the meeting. About 400 girls students, teachers, pressmen were present.

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

POFF observed the Independence Day-2017 with due honour . On 16^th December 2017 at 10.00 AM, the activists of POFF headed by it’s Chairman Ferdousi Begum and MD and CEO Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki paid homage with flowers to the martyrs of liberation war at mausoleum , Savar. Reporters of Channel I took interview of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki and broad cast in their channels. Arranged a discussion meeting on 24^th December 2017 at 10.00 AM at Dr.Shahadat Hossain Conference Hall of Bangladesh Cancer Society where Mr. Md. Mozammel Hoque was present as Chief Guest. Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua, Vice Chancellor, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Dr. Mostafa Jalal Mohiuddin, Ex. MP and President Bangladesh Medical Association were present as Special Guests. About 300 high officials, elite personals, reporters, members of POFF and audiences were present.

Cancer Answer Programmes:

POFFCH&RI organized monthly Cancer Answer programme in different schools, colleges, clubs, bazars, public places in Bangladesh to raise the awareness of the people specially young generations about the risk factors of having cancer like smooking tobacco, chewing pan with betelnuts, lime, jardha, raw tobacco, use gull, khaini, kimam, dasta; early marriage, multipara, multiple sexual partners, unhygienic condition of female dwellers; intake of more red meat, fatty foods, fast foods, junk foods, less intake of fibrous foods like green leaves, vegetables, fruits; sedanterian life style; obesity, non breast feeding mothers and etc. .

Other activities:

POFF also plays a vital role in social services like donation to various religious programmes, cultural programmes, sports, marriage ceremony, any natural disaster etc. Also awarded stipends and scholarships among brilliant students of schools and colleges.

ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSOR DR. OBAYEDULLAH-FERDOUSI FOUNDATION CANCER HOSPITAL

& RESEARCH INSTITUTE IN 2018

Activities for Cancer Control:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute is the proud member of Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) from March, .

2016. Since it’s inception in 2012 POFFC&RI has been arranging rally, discussion meeting , human chain , drawing & essay competition on observance of World Cancer Day , World No Tobacco Day , Breast Cancer Awareness Month October each year in accordance with the guideline given by UICC . On the basis of plan & program for cancer prevention & control POFFCH&RI organizes regularly seminar, symposium , workshop , anti-tobacco campaign program to increase the cancer awareness of the people of Bangladesh . Also circulate handbills , lift lets , brochure , poster , festoons , banners among the people , participate in the talk show and round table discussion in the electronic media and publish articles in the print media. On behalf of Foundation , Oncologists attend workshops , seminars , meeting ,ASCO Annual meeting, UICC World Cancer Congress, national and international conferences at National & International level.

POFFCH&RI Research Activities:

The Foundation is also working for research programs nationally and internationally and publishes it’s journal “Bangladesh Cancer Journal” (BCJ). It’s Volume No. 1 and Issue No.1 was published in January 2017 , Vol. No.1 Issue No.2 was published in July 2017, Vol.2, Issue 1 in January 2018 and Vol.1,Issue 2 is pending. As POFFCH&RI is the proud member of Global Cancer Institute(GCI), Boston, USA and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), so doctors specially Oncologists from about 24 low and middle income countries across Asia, Latin America , Eastern Europe and Africa including POFFCH&RI and more than 20 renowned Oncologists and 10 expert panelists from whole over the world took part in these Live Global Tumor Boards . So oncologists and doctors of POFFCH&RI attended 12 times at Global Online Breast Cancer Tumor Board and 12 times at Global Online Gynecologic Cancer Tumor Board from January 2018 to December 2018, where 72 very rare, interesting, and academic cases were presented from about 24 low and middle income countries across Asia, Latin America , Eastern Europe and Africa of the world and more than 20 renowned Oncologists and 10 expert panelists from whole over the world including Bangladesh and USA took part in these live Global Tumor Boards .

Mutual patient of POFFCH&RI and GCI Anjona went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA for 5^th follow-up treatment and research on 14^th April 2018 under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI, where all investigations like routine blood examinations, liver function tests, kidney function tests, PET Scan, echocardiography etc were performed . All investigational reports were within normal limit. And returned home on 22^nd April 2018 with full recovery and advised to continue treatment with the same drug Cap. 195 50mg 4 Cap. B.D. Again Anjona went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA for 6^th follow-up treatment and research on 13th July 2018 under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI, where all investigations like routine blood examinations, liver function tests, kidney function tests, PET Scan, echocardiography etc were performed . All investigational reports were also within normal limit. And returned home on 23^rd July 2018 with full recovery and advised to continue treatment with the same drug Cap. 195 50mg 4 Cap. B.D.

Again Anjona went to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA for 7^thfollow-up treatment and research on 14^th November 2018 under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, Chief Consultant Oncologist of POFFCH&RI, where all investigations like routine blood examinations, liver function tests, kidney function tests, PET Scan, echocardiography etc were performed . All investigational reports were also within normal limit. And returned home on 21^stNovember 2018 with full recovery and advised to continue treatment with the same drug Cap. 195 50mg 4 Cap. B.D.

Hospital Activities:

POFFCH&RI has one main campus and two outlets. Main Campus is situated at Paikkandi, Gopalgonj and among two outlets, one is situated in Dhaka and another in Khulna. Main campus owns 5-storied two buildings at Paikkandi , Gopalgonj , Bangladesh . Here POFFCH&RI is running it’s office , outdoor and Indoor patient services , palliative care services , anti-cancer campaign programmes , social services , and a 20 bedded POFFCH&RI . With one Professor cum Managing Director & 4 Oncologists , 10 Medical officers, 10 nurses & a good number of Guest Cancer Specialists are giving services for the wellbeing of cancer patients on Indoor & outdoor basis . A good number of patients are receiving full time service from the foundation Hospital. The Pathology Department of the Hospital are giving services round the clock for the basic pathological requirements of the patient, including Hematology, Serology, Biochemistry, Tumor Markers, Histopathology, Cytopathology etc. Ambulance is giving day night services for the benefit of the cancer patients. From July 2018 to June 2019 total number of patients attended at POFFCH&RI were 3520, out of them 1520 were indoor and 2000 were outdoor patients, 355 were free of cost and 3165 were less cost. Pathology services were rendered among 3210 patients. Out of them 385 were free and 2825 less cost. All treatments and investigations were also rendered in reduced prices or free of cost. Except this, Free Medical Camps were organized among poor patients time to time when free consultation and medicines were supplied to them. Fare

of ambulance services were minimal. As a whole, our hospital services are world class under the guidance and supervision of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, national and international reputed cancer specialist.

Currently we are working with a project to build a 100 bedded modern comprehensive POFFCH&RI Hospital. One acre land was purchased at Mouza-Shunasur, P.O. Paikkandi, Upazilla-Gopalgonj, Zilla- Gopalgonj and drawing, design, soil test etc has been completed. The Aim of POFFCH&RI is to provide on roof service for the care of cancer patients. We are also taking steps for fund raising from different government, non government agencies , NGOs, organizations , institutional bodies , philanthropists and anybody who shares the idea to be with us .

Internal Resource Division of Ministry of Finance sanctioned a letter on 16^thApril 2018 in favor of POFFCH&RI to run Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute Lottery – 2019 from 17^th February 2019 for raising funds to build up a modern cancer hospital. It is really a great news for POFF family and we are grateful to our beloved Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government for their generosity and greatness. Also Grants from regular budget of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare are under process for POFFCH&RI.

Programs of POFF and POFFCH&RI in 2018 :

World Cancer Day :

World Cancer Day is the one singular initiative under which the entire world can unite together in the fight against the global cancer epidemic. It takes place every year on 4^th February.

As POFFCH&RI is the proud member of UICC, so like every year POFF celebrated 4^th February , 2018 World Cancer Day in befitting manner . Throughout the year Foundation organized various activities to prevent and create awareness against cancer .This year World cancer Day was observed properly in accordance to the guidance of UICC . The UICC Theme "We can . I can .” was uphold with launching a poster against prevention of cancer . Also , banners and leaflets were distributed among mass people , rally and formation of human chain at different prominent places in Dhaka city & Gopalgonj were performed .

Observance of International Mother Language Day:

Like every year, POFF observes 21^st February 2018, the "Shahid Dibosh Day” as International Mother Language Day. At 7.00 AM we paid homage with flower wreaths to the Central Shahid Minar, Dhaka and Shahid Minar at Gopalgonj.

World No Tobacco Day:

Like every year POFF observed 31st May , 2018 as World No Tobacco Day`. World No Tobacco Day-2018 was observed in Dhaka and Gopalgonj in a befitting manner. In Dhaka art competition arranged among the school going children . Also street rally & leaflet distribution with anti-tobacco slogans were performed . Activists of POFFCH&RI participated in a rally from National Press Club to Osmani Auditorium on 31^st May 2018 at 11.40 AM along with activists of other organizations ignoring the heavy rain fall under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki, MD and CEO POFFCH&RI and President Bangladesh Cancer Society. Due to heavy rain fall, NTCC coordinator Mr. Khairul Alam and Health Minister were absent. Monir and Aslam brought Ganji and Cap from Aminul Islam Sujon of NTCC office for activists of POFFCH&RI and BCS. Then we attended the discussion meeting at Osmani Auditorium organized by Minister of Health & Family Welfare which were broadcasted in electronic and print media. This year founder president of Bangladesh Cancer Society Late Prof. Syiid Fazlul Hoque was awarded for recognition of anti-tobacco activities of Bangladesh Cancer Society since it’s inception in 1972. As a President of Bangladesh cancer Society, I received the award from Health Minister Md. Nasim and Health Health Secretary Md. Sirajul Hoque Khan. Officially POFFCH&RI was invited first time to attend the World No Tobacco Day events. We installed two stalls , one for POFFCH&RI and one for BCS in the Osmani Auditorium to circulate our liftlets, brochures, handbills etc. Health Secretary and other high officials visited our stalls and express their satisfaction on activities of POFFCH&RI and BCS. A discussion meeting was also organized by POFFCH&RI of Conference Room of POFFCH&RI, Paikkandi, Gopalgonj on 31^st May, 2018 at 5.00 PM where students of local schools and imam, muazzins of different madrasas and mosques were present. Except this, POFFCH&RI ran a Tobacco Cessation Consultation to increase the awareness of the general people about the bad effects of tobacco products like cancer, heart diseases, lung diseases, burger’s diseases etc.

Fund Raising Charity Dinner in New York:

POFFCH&RI organized a Fund Raising Charity Dinner at Palky Centre, Jackson Heights, New York< USA on 21^st August 2018 in befitting manner. Dr. S. Roberts, Director Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre, New York was present as Chief Guest. Mrs. Heather Roberts, a social worker and famous dancer of New York, Kazi Hyatt, renowned film producer of Bangladesh and mutual breast cancer patient of POFFCH&RI and MSKCC were present as Special Guests. Mr. Shoraf Sarker, eminent social worker and Convenor, Fund Raising Committee in USA presided over the event. Dr. Md. Abdul Baten played a vital role as chief Co-ordinator. Mr. Abu Obayed M. Shafiullah Meem, Director, International Affairs of POFF, who lives in Konnecticut, Mr. Harun Rashid and his wife Farzana Harun also from Konnecticut, Mr. Hiru Bhuiyan, Topur Mollah, Easin Ali and many others also played a vital role to make the event successful. Mrs. Farzana Harun and Meem Shafiullah acted as moderator. About 200 CIP,VIP, elite personal, social workers and relatives were present in the event.

Participation in 3^rd Annual Meeting and Scientific Conference of Federation of Society of Radiation Oncologists:

Me as Chief Oncologist of POFFCH&RI and Mrs. Ferdousi Begum Shikha as Chairman of POFF attended the 3^rd Annual Meeting and Scientific Conference of Federation of Society of Radiation Oncologists in Bali, Indonesia along with other 15 delegates from Bangladesh from 5^th September to 9^th September 2018. We were acquainted with the new knowledge and technologies of radiation oncology from this event.

Observance of National Mourn Day-2018:

Like every year, POFF observed 15^th August 2018 the “National Mourn Day-2018” with due respect and dignity. At 8.00 AM activists of POFFCH&RI paid homage with flower wreaths to the Portait of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi and Tungipara. On observance of national mour day, POFFCH&RI, BCS and Bangladesh Muktijoddha and Projormo Chikitsok Porisad jointly organized a discussion meeting at 3.00 PM at Dr. Shahadat Hossain Conference Hall on 27^th August 2018. Dr. Mostafa Jalal Mohiuddin, President Bangaldesh Medical Association was present as chief guest. I myself presided over the meeting. Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua, Vice Chancellor, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and Dr. Ehteshamul Hoque Chowdhury , Secretary General BMA were present as special guests.

Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2018:

Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2018 was observed in befitting manner. Month-long breast screening program was organized by senior doctors and oncologists free of cost and breast cancer related brochure, liftlets and banners were distributed. POFFCH&RI, BCS and Bangladesh Breast Cancer Society Cumilla jointly organized a seminar on “Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2018” at Government Women’s College Cumilla. Me was present as Chief Guest. Mr. Jamal Naser, Principal, Cumilla Women’s College and Dr. Fazlur Rahman, Deputy Director, Directorate General Office were present as special guests and Dr. Khorshed Alam, President, Bangladesh Breast Cancer Society Cumilla presided over the meeting. About 400 girls students, teachers, pressmen were present.

Observance of Independence Day 2018 :

POFF observed the Independence Day-2018 with due honour . On 16^th December 2018 at 10.00 AM, the activists of POFF headed by it’s Chairman Ferdousi Begum and MD and CEO Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki paid homage with flowers to the martyrs of liberation war at mausoleum , Savar. Reporters of BTV, GTV and RTV took interview of Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki and broad cast in their channels. Arranged a discussion meeting on 23^rd December 2018 at 11.00 AM at Conference Hall of National Press Club where Mr. Md. Yousuf Harun, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Prof. Dr. Kanak Kanti Barua, Vice Chancellor, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University was present as Chief Guest and Mr. Abu Naser Khan, President, Poribesh Andolon and Prof. Md. Sirajul Hoque, President, Bangladesh, Muktijoddha & Projormo Chikitsok Porishod were present as Special Guests. About 200 high officials, elite personals, reporters, members of POFF and audiences were present.

Cancer Answer Programmes:

POFFCH&RI organized monthly Cancer Answer programme in different schools, colleges, clubs, bazars, public places in Bangladesh to raise the awareness of the people specially young generations about the risk factors of having cancer. On 20^th April 2018 at 13.00 PM to 14.00 PM, a Live Cancer Answer Programme was organized by POFFCH&RI at Paediatric Oncology Department of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre , New York, USA. Treasurer of POFFCH&RI, Mr. Abu Obayed M. Sharifullah Jim

Planned this live Cancer Answer from Vanice, Italy and Director International Affairs of POFFCH&RI conducted this at MSKCC. Many internal audiences observed this exclusive programme and made questions to Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki. This was really a milestone for POFFCH&RI.

Other activities:

POFF also plays a vital role in social services like donation to various religious programmes, cultural programmes, sports, marriage ceremony, any natural disaster etc.

ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSOR DR. OBAYEDULLAH-FERDOUSI FOUNDATION IN 2017

Activities for Cancer Control:

POFFCH&RI Research Activities:

Hospital Activities:

Programs of POFF up to June 2017 :

International Cancer Congress and Health Fair-2017:

World Cancer day :

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Membership of Global Cancer Institute:

World No Tobacco Day:

Observance of National Mourn Day-2017:

Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2017:

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Cancer Answer Programmes:

Other activities:

ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSOR DR. OBAYEDULLAH-FERDOUSI FOUNDATION IN 2017

Activities for Cancer Control:

POFFCH&RI Research Activities:

Hospital Activities:

Programs of POFF up to June 2017 :

International Cancer Congress and Health Fair-2017:

World Cancer day :

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Membership of Global Cancer Institute:

World No Tobacco Day:

Observance of National Mourn Day-2017:

Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2017:

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Cancer Answer Programmes:

Other activities:

ACTIVITIES OF PROFESSOR DR. OBAYEDULLAH-FERDOUSI FOUNDATION IN 2017

Activities for Cancer Control:

POFFCH&RI Research Activities:

Hospital Activities:

Programs of POFF up to June 2017 :

International Cancer Congress and Health Fair-2017:

World Cancer day :

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Membership of Global Cancer Institute:

World No Tobacco Day:

Observance of National Mourn Day-2017:

Observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month October-2017:

Observance of Independence Day 2017 :

Cancer Answer Programmes:

Other activities:

Professor (Dr.) Obayedullah Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital

& Research Institute(POFFCH&RI), Paikkandi, Gopalgonj

( In collaboration with Apollo Gleneagles Hospital-Kolkata)

“International Scientific Seminar & Consultation”

Speakers: Renowned Oncologists, Surgeons, Physicians, Opthalmologists, Gynaecologists, Otolaryngologists from Home and Abroad

Venue: Sheikh Fazilatunnessa Mujib Eye Hospital and Training Institute, Ghonapara, Gopalgonj

Date: 18^th March, 2020 Time: 10.00AM-14.00PM Contact No.01711310534, 01710941199

Discussion Meeting: on“Mujib Shato Barshiki”Time: 10.00AM-12.00PM at POFFCH&RI Campus

Date :Free Consultation: 17^th March, 2020 from 12.00 PM to 7.00PM

On Observance of “100 years Birth Anniversary Of Father of the Nation BangaBandhu Sheikh

Mujibur Rahman” at POFFCH&RI Campus, Paikkandi, Gopalgonj

Contact No. for prior serial: 01314816126, 01745600833, 01912879554.

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Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: When and how to use masks

Can wearing a mask protect you against coronavirus?

Before putting on a mask, clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Cover mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.
Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.
To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of mask); discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.

When and how to wear medical masks to protect against coronavirus?

If you are healthy, you only need to wear a mask if you are taking care of a person with COVID-19.
Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
If you wear a mask, then you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

100 Eminent Citizens Submitted a letter to Honourale PM for Temporary Ban on Tobacco Production & Sale during COVD-19.

Dear ALL,

Greetings of the day.

It is our pleasure to inform you all concerned that recently 100 dignitaries on behalf of different anti-tobacco organizations like Bangladesh cancer Society, United Forum Against Tobacco(UFAT), Bangladesh Network For NCD Control & Prevention( BNNCP), National Heart Foundation, Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital and Resaerch Institute(POFFCH&RI), Dhaka Ahsania Mission, Aid Foundation, Bangladesh Anti-Tobacco Alliance, PROGGA, TABINAJ, WBB Trust and Anti-Tobacco Media Alliance (ATMA) and etc signed a letter addressing to the Honourable Prime Minister under the leadership of National Professor Brig.(Rtd.) Dr. Abdul Malik, Chairman, UFAT, BNCCP and National Heart Foundation for a temporary ban on tobacco production, marketing and sale during the present COVID-19 Pandomic Catastrophe.

This news has published in many reputed print medias and other media outlets (about 75 reports) like Dhaka Tribune, Business Standard, Bangladesh Post, UNB, Daily Industry, bdnews24.com, Somoy News, Businessnews24.com, Saradinnews and etc.

Please find out the attached file for your convenience.

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.1)

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, was first detected as a respiratory illness in December 2019 in Wuhan City, China. Since detection, the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has impacted every aspect of our lives worldwide. On March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was categorized as a pandemic when over 118,000 cases were diagnosed globally. As of April 1, 2020, the number of confirmed cases increased to 932,605 with 46,809 deaths. The first confirmed case in the United States was reported on January 20, 2020, in Snohomish County, Washington. At a time when terms such as social distancing and flattening the curve have become a part of our vernacular, it is essential that we understand what measures can be implemented to protect patients and healthcare workers. China, Italy, and Spain have reported that 3.8% to 10% of confirmed COVID-19–positive cases were healthcare workers. Undoubtedly, healthcare providers have had to rapidly alter care delivery models while simultaneously acknowledging the crucial unknowns of how these changes may affect clinical outcomes. In this special feature, we review strategies for mitigating transmission of COVID-19 in an effort to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the disease for patients with cancer without infection, for patients with cancer with COVID-19 infection, and for the healthcare workers caring for them, while continuing to provide the best possible cancer care.

Patient Safety

Reports from the Chinese experience have shown that patients with cancer may have an increased risk of contracting and developing complications from COVID-19. A retrospective study of 1,524 patients with cancer, half of whom were not on active therapy, showed a higher risk of COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR], 2.31; 95% CI, 1.89–3.02) compared with the community. This risk was small and was likely due to frequent visits to the hospital for treatment. In a prospective cohort study of 1,590 COVID-19 cases, 18 (1%) patients had a history of cancer, with lung cancer most frequently reported. Patients with cancer were more likely to experience clinically severe events, defined as treatment in an intensive care unit or death, compared with those without cancer (39% vs 8%; P=.0003). Additionally, those who underwent chemotherapy or surgery in the past month had a greater risk of experiencing clinically severe events, compared with those with cancer who had not received recent treatment (OR, 5.34; 95% CI, 1.80–16.18; P=.0026). The risk also appears to be higher in patients with >1 chronic medical condition. Even with the intrinsic limitations of these studies, they highlight the importance of protecting our patients with cancer who are at an increased risk of serious COVID-19 at any age^.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.2)

Prescreening and Screening Approaches

In an effort to control the community spread of the virus, social distancing has been recommended globally. To help support this effort, healthcare facilities have implemented interventions to prescreen and screen their patients for symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 infection. In many cancer centers, prescreening is performed via phone or digital applications 1 or 2 days before the patient’s upcoming visit. These screenings evaluate for symptoms such as a new or worsening cough within the past 14 days, shortness of breath, muscle aches, or fever and may also include assessment of exposure risk, including travel history or exposure to a COVID-19–positive individual. If any concerning symptoms are reported, these are further clarified to determine whether patients need to be evaluated, monitored at home, or referred to the emergency department (ED).A unique challenge in the cancer population is that many patients undergoing cytoreductive therapy, and especially those with lung disease, may experience similar symptoms as a consequence of treatment or due to their underlying disease process. Therefore, it is important to ensure that patients are appropriately assessed for other potential etiologies, including other infections (eg, blood cultures in the management of patients with neutropenic fever).

If patients have mild symptoms, they are encouraged to stay at home with close monitoring. If possible, evaluation via telehealth should be coordinated to decrease the risk of potential exposure to other patients and staff. Many institutions have also established screening clinics that are separated from other clinical areas to reduce the risk of exposure to asymptomatic patients with cancer who are seeking care. These screening clinics allow for dedicated staff to evaluate and potentially test symptomatic patients for SARS-CoV-2. Some cancer centers have also created off-site testing locations, including drive-throughs, which allow for efficient testing of symptomatic patients without increasing exposure risk. If patients are unstable and are referred to the ED, it is recommended that a separate area within or outside the ED is designated for vulnerable populations, including patients with cancer. The ability to erect these clinics depends on the availability of rapid testing capabilities, supply of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and space, which is limited in areas already seeing a surge of COVID-19 cases.

If symptomatic patients present to the cancer center for treatment after a negative prescreening assessment, they must be provided with a mask and directed to a screening clinic for evaluation and potential testing before moving forward with any cancer-directed therapy. Cancer centers should develop strategies for the management of these symptomatic patients, including rescheduling of nonessential visits. Thus, it is important that cancer centers determine what constitutes an “essential visit” and develop infection prevention guidance to ensure appropriate management of such patients should they require an in-person visit. Although nonessential visits and therapy should be curtailed, there will continue to be a requirement for life saving and life prolonging interventions in COVID-19–positive patients. For patients who are symptomatic or have tested positive for COVID-19, some cancer centers have established cohorted treatment areas. Grouping this population enables necessary and clinically appropriate therapy to continue, at the physician’s discretion, with lower risk of exposure to others. In addition, patients who are COVID-19 positive or under evaluation for COVID-19 may receive their care in designated units when they are admitted to the hospital.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.3)

Caregivers

Because patients with cancer who are receiving therapy are considered to be a high-risk population, their exposure should be limited to their own family and cohabiters. Data suggest that confirmed cases of COVID-19 have had close contact with other symptomatic cases.⁹ Therefore, if the patients have a caregiver who may be exhibiting symptoms, it is essential that the caregiver socially distance themselves, immediately seek care, and potentially receive testing for COVID-19. It is important to educate caregivers that while they may not themselves be at a high-risk for complications from COVID-19, their close relationship with a patient with active cancer can put the patient at risk. As an extension of this concept, many if not all cancer centers have implemented limited or no visitor policies with exceptions for patients with disabilities or for those at the end of life. In an effort to include caregiver support during patient visits and treatments, telephone or video communication with caregivers should be accommodated. Cancer center policies can be communicated to patients and visitors via letters, emails, and at phone screening to set appropriate expectations.

Telemedicine

A retrospective study of patients with cancer in China showed that recurrent hospital visits and admissions were potential risk factors for COVID-19. As this information supports the tenet of social distancing, many institutions have expanded their telemedicine programs to allow for transition of in-person visits to telephone encounters or video visits. With broadened access criteria from CMS for telehealth, remote visits via video allow for both follow-up visits for established patients and initial consultations for new patients. Support services, such as palliative care, dietitian services, and psycho-oncology, can also be delivered via telemedicine to continue providing comprehensive cancer care.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.4)

Changes in Cancer Care

Because many institutions are required to limit elective procedures and surgeries, a multidisciplinary discussion should occur in planning the optimal treatment course for any patient. Patients who require diagnostic biopsies via aerosol-producing procedures, such as endoscopies, endoscopic ultrasounds, or bronchoscopies may undergo CT-guided biopsies if possible. Molecular testing and liquid biopsies may also be weighed for some circumstances, with the caveat that some of these techniques are still being validated. For patients being considered for systemic therapy for cancer or who need to continue treatment, several strategies can be used. If possible, systemic therapy can be administered with alternative dosing schedules to allow the patient to have fewer in-person visits. For infusional therapies that have equivalent oral formulation, changing to oral oncolytics can also be considered to reduce the frequency of in-person visits. For patients on continuous infusions or those who require growth factor support, protocols that allow for pump disconnect or administration of growth factors at home may be implemented. Some therapies can also be administered at home through home care nurses, including luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists for patients with prostate or breast cancer. Although no significant data are available to suggest an inpatient hospitalization is higher risk than recurrent outpatient visits, given probable near-term inpatient bed demand, an NCCN toolkit is available to assist in shifting traditionally inpatient chemotherapy regimens into the outpatient setting, primarily for patients with hematologic malignancies. Patients whose treatment plan includes radiation therapy may be evaluated for short-course radiation therapy or hypofractionated radiation therapy if this is an appropriate alternative. If restaging scans are routinely obtained to evaluate treatment response, increased time interval between scans or the use of biochemical markers in lieu of scans can be considered.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.5)

Hematologic Malignancies and Stem Cell Transplant Considerations

Similar to the considerations for solid tumor malignancies, the care of patients with hematologic malignancies is focused on delivering only the essential elements necessary to achieve high quality care. Unique to the malignant hematology population are prolonged hospitalizations for induction chemotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Given that these are life threatening conditions and chemotherapy can be curative, it is not recommended that these therapies be delayed or seen as elective. However, asymptomatic patients who will receive chemotherapy that results in significant and prolonged immunosuppression should be considered for COVID-19 testing before therapy is started. Impending blood product shortages will require strict adherence to guidelines for single unit red cell transfusions in patients with a hemoglobin of <7 g/dL and platelet transfusions for values <10,000 K/uL.

Also unique to this population is the use of autologous or allogeneic stem cell transplant. Recommendations for proceeding with transplantation in the setting of limited hospital resources, blood product shortages, and donor stem cell procurement challenges, have resulted in thoughtful consideration of which disease indications require urgent transplant.

However, even in patients whose disease warrants immediate action, processes in obtaining donor stem cells have been modified. Due to global transmission and spread of COVID-19 and associated travel restrictions, the National Marrow Donor Program requires all transplant centers to receive and cryopreserve unrelated donor products before starting recipient-conditioning chemotherapy. Additionally, because many centers have limited nonemergent surgical procedures, peripheral blood mobilized stem cell products are preferred over bone marrow grafts requiring surgical harvest, except in circumstances where data supports improved survival with the use of bone marrow graft over peripheral blood graft.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.6)

Care of the Oncology Patient with Covid-19

No clear guidelines exist regarding when a patient with cancer who has tested positive for COVID-19 can resume therapy. At the time of writing, CDC has recommended a test-based strategy for immunocompromised patients that involves 2 consecutive negative nasopharyngeal swabs collected ≥24 hours apart and resolution of fever and respiratory symptoms^.(However, CDC also notes that “testing guidance is based upon limited information and is subject to change as more information becomes available.) This is the preferred approach among centers with access to testing. Non-test based strategy would include at least 3 days since resolution of symptoms and at least 7 days since symptoms first appeared. The latter strategy leaves many questions unanswered, including the length of viral shedding and the timeline for when PPE can be safely discontinued.

In addition, there are patients with cancer with COVID-19 who may need to continue their therapy, such as those receiving radiation therapy for whom treatment interruption may diminish the local control benefit of therapy. The care of these patients must be managed carefully, with prior coordination between environmental services, treating team, and operational unit to allow for a controlled and safe environment for all the patients. COVID-19–positive patients should wear a mask and be treated in a separate area from other patients, and their visits may be temporally separated from other patients’ appointments. Minimal staff members should be involved in the treatment day, always with appropriate PPE. The treatment area should be cleaned and disinfected per the COVID-19 guidelines available by the United States Environmental Protection Agency^.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.7)

Healthcare Worker Safety

As the front-line caregivers for patients with COVID-19, healthcare workers are considered a high-risk population. Approximately 3.8% to 10% of the confirmed COVID-19 positive cases in China, Italy, and Spain were healthcare workers. The optimal approach to protecting healthcare workers in the face of a worldwide shortage of PPE has been addressed by public health agencies, with some nuanced differences in approach. The World Health Organization recommends contact and droplet precautions (including eye protection) for the management of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases. As of April 1, 2020, CDC recommends use of an N95 or higher respirator, but use of a facemask is an acceptable alternative (if respirator is unavailable) when providing routine care to patients with known or suspected COVID-19. The PPE approach for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases may vary at each institution based on guidance from local public health jurisdiction and supply.

When performing aerosol-generating procedures on patients with confirmed or suspected COVID-19, airborne (using N95 or higher respirator), contact, and droplet precautions (including eye protection) are recommended.

The WHO recommends strategies to maximize PPE use to protect healthcare workers while minimizing the need for PPE in several ways, including the following: (1) use of telemedicine for initial evaluation, (2) only essential healthcare workers entering patient rooms, and (3) bundling activities to minimize the number of times a room is entered. Screening clinics not only provide a dedicated area for evaluation of patients with potential COVID-19, but also allow for PPE conservation by staff. The FDA has approved Emergency Use Authorization for the Battelle CCDS Critical Care Decontamination System for decontamination of compatible N95 or N95-equivalent respirators, which may assist with N95 shortages in areas where this technology is available^.

Recently, CDC has developed a PPE burn rate calculator for healthcare facilities to “plan and optimize the use of PPE for response to COVID-19." A much-discussed topic in the midst of PPE shortage has been whether universal or extended use of surgical masks in the clinical setting should be recommended. Although CDC has not released guidance on this issue for healthcare settings, on April 3, 2020, it recommended use of cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Many cancer centers have already adopted this policy due to the difficulty in sustaining a healthy distance of 6 feet in clinical care settings. If such an approach is implemented, it is important to carefully consider the implications on PPE supply and develop mitigation strategies.

In addition to PPE use, several other measures can protect healthcare workers, including the early adoption of travel restrictions, arranging meetings over teleconference, and establishing clear guidelines on when to stay at home and when to return to work. Healthcare workers with any concerning symptoms or exposure history should self-isolate and not report to work. Establishing screening tools, daily questionnaires, and/or temperature checks to assess symptomatic healthcare workers decreases the risk of exposure from potentially COVID-19–positive individuals. Institutions should develop COVID-19 hotlines in collaboration with occupational health services to triage symptomatic healthcare workers to screening clinics for rapid testing. If a healthcare worker is exposed to a COVID-19 positive patient without appropriate protection, they should contact the occupational health office of their institution for guidance on local policy. Investigation of exposure history should also be performed by occupational health to identify any other individuals who may be at risk. Healthcare workers who are unable to present to clinical areas due to mild symptoms can be encouraged to participate in telemedicine activities to assist in the management of patients who have respiratory symptoms. When possible, telecommuting for all employees should be encouraged with limited on-site staff who may rotate on a daily basis to reduce their exposure risk. A systematic rotating staff team system may also enable streamlined tracing of contacts, if the employee becomes COVID-19 positive. Institutions participating in telecommuting should make “remote work tools” available to their employees to make telecommuting effective.

For healthcare providers who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19, it is important to adhere to stay at home and return to work guidelines. There are test-based and non-test based strategies to clear them to return to work^.

Test-based strategy includes “at least 2 consecutive nasopharyngeal swab specimens collected ≥24 hours apart for SARS-CoV-2 PCR (total of 2 negative specimens) and resolution of fever without the use of medications and improvement of respiratory symptoms.”
Non-test based strategy includes returning to work “at least 3 days following resolution of fever without the use of medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms and at least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.”

At times of surge, it is likely that these guidelines will have to be revisited to allow for adequate workforce support on the front lines while still prioritizing the safety of patients and healthcare workers. The FDA approved the first antibody test for SARS-CoV-2 on April 2, 2020; as serologic tests become available, they will have important implications in helping to identify an immune workforce to care for COVID-19 patients.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.8)

Wellness Resources

Front-line healthcare workers in China managing patients with COVID-19 reported anxiety (50.4%), insomnia (34%), and distress (71.5%). Because of concerns regarding shortages of PPE, increased risk of infections for self, family, and patients, it is important for healthcare workers to have the resources to assist with wellness and mental health. As we encourage social distancing, it is important that it not lead to social isolation. NCCN recently published guidance for self-care and stress management for oncology healthcare professionals. Recommendations include taking brief breaks during shifts and enjoying what brings one joy. A balanced diet, regular activity, and adequate sleep are also important. Consultation with a mental health provider or availability of virtual visits for meditation and crisis intervention teams may also provide some comfort during this challenging time.

Similar support services can also be useful for patients who may be experiencing an emotional toll of delaying care, the risk of COVID-19 exposure on their health, and keeping abreast of rapid shifts in how their care is delivered. Cancer centers have adapted practice by leveraging virtual technology to continue offering online support groups, telehealth for psychotherapy, and expanding a digital footprint for educational and experiential programming. However, the full breadth of supportive services may be diminished. The role of palliative care services via telemedicine has also been shown to provide patients with additional support at home and can be used to address symptoms and end of life issues during the pandemic. NCCN’s self-care guide for patients can be an important resource as patients navigate their emotions at this time^.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

Safety at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: How to Keep our Oncology Patients and Healthcare Workers Safe ( Page No.9)

Communication with Patients and Healthcare Workers Regarding Safety

Keeping all of the healthcare team members, caregivers, and patients informed during a rapidly evolving situation such as COVID-19 should be a primary focus of leadership. Regular meetings via daily huddles as well as email communications with real-time updates that are pertinent and meaningful will provide some reassurance in a time of uncertainty. Weekly or biweekly townhall meetings may also provide a venue to address questions and inform the cancer center community regarding updates and challenges. Regularly updated internal websites with guidelines and policies regarding COVID-19 and information on wellness, childcare, PPE, workflows, and clinical algorithms will be an invaluable resource for healthcare workers. Developing and distributing a document with frequently asked questions will also provide patients and their families with a sense of ease.

Conclusions

At a time of crisis, the prime foci for every institution are protecting the well-being of patients and healthcare workers while continuing to provide a nurturing and safe environment to work and care for patients. Although various measures can be implemented in providing the best possible cancer care in a safe manner, it is important to acknowledge the rapidly evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainties that come with it. The distressing global experience with COVID-19 limited and in some cases devastated the healthcare delivery systems we have relied on to provide safe and effective care to our patients. Nonetheless, our healthcare community remains dedicated, resilient, and adaptable. Most of all, the commitment we have to the patients we serve will continue to guide our response during these extraordinarily challenging times. With careful evaluation and modification of our approach, we can continue to provide our patients with effective and compassionate care without sacrificing the health and safety of our teams, colleagues, and families.

Courtesy:

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute,

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

www.poffoundation.org,info@poffoundation.org, obayedullahbaki@gmail.com

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