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

Religious leaders play key role in battle against COVID-19

Imams reach millions of Bangladeshis through mosque megaphones, bringing life-saving information to families that do not have a smartphone or TV

UNICEF/BANA-2012/ Tasni

20 May 2020

Religious leaders throughout Bangladesh – including in the Rohingya refugee camps – have agreed to play a key role in the battle against the COVID-19 virus.

Mosque megaphones are traditionally used by imams to call the faithful to prayer. But they now serve an extra purpose: to disseminate key public health messages.

“Imams are expert communicators,” says Sheikh Masudur Rahman, UNICEF Communication for Development Specialist. “Their messages are listened to, both in the mosques when they deliver sermons, and when they use mosque megaphones. Once imams are supplied with key COVID-19 messages, they can tailor them in the best format for their communities.”

Imams play an important role in Bangladesh because they hold the trust of millions of worshipers in what is a predominantly Muslim country. UNICEF and the Islamic Foundation Bangladesh (IFB) – a government organization that works under the Ministry of Religious Affairs – have worked together for the wellbeing of women and children since 2017.

UNICEF/BANA-2020/Parvez

Information in rural and hand-to-reach areas

About 500,000 Imams and religious leaders are now disseminating information about COVID-19 nationwide. They help spread key messages focusing on hygiene and infection prevention, including handwashing using soap, social distancing, and how to benefit from the Koran when in lockdown at home.

In Bangladesh, a significant number of people in rural and hard-to-reach areas do not have access to radio, television or newspapers, in contrast to urban areas.

“It is in these less accessible places where the mosque megaphone – usually used by imams five times a day for the call to prayer – can play a critically important role. People listen to them and they are an amazingly effective way of spreading public information messages,” Mr Rahman said.

Dispelling rumours in Rohingya refugee camps

Although there have been only two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Rohingya refugee camps to date, because of fast spreading nature of the virus it is feared that without proper awareness and preparation it can be devastating

More than 850,000 Rohingyas – more than half of them children – live in cramped bamboo and tarpaulin shelters that make up the largest refugee camps in the world. The high population density increases the chances of fast transmission rates, while limited sanitation and health facilities only add to the hardships.

UNICEF Bangladesh/2020/BITA

A religious leader disseminates COVID-19 messages using a megaphone in the Rohingya refugee camps.

UNICEF and its partners have enhanced community awareness activities in the camps so the Rohingya children and their families are better informed about COVID-19 and can take preventative measures.

“Tackling rumours and falsehoods in relation to the virus is a key part of UNICEF’s response in the camps, because such misinformation can have devastating consequences when news and internet-access is restricted,” said Aarunima Bhatnagar, UNICEF Communication for Development Specialist in Cox’s Bazar.

“We imams take this very seriously”

UNICEF and its partner BRAC have trained more than additional 300 religious leaders in the camps, and these are now disseminating prevention messages about COVID-19 in the Rohingya language. They use megaphones and posters to explain COVID-19 and to debunk myths associated with the virus.

“The elderly feel threatened by COVID-19, because they have heard that it mostly affects them and people with health complications,” said Rohingya imam Noor Mohammed. “We are taking community prevention measures against COVID-19 very seriously. I am distributing messages during and after prayers at my mosque, and encouraging others to do the same.’’

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

Pregnant mothers and babies born during COVID-19 pandemic threatened by strained health systems and disruptions in services

With 116 million expected births in the approximately 9 months since the COVID pandemic was recognized, UNICEF calls on governments and donors to maintain lifesaving services for pregnant women and newborns

07 May 2020

DHAKA/NEW YORK, 7 May 2020 – In Bangladesh, an estimated 2.4 million babies will be born under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Globally, the number is 116 million. These babies are projected to be born up to 40 weeks after COVID-19 – currently straining health systems and medical supply chains all over the world – was recognized as a pandemic on March 11. New mothers and newborns will be greeted by harsh realities, UNICEF said, including global containment measures such as lockdowns and curfews; health centres overwhelmed with response efforts; supply and equipment shortages; and a lack of sufficient skilled birth attendants as health workers, including midwives, are redeployed to treat COVID-19 patients. “Millions of mothers all over the world embarked on a journey of parenthood in the world as it was. They now must prepare to bring a life into the world as it has become – a world where expecting mothers are afraid to go to health centres for fear of getting infected, or missing out on emergency care due to strained health services and lockdowns,” said Henrietta Fore, UNICEF Executive Director. “It is hard to imagine how much the coronavirus pandemic has recast motherhood.”Ahead of Mother’s Day, recognized in May in over 128 countries, UNICEF is warning that COVID-19 containment measures can disrupt life-saving health services such as childbirth care, putting millions of pregnant mothers and their babies at great risk. Countries with the expected highest numbers of births for the period of 9 months from the date of the pandemic declaration (11 March) are: India (20.1 million), China (13.5 million), Nigeria (6.4 million), Pakistan (5 million) and Indonesia (4 million). Most of these countries had high neonatal mortality rates even before the pandemic and may see these levels increase with COVID-19 conditions. Even wealthier countries are affected by this crisis. US is the sixth highest country in terms of expected number of births.In Bangladesh, an estimated 2.4 million babies will be born under the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic. The country ranks at number 9 in terms of the highest expected number of births for the period of 9 months from the date of the pandemic declaration on 11 March.Even though there is no significant change in the maternal mortality ratio and neonatal mortality rate, an analysis of data in the Directorate General of Health Services dashboard shows that since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, there is a significant reduction in the uptake of maternal and newborn health services from the health facilities. Only 33 district hospitals in Bangladesh are performing all key functions of emergency obstetric care out of 63. “Despite the pressure on the health system due to COVID-19 situation, routine lifesaving services for the pregnant mothers and newborn babies need to continue with proper infection prevention and control measures. UNICEF is working with the Government of Bangladesh to save lives by ensuring that pregnant mothers and sick newborn babies receive the required care in the months to come,” said Tomoo Hozumi, UNICEF Country Representative in Bangladesh. UNICEF is supporting the Government to maintain maternal, newborn and child health services during the pandemic through guidelines and training for doctors, nurses and midwives in the area of infection prevention and control. This helps prevent the spreading of the virus, and protects health workers and patients. It includes triage (separating COVID-19 patients from non-COVID-19 patients), handwashing and other hygiene measures, and rational use of personal protection equipment.Globally, UNICEF warns that although evidence suggests that pregnant mothers are not more affected by COVID-19 than others, countries need to ensure they still have access to antenatal, delivery and postnatal services. Likewise, sick newborns need emergency services as they are at high risk of death. New families require support to start breastfeeding, and to get medicines, vaccines and nutrition to keep their babies healthy.

On behalf of mothers worldwide, UNICEF is issuing an urgent appeal to governments and health care providers to save lives in the coming months by:

Helping pregnant women to receive antenatal checkups, skilled delivery care, postnatal care services, and care related to COVID-19 as needed;
Ensuring health workers are provided with the necessary personal protective equipment and get priority testing and vaccination once a COVID-19 vaccine becomes available so that they can deliver high quality care to all pregnant women and newborn babies during the pandemic;
Guaranteeing that all infection prevention and control measures are in place in health facilities during childbirth and immediately after;
Allowing health care workers to reach pregnant women and new mothers through home visits, encouraging women living in remote areas to use maternal waiting homes, and by using mobile health strategies for teleconsultations;
Training, protecting and equipping health workers with clean birth kits to attend home births where health facilities are closed;
Allocating resources to lifesaving services and supplies for maternal and child health.

While it is not yet known whether the virus is transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy and delivery, UNICEF recommends that all pregnant women:

Follow precautions to protect themselves from exposure to the virus, closely monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19 and seek advice from the nearest designated facility if they have concerns or experience symptoms;
Take the same precautions to avoid COVID -19 infection as other people: practice physical distancing, avoid physical gatherings and use online health services;

Seek medical care early in if they live in affected or at-risk areas and have fever, cough or difficulty breathing;
Continue breastfeeding their baby even if they are infected or suspect being infected as the virus has not been found in samples of breastmilk. Mothers with COVID-19 should wear a mask when feeding their baby; wash hands before and after touching the baby; and routinely clean and disinfect surfaces;
Continue to hold the newborn and perform skin-to-skin care;
Ask their midwife or doctor where they feel is the safest place to give birth and have a birth plan in place to reduce anxiety and to ensure they get to the place on time;
Continue medical support, including routine immunizations, after the baby is born.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, an estimated 2.8 million pregnant women and newborns died every year, or 1 every 11 seconds, mostly of preventable causes. UNICEF calls for immediate investment in health workers with the right training, who are equipped with the right medicines and protective measures to ensure every mother and newborn is cared for by a safe pair of hands to prevent and treat complications during pregnancy, delivery and birth.

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

World No Tobacco Day-2020 Is Very Near To Hand, Tomorrow On 31st May. But The Human Enemy Corona Pandemic Has Made the Whole World Cripple To Celebrate This Day In Out In Befitting Manner. So Bangladesh Cancer Society and Professor Dr. Obayedullah - Foundation Cancer Hospital And Research Institute Have Decided to Observe This Day In Various In Home Programme Through Online and Social Media like Virtual Presentations, Messages, Articles, Banners, Posters And Also Publish Articles in Print Media In Accordance with the Guidelines OF WHO And National Tobacco Cell of Ministry Of Health And Family Welfare .

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সুতরাং প্রত্যক্ষ বা পরোক্ষভাবে তামাকের ক্ষতির শিকার প্রায় অর্ধেক প্রাপ্তবয়স্ক জনগোষ্ঠী বর্তমানে মারাত্মকভাবে করোনা ভাইরাসের সংক্রমণ ঝুঁকির মধ্যে রয়েছে। এধরনের রোগীর চিকিৎসায় অনেক সময় কৃত্রিম শ্বাসপ্রশ্বাস (AvBwmBD) ব্যবস্থার দরকার হয়, যা আমাদের হাসপাতালগুলোতে প্রয়োজনের তুলনায় কম রয়েছে।বর্তমানে দেশে করোনাভাইরাস সংক্রমণ ক্রমবর্ধমান হারে বৃদ্ধি পাচ্ছে, এই সংকট মোকাবিলায় মাননীয় প্রধানমন্ত্রীর ঘোষিত বিভিন্ন পদক্ষেপ এবং নির্দেশনা দেশ-বিদেশে প্রশংসিত হয়েছে এবং সর্বস্তরের মানুষের মধ্যে ব্যাপক আশার সঞ্চার করেছে। পরিস্থিতি মোকাবেলায় সরকার ঘোষিত jK WvDb 26‡k gvP© †_‡K 30‡k †g ch©šÍ ewa©Z nIqvq RbMb‡K evox‡Z Ae¯’vb Kivi Rb¨ DrmvwnZ K‡i‡Q|

ZvB `ytL fivµvšÍ gb wb‡q AvR ej‡Z PvB, ZvgvK †Kvb wbZ¨ cÖ‡qvRbxq cY¨ bq| Pvj, Wvj, ˆZj, mvev‡bi g‡Zv †Kvb cY¨ bq| Zvn‡j †Kb †hLv‡b evsjv‡`‡ki mKj Kj KviLvbv, d¨v±vix eÜ ivLvi wb‡`©k †`qv n‡q‡Q †mLv‡b ZvgvK †Kv¤úvbx¸‡jv Zvi Drcv`b Pvwj‡q hv‡”Q Ges wewfbœ wewµi ¯’v‡b mieivn K‡i hv‡”Q| অধিকন্তু, কোভিড-১৯ প্রতিরোধের লক্ষ্যে এই জরুরী অবস্থা চলাকালীন যেসব পরিষেবা অব্যvহত থাকবে তার তালিকাসহ প্রধানমন্ত্রীর কার্যালয় হতে BwZg‡a¨ একটি পরিপত্র জারি করা হয়েছে যার মধ্যে তামাকজাত দ্রব্য অন্তর্ভুË নয়। তথাপি এ সকল দ্রব্যের উৎপাদন,বিপণন I weµq কার্যক্রম অব্যাহত রয়েছে যা এই মুহূর্তে জনস্বাস্থ্য সুরক্ষায় মারাত্মক হুমকি হয়ে দাঁড়িয়েছে।তামাকের মারাত্মক স্বাস্থ্যক্ষতি উপলব্ধি করেই RvwZiRbK e½eÜz †kL gywReyi ingv‡bi my‡hvM¨ Kb¨v, gv`vi Ae w` wnDg¨vwbwU, evievi wbe©vwPZ cÖavbgš¿x Rb‡bÎx †kL nvwmbv ২০৪০ সালের মধ্যে তামাকমুক্ত বাংলাদেশ গড়ার প্রত্যয় ব্যক্ত করেছেন।GQvov, Rbm¦v¯’¨ myiÿvq evsjv‡`‡k †KvwfW-19 gnvgvix PjvKvjxb mvgwqKfv‡e ZvgvKRvZ cY¨ ‰Zix, wecbb I weµq wbwl× Kivi wbwg‡Ë evjv‡`‡ki 100 Rb wewkó e¨w³eM© MZ 7B †g, 2020 Zvwi‡L gvbbxq cÖavbgš¿xi Kv‡Q GKwU Av‡e`b Rgv w`‡q‡Qb|

ZvB K‡ivbvi G `ytmg‡q a~gcvb I ZvgvK e¨envi eÜ Ki‡Z n‡e| DbœZ we‡k¦i I wek¦ ¯^v¯’¨ ms¯’vi Z_¨ DcvË g‡Z করোনাভাইরাসে আক্রান্তদের মধ্যে ধূমপায়ীদের মারাত্মকভাবে অসুস্থ হওয়ার সম্ভাবনা ১৪ গুণ বেশি Ges 50wUiI †ekx gvivZK SuywKc~b© †ivMx‡`i SuywK AviI evwo‡q †`q| GQvov, Av‡gwiKvi M‡elKiv ej‡Qb G Kiæb Ae¯’v AviI `y&B wKsev †ekx eQi ¯’vqx n‡Z cv‡i ïay ZvB bq c„w_exi cÖvq 70% kZvsk gvbyl G gnvgvixi Ke‡j co‡Z cv‡i| এই সতর্কতা আমলে নিয়ে ভারত, দক্ষিণ আফ্রিকা এবং বতসোয়ানা ইতোমধ্যে করোনাভাইরাস সংকট মোকাবিলায় তামাকRvZ পণ্য বিক্রয়ের উপর সাময়িক নিষেধাজ্ঞা আরোপ করেছে।

এমতাবস্থায়, দেশে কোভিড-১৯ সংক্রমণ নিয়ন্ত্রণ এবং জনস্বাস্থ্য সুরক্ষা নিশ্চিতK‡í ভারতসহ বিভিন্ন দেশের অভিজ্ঞতা কাজে লাগিয়ে সিগারেট, বিড়ি, জর্দা, গুলসহ সকল তামাকজাত পণ্য Drcv`b, বিপণন ও বিক্রয় নিষিদ্ধ করার জন্য cÖ‡dmi Wvt Iev‡q`yjøvn-‡d‡i‡`ŠmŠ dvD‡Ûkb K¨vÝvi nm&wcUvj GÛ wimvP© BbwówUDU, †MvcvjMÄ; evsjv‡`k K¨vÝvi †mvmvBwU, b¨vkbvj nv&U© dvD‡Ûkb, ZvgvK we‡ivax †RvU mn wewfbœ msMVb সম্মিলিতভাবে gvbbxq cÖavbgš¿xi Kv‡Q বিনীত অনুরোধ জানাচ্ছি K‡ivbvi fqvenZv K_v wPšÍv K‡i wZwb †hb Awej‡¤^ ZvgvK I ZvgvKRvZ `ªe¨ Drcv`b, wecbb I wewµi Dci K‡Vvi wewa wb†la Av‡ivc K‡ib । চলমান মহামারী মোকাবিলা, দেশের জনস্বাস্থ্য উন্নয়ন এবং ২০৪০ সালের মধ্যে তামাকমুক্ত বাংলাদেশ অর্জনে আপনার এই পদক্ষেপ বলিষ্ঠ অবদান রাখবে বলে আমরা বিশ্বাস করি।

AvR 31 †k †g wek¦ ZvgvKgy³ w`em| eive‡ii gZ ¯^v¯’¨ I cwievi Kj¨vb gš¿bvjq RvZxq ZvgvK wbqš¿Y †mj, ZvgvK wbqš¿Y AvBb ev¯Íevq‡b MwVZ †Rjv I Dc‡Rjv ch©v‡qi Uv¯‹‡dvm© KwgwU Ges evsjv‡`k K¨vÝvi ‡mvmvBwU I cÖ‡dmi Wvt Iev‡q`yjøvn- †di‡`Šmx dvD‡Ûkb K¨vÝvi nmwcUvj GÛ wimvm© BbwówUDU mn wewfbœ miKvwi I †emiKvwi msMV‡bi D‡`¨v‡M mviv †`‡k 31†k †g wek¦ ZvgvKgy³ w`em cvj‡bi me©vZ¥K cÖ¯‘wZ MÖnb K‡i wKš‘ Gev‡ii †cÖÿvcU wfbœ| Avcbviv Rv‡bb, RvwZiRbK e½eÜz †kL gywReyi ingv‡bi my‡hvN¨ Zbqv evievi wbe©vwPZ mdj cÖavbgš¿x MbZ‡š¿i gvbmKb¨v Rb‡bÎx †kL nvwmbv 2016 mv‡j XvKvq AbywôZ mvD_ Gwkqvb w¯úKvi mvwg‡U evsjv‡`k‡K 2040 mv‡ji g‡a¨ ZvgvKgy³ Kivi AwfcÖvq e¨³ K‡ib| ZvgvK wbqš¿Y eZ©gvb miKv‡ii wbe©vPbx A½xKvi| Rb¯^v¯’¨ I A_©bxwZi Rb¨ ¶wZKi ZvgvK e¨envi wbqš¿‡Y miKvi e× cwiKi| ZvB, ¯^v¯’¨ I cwievi gš¿bvj‡qi RvZxq ZvgvK wbqš¿Y †mj I wek¦ ¯^v¯’¨ ms¯’vi MvBW jvBb †gvZv‡eK K‡ivbvi G gnvgvwii cÖv°v‡j Gev‡ii wek¦ ZvgvKgy³ w`em cvjb n‡e e¨wZµg ag©x| N‡ivqv cwi‡e‡k webnir, online, virtual dialogue, social medias, banner, poster BZvw`i g‡a¨ Gev‡ii 31 †k †g wek¦ ZvgvKgy³ w`em cvjb mxgve× _vK‡e| ˆewk¦K G gnv wech©v‡qi nvZ †_‡K evuP‡Z n‡j mevi mw¤§wjZ cÖqvm I cÖ‡Póv Ab¯^xKvh©¨ I Acwinvh©¨|

a~gcvb I ZvgvKRvZ `ªe¨ cwiZ¨vM Kiæb, K‡ivbv gnvgvwi †_‡K `~‡i _vKzb I my¯’¨ _vKzb|

N‡i _vKyb, wb‡Ri myiÿv Kiæb, wb‡R euvPzb, Ab¨‡K euvP‡Z w`b, weRq Avgv‡`i mywbwðZ|

Aa¨vcK Wvt †gvjøv Iev‡q`yjøvn evKx

mfvcwZ, evsjv‡`k K¨vÝvi †mvmvBwU;

e¨e¯’vcbv cwiPvjK I wbe©vnx cÖavb

cÖ‡dmi Wvt Iev‡q`yjøvn - †di‡`ŠmŠ dvD‡Ûkb K¨vÝvi nmwcUvj

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

INVITATION TO ATTEND A WEBINAR ON BREAST CANCER:

The COVID-19 is creating a status of unprecedent uncertainty also by disrupting the continuity and quality of care in other disease areas such as cancer. While measures to contain the disease are necessary, it is important not to forget of the needs of the cancer community and the challenges that those patients are encountering during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The disruption of treatments and follow up, the higher risk of complications, the isolation and loneliness, all increase the burden of distress that breast cancer patients already experience due to their condition and raise questions that most of the time remain unanswered.

To provide support to breast cancer patients, with a special focus on advanced/metastatic breast cancer patients, the ABC Global Alliance has brought together a multidisciplinary panel of experts who will answer questions posed by patients themselves during the webinar COVID-19 AND BREAST CANCER: ASK THE EXPERTS that will take place on 8 June 2020 from 13:00 until 14:30 CEST and Bangladesh Time at 18.00 PM to 19.30 PM. Also Online Global Breast Cancer Tumour Board will be held on 8th June 2020 at 20.00 PM.

Being a prestigious member of Advanced Breast Cancer (ABC) Alliance, and Global Cancer Institute,Boston,USA, Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute (POFFCH&RI) is cordially inviting doctors and cancer patients concerned to attend the said very helpful and useful webinar at POFFCH&RI's Dhaka Out-let , 413/1, South Paikpara, Lake View Road, Mirpur, Dhaka-1216. Please confirm your presence at cell No. 01711310534, 01759154546.

Kind Regards,

Prof. Mollah Obayedullah Baki

MD & CEO

Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital &

Research Institute And

President, Bangaladesh Cancer Society.

ESMO management and treatment adapted recommendations in the COVID-19 era: Prostate cancer

Cancer patient prioritisation

Priorities for prostate cancer patients

Outpatient visit priorities

High Priority

First visits of symptomatic patients or patients with high-burden/high-volume metastatic disease who are likely to have rapid progression resulting in symptoms and/or complications (spinal cord compression, bleeding, acute urine retention, hydronephrosis)
New patients with metastatic aggressive variant and small-cell prostate cancer
Patients with severe side effects of ongoing systemic treatment or symptoms that cannot be managed via telephone consulting

Medium Priority

Initiation of systemic treatment in asymptomatic patients with low-volume metastatic disease
Asymptomatic patients with suspicious or proven local/systemic relapse on imaging

Low Priority

Patients under ADT and other AR-targeted agents with a long stable course of disease (refer to telemedicine/telephone visit) or patients under active surveillance

Priorities for imaging

High Priority

Any acute symptoms (neurological, bleeding, fracture, thrombosis, pulmonary emboli), that need urgent imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound)

Medium Priority

Any imaging that serves to make necessary treatment changes or decisions and has an impact on disease management and outcome

Low Priority

Imaging for monitoring in clinically stable patients

Priorities for surgical oncology

See guidelines of the European Association of Urology (EAU) on “Considerations in the triage of urologic surgeries during the Covid-19 pandemic”

Priorities for radiation oncology

High Priority

Hypofractionated or extreme hypofractionated RT for symptomatic lesions (e.g. bone metastasis)

Medium Priority

Low Priority

Generally, extend neoadjuvant ADT as required until RT can be given
- Intermediate risk or high risk
- Hypofractionated RT
- Pelvic lymphatic drainage RT: only if nodal involvement
- Salvage setting

Priorities for medical oncology – advanced disease (systemic treatment: chemotherapy and AR-targeted agents)

High Priority

Initiation of ADT in progressive, symptomatic locally advanced or metastatic HSPC
First-line treatment for symptomatic metastatic CRPC in addition to ADT, where postponing treatment initiation is most likely to have an impact on overall survival and outcome
Chemotherapy (docetaxel or cabazitaxel) in rapid progressing/symptomatic patients not sensitive to AR-targeted agents, likely to respond and to have symptoms controlled. Prophylactic G-CSF support is recommended with chemotherapy

Medium Priority

Adding an AR-targeted agent to ADT in metastatic HSPC (can be postponed to latest possible timepoint as defined in pivotal trials)
Slowly progressing first-line castration-resistant metastatic/recurrent disease
AR-targeted agents in non-metastatic CRPC

Low Priority

Treatment change or initiation of systemic treatment in later lines of metastatic disease in low-burden, asymptomatic patients with rising PSA or minimal progression on imaging

General comment:

ADT has a low frequency of application and is therefore much easier to apply than chemotherapy with less relevant potential side effects concerning the COVID-19 disease, so there is rarely a situation where it cannot be given
Prefer AR-targeted agents over chemotherapy in metastatic HSPC and metastatic CRPC whenever possible, consider home delivery if feasible
Minimising the number of chemotherapy cycles or prolonging cycle length may be justified
Reduce steroids as concomitant treatment if possible

List of abbreviations: ADT, androgen deprivation therapy; AR, androgen receptor; COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-related disease; CRPC, castration-resistant prostate cancer; CT, computed tomography; G-CSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor; HSPC, hormone-sensitive prostate cancer; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; PSA, prostate-specific antigen; RT, radiotherapy.

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

Dear All,

POFFOUNDATION CANCER HOSPITAL is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: করোনা মহামারীর ভূত,বর্তমান ও ভবিষ্যত- বাংলাদেশ প্রেক্ষিত : POFFOUNDATION CANCER HOSPITAL's Zoom Meeting
Time: Jul 3, 2020 08:00 PM Astana, Dhaka

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/5496732990?pwd=SzJ5QktOQnY1RWtWSGxxWE0xREQxQT09

Meeting ID: 549 673 2990
Password: 7EA5pu

Best regards,

Prof. Mollah Obayedullah Baki

(MD, DMRT)

Professor of Radiotherapy and Director

National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital.
Bangladesh.

President

Bangladesh Cancer Society.

Secretary General

Muktijoddha Chikitsok Porishod

Vice-president

Genomic Institute of Health Technology

Genomic Medical Assistant Training School

Founder and President

Obayedullah- Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital and Research Institute

Fatema Rahman Cancer Hospital and Research Institute

Vice-president

Bangladesh Network for NCD Control & prevention

Treasurer

United Forum Against Tobacco

ESMO management and treatment adapted recommendations in the COVID-19 era: Breast cancer

These recommendations aim to develop guidance to mitigate the negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer patients. The situation is evolving, and pragmatic actions may be required to deal with the challenges of treating patients, while ensuring their rights, safety and well being. The points mentioned below are intended to provide guidance for all physicians involved in cancer care during this time. Due to the urgency and the rapidly evolving situation, further updates to this guidance are possible and likely. Also, we recognise that there might be specific national legislation and guidance in place, which can be taken into account to complement this guidance, or, with respect to particular matters, may take priority over these recommendations. This document is however seeking to include most of the current guidance with the aim to serve as a set of recommendations.

Cancer patient prioritisation

Priorities for breast cancer patients

Outpatient visit priorities

High Priority

Post-operative unstable clinical scenario (e.g. haematoma, infection)
Breast cancer diagnosis during pregnancy

High/Medium Priority

New diagnosis of invasive breast cancer (for multidisciplinary tumour board discussion: biology and stage will drive priority)
On-treatment patients with new symptoms or side effects (depending on severity of symptoms/side effects, burden of progression, etc.). Convert as many visits as possible to telemedicine visits. Intensify safety monitoring for those patients on oral chemotherapy or endocrine therapy plus biological agents

Medium Priority

New diagnosis of non-invasive cancer. Convert as many visits as possible to telemedicine visits
Post-operative visits in patients with no complications

Low Priority

Established patients with no new issues: refer to telemedicine
Survivorship follow-up: refer to telemedicine
Follow-up for patients at high risk of breast cancer (BRCA carriers, etc…) or patients at high risk of relapse
Psychological support visits (convert to telemedicine)

Priorities for Breast Disease: Diagnostics and imaging

High Priority

Self-diagnosis of breast lump or other symptoms suggestive of malignancy
Clinical evidence of locoregional relapse with surgical radical approach feasible

(according to stage, histology and biological features of the disease)

Pathology assessment (histopathology or cytopathology) for abnormal mammograms

or breast symptoms or

a symptomatic metastatic relapse
Further diagnostic imaging for BIRADS 5 screening mammogram in asymptomatic

subjects

Medium Priority

Further diagnostic imaging for BIRADS 4 screening mammogram in asymptomatic subjects
Image-guided or clinically guided biopsy to ascertain a suspicion of metastatic relapse
Initial metastatic work-up (according to stage and biological features) in patients with early stage invasive breast cancer
Echocardiograms in patients with early stage invasive breast cancer requiring indication to anthracycline-based or anti-HER2 treatment

Low Priority

Mammography-based population screening and risk-adapted breast screening programmes for asymptomatic subjects (e.g. MRI or US)
Patients with abnormal findings at screening mammograms who can go to 6-month interval imaging (BIRADS 3)
In patients with early stage breast cancer, follow-up imaging, restaging studies, echocardiograms, ECGs and bone density scans can be delayed if clinically asymptomatic
In patients with metastatic breast cancer, we recommend symptom-oriented follow-up. Imaging, restaging studies, echocardiograms and ECGs can be delayed or done at lengthened intervals. Implement telemedicine follow-up

Priorities for Breast Disease: Surgical Oncology

High Priority

Breast cancer surgery complication with bleeding or indication to incision and drainage of a breast abscess and/or haematoma
Complications of reconstructing surgery (e.g. ischaemia)
Surgery in patients who have completed neoadjuvant chemotherapy-based treatment (or, in exceptional cases, with progression of disease during neoadjuvant treatment)
Surgery in patients with invasive cancer for whom a multidisciplinary tumour board may decide, case by case, to proceed with upfront surgery
Breast cancer surgery during pregnancy (multidisciplinary treatment should be individualised according to stage and biology)

High/Medium Priority

Excision of malignant recurrence (depending on phenotype and extent)

Medium Priority

Clinically low-risk primary breast cancer (e.g. stage I/II ER-positive/PR-positive/HER2-negative, low grade/low proliferative index tumours). After multidisciplinary tumour board discussion consider starting neoadjuvant/preoperative endocrine therapy according to menopausal status and delay surgery
Discordant biopsies likely to be malignant

Low Priority

Excision of benign lesions and duct excision (fibroadenomas, atypia, papillomas)
Surgery of non-invasive breast cancer (in situ) except for extended high-grade DCIS
Discordant biopsies likely to be benign
Breast reconstruction with autologous tissue and/or implants
Prophylactic surgery for asymptomatic high-risk patients

Priorities for Breast Cancer: Radiation Oncology

High Priority

Palliative treatment of bleeding/painful inoperable breast mass, when control of symptoms cannot be achieved pharmacologically
Patients already on radiation treatment
Acute spinal cord compression, symptomatic brain metastases or any urgent palliative radiotherapy
Adjuvant post-operative radiotherapy for high-risk breast cancer patients (inflammatory disease at diagnosis, node-positive disease, TNBC or HER2-positive breast cancer, residual disease at surgery post neoadjuvant therapy, young age (<40)

Medium Priority

Adjuvant post-operative radiotherapy for low-/intermediate-risk breast cancer patients (age <65y and stage I/II luminal cancer, ER-positive regardless of nodal status or positive margins). Use of hypofractionated regimens should be considered to reduce hospital visits. Endocrine therapy can be started during the waiting interval

Low Priority

Elderly patients with low-risk breast cancer (age >70y, with low-risk stage I ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer): Starting adjuvant endocrine therapy is recommended while postponing radiotherapy
Carcinoma in situ

Priorities for Breast Cancer: Medical Oncology - Early Breast Cancer

High Priority

Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy for TNBC patients
Neoadjuvant and adjuvant chemotherapy in combination with targeted therapy for

HER2-positive breast cancer patients

Neoadjuvant and adjuvant endocrine therapy +/- chemotherapy for high-risk

ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer as defined by current guidelines

Completion of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (with or without anti-HER2 therapy) that

has already been initiated

Continuation of adjuvant capecitabine treatment in high-risk TNBC patients, and

T-DM1 in high-risk HER2-positive breast cancer patients (in the post-neoadjuvant setting)

Continuation of treatment in the context of a clinical trial, provided patient benefits

outweigh risks, with possible adaptation of procedures without affecting patient safety

and study conduct. Regulatory agencies and sponsors may provide guidance on rules

on study conduct during pandemics

Medium Priority

For postmenopausal women with stage I cancers, with low-intermediate-grade tumours, lobular breast cancers, endocrine therapy may be started first while surgery can be delayed
For patients with low-risk genomic signatures/score, prefer endocrine therapy alone
Ongoing adjuvant trastuzumab alone may be postponed by 6-8 weeks in patients at high risk of complicated COVID-19 infection

Low Priority

Follow-up imaging, restaging studies, echocardiograms, ECGs and bone density scans can be delayed if patient clinically asymptomatic or clinical signs of response in the neoadjuvant setting

Specific recommendations

Continuation of standard adjuvant endocrine therapy in pre and postmenopausal setting: Use telemedicine to manage potential toxicity reported by patients
Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy is an option for patients with ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer to enable deferral of surgery by 6 to 12 months in clinical stage I or II breast cancers
For selected HER2-positive breast cancer, low-risk or elderly patients with cardiovascular or other comorbidities, adjuvant anti-HER2 therapy may reasonably be discontinued after 6 months instead of 12 months of treatment according to data from prospective randomised trials
If chemotherapy is considered for a patient with ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer, then it can be administered in the neoadjuvant setting
Chemotherapy schedules may be modified to reduce accesses to hospital (for instance, using 2- or 3-weekly dosing instead of weekly dosing for selected agents when appropriate). Patients should receive G-CSF growth factor and, eventually, antibiotics support to minimise neutropaenia, while dexamethasone use should be limited, as appropriate, to reduce immunosuppression
Following a case-by-case discussion according to the logistics of the patient, LHRH analogue may be given with long acting, every 3 months dosing, to reduce patient visits or alternatively, home administration of LHRH analogue by the patient or visiting nurse may be considered. Monthly home administration of LHRH analogue by the patient or visiting nurse is the preferred recommendation
If possible, schedule imaging exams and blood tests near home
Implement telemedicine safety monitoring whenever possible

Priorities for Breast Cancer: Medical Oncology - Metastatic Breast Cancer

High Priority

Early-line •Early-line chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted agents or immune-checkpoint
inhibitors likely to improve outcomes in metastatic disease (high priority to pertuzumab/trastuzumab plus che chemotherapy in HER2-positive breast cancer). Consider also discussing case by case in a multidi multidisciplinary tumour board, endocrine therapy with CDK 4-6 inhibitors in ER-positive/ nega HER-negative breast cancer, chemotherapy plus atezolizumab in PD-L1-positive TNBC.

•Visceral crisis

Contin •Continuation of treatment in the context of a clinical trial, provided patient benefits outweigh risks, risk, with possible adaptation of procedures without affecting patient safety and study conduct. Conduct. Regulatory agencies and sponsors may provide guidance on rules on study conduct during the during the pandemics.

Medium Priority

• Second-, third-, beyond third-line treatment when therapy may provide clinical

benefit and impact on outcome

•Consider avoiding or delaying the addition of mTOR or PIK3CA inhibitors (still not

approved in European Union) to endocrine therapy, particularly in elderly patients

with comorbidities

•Consider, discussing case by case, inclusion in a clinical trial, provided patient

benefits outweigh risks, with possible adaptation of procedures without affecting

patient safety and study conduct

Low Priority

Bone agent therapy (zoledronic acid, denosumab) not urgently needed for hypercalcaemia, or not needed for pain control and in patients who are otherwise not in need of coming to the hospital (i.e. receiving oral chemotherapy or endocrine therapy). Bone agents can be administered every 3 months
If clinically asymptomatic, follow-up imaging, restaging studies, echocardiograms and ECGs can be delayed or done at lengthened intervals

Specific recommendations

When chemotherapy is recommended, prefer oral treatments in order to reduce access to hospital
Chemotherapy schedules may be modified to reduce clinical visits (for instance, using 3-weekly dosing instead of weekly dosing for selected agents when appropriate). Patients should receive G-CSF growth factor support to minimise neutropaenia, while dexamethasone use should be limited, as appropriate, to reduce immunosuppression.
LHRH analogue may be given with long acting, every 3 months dosing, to reduce patient visits or alternatively, home administration of LHRH analogue by the patient or visiting nurse may be considered. Monthly home administration of LHRH analogue by the patient or visiting nurse is the preferred recommendation.
Endocrine therapies: oral agents used widely in adjuvant or metastatic setting (e.g. tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors) should have no effect on immune function and can be safely continued. Fulvestrant should have no effect on immune function but requires monthly i.m. administration.
Implement telemedicine safety monitoring whenever possible
All patients must be assured with the best home-based supportive care and enhanced symptoms control via telemedicine
Bone agents for patients with bone metastases should be delivered at minimal hospital access
The incorporation of CDK4/6 inhibitors to endocrine treatments should align with ongoing recommendations, the local practice and resource availability. The risk associated with neutropaenia has not been clearly defined and demands research implementation - close monitoring for symptoms of infection is recommended, to promptly withdraw the treatment and possibly refer to COVID-19 diagnostic pathway
The choice of postponing the incorporation of a CDK4/6 inhibitor in the first line, for patients presenting with special patterns of disease (e.g. bone only, low-burden, de novo metastatic disease) could be an option, especially in the elderly population
For patients with advanced-metastatic TNBC, the first-line treatment can be defined based on biomarkers, according to the local practice and resource availability. For patients with PD-L1-positive TNBC, an indication for immunotherapy could be considered. The risk associated with immunotherapy in the onset and progression of COVID-19 has not been clearly described and demands research implementation - close monitoring for specific symptoms, pneumonitis or infection is recommended, to promptly withdraw the treatment and possibly refer to COVID-19 diagnostic pathway
Oral chemotherapy agents should be prioritised, whenever possible, prescribed for multiple courses and managed via telemedicine, for the predictable and manageable toxicities
The addition of mTOR or PI3KCA inhibitors is not of immediate priority and should be avoided. The induced immune-suppression (everolimus), risk of diabetes (alpelisib), risk for pulmonary side effects demanding CT scan and other healthcare services overlapping with the COVID-19 algorithm could be a reason to postpone the incorporation of these agents in later lines (e.g. in frailer patients with multiple COVID-19 risk-increasing comorbidities)
In the metastatic setting, following multidisciplinary tumour board discussion and according to patient preference, in later lines may discuss drug holidays, best supportive care and delayed regimens or de-escalated maintenance regimens, wherever appropriate.

List of abbreviations: BIRADS, Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System; COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-related disease; CT, computed tomography; DCIS, ductal carcinoma in situ; ECG, electrocardiogram; ER, oestrogen receptor; G-CSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor; HER2, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2; i.m., intramuscular; LHRH, luteinising hormone releasing hormone; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; mTOR, mammalian target of rapamycin; PD-L1, programmed death-ligand 1: PR, progesterone receptor; TDM1, trastuzumab emtansine; TNBC, triple-negative breast cancer; US, ultrasonography.

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

DearSir/ Madam,

POFFOUNDATION CANCER HOSPITAL is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

You are cordially invited to join that Live Webinar on “Comorbidities in COVID – 19 Pandemic Era“ on Saturday, 11^th July 2020 from 5.00 pm to 6.30 pm.

Topic: Comorbidities in COVID-19 Pandemic Era-POFFOUNDATION CANCER HOSPITAL's Zoom Meeting
Time: Jul 11, 2020 05:00 PM Astana, Dhaka

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/5496732990?pwd=SzJ5QktOQnY1RWtWSGxxWE0xREQxQT09

Meeting ID: 549 673 2990
Password: 7EA5pu

Organized by: Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute, Paikkandi, Gopalgonj.

Faculties:

Prof. AFM Ruhal Haq MP – Former Minister, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

02. Prof. Dr. Habibe Millat MP- Vice Chairman, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society

03. Prof. M.A. Hai- Director, Bangladesh Cancer Society Hospital & Welfare Home

04. Prof. Dr. Md. Faridul Alam- V.C. Bangladesh University of Health Sciences

05. Prof. Kh. A. Awal Rizvi- Secretary General, National Heart Foundation of Bangladesh

06. Prof. Kanu Bala – President, WONCA South Asian Region

07. Prof. Dr. Golam Mohiuddin Faruque- Project Director & Joint Sec. Bangladesh Cancer Society

08. Prof. Dr. Qazi Mushtaq Hussain- Director, National Cancer Research Institute & Hospital

09. Prof. Dr. S.M. Mustafa Zaman- Professor of Cardiology, BSMMU

10. Prof. Dr. Faruq Ahmed- Director, Sheikh Russel Gastroliver Hospital & Research Institute

11. Prof. Md. Faruq Ahmed- Former Director, National Institute of Mental Health

12. Mr. Habibur Rahman – DIG, Dhaka

13. Mrs. Shahida Sultana- District Commissioner, Gopalganj

14. Mr. Shakhawat Hossain Salim- Editor, Usanewsonlin.com, New York, U.S.A

Program Director

Prof. Dr. Mollah Obayedullah Baki
Professo & Chief Consultant Oncologist
Professor Dr. Obayedullah-Ferdousi Foundation Cancer Hospital & Research Institute

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj

www.poffounation.org;info@poffoundation.org, poffoundationcancerhospital@gmail.com

Hotlines: +880-1710941199,+880-1711310534, +880-1759154546.

Cancer prevention and COVID-19

Please note that this may be updated as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves

27 April 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has immediate and long-term implications for a range of factors that can influence an individual’s risk of developing cancer – especially for those in vulnerable and low-income populations, and those facing a rapid loss of income. While the pandemic presents immediate health risks, it is also changing our food consumption patterns and our levels of physical activity, potentially impacting on the longer-term health of populations.

The World Health Organization has highlighted that people with pre-existing medical conditions and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer, appear to be more at risk of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms after catching the virus. There is also some preliminary evidence that people living with obesity also have worse health outcomes ^1-3.

Diet, immunity and COVID-19

Living with overweight and obesity increases the risk of at least 12 different types of cancer. So a healthy, balanced diet is vital for good health, but especially so during and after infection. As shown by World Cancer Research Fund’s (WCRF) Cancer Prevention Recommendations a healthy diet, alongside physical activity, is key to maintaining a healthy immune system. There is also evidence to show that people affected by obesity can have an impaired immune response or immune function, making them more vulnerable to infections. Not only does a healthy diet provide ongoing support to the immune system, but as part of a healthy lifestyle it can help reduce around 40 per cent of cancers, as highlighted in WCRF’s Third Expert Report, Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Cancer: a Global Perspective.

The wider consequences of COVID-19

However, the very measures designed to keep us safe from COVID-19, such as lockdowns, have the unintended consequence of affecting our diet and physical activity levels. This often affects the poorest and most vulnerable disproportionately, due to the lack of access to quality, affordable, healthy food. The pandemic has caused food supply disruption, stockpiling and production issues, and spikes in food prices. This has led to an increased reliance on highly processed, long shelf life, calorie-rich foods and has reduced access to fresh fruit and vegetables. In addition, nutrition-specific community measures designed to address problems of malnutrition might be suspended to focus health resources on COVID-19.

All of these changes can contribute to weight gain during the pandemic, the long-term effects of which can have an impact throughout the life course, starting for example with the suspension of a number of different health services, for example maternal health services such as breastfeeding support services. For children, having been breastfed reduces their risk of being overweight or obese in childhood and adulthood, decreasing their risk of many cancers later in later life.

There are also health risks due to reduced physical activity and increased sedentary behaviour due to movement restrictions and physical distancing measures. In America, time spent on streaming platforms such as Netflix, YouTube and Amazon Prime grew by 34 percent over two weeks at the beginning of March, with collective usage going from 116.4 billion minutes the week of March 2 to 156.1 billion in the week of March 16.

WCRF’s expert panel found strong evidence that greater screen time is a convincing cause of weight gain, overweight and obesity in children – an issue that could be exacerbated in the current crisis. Increased screen time also increases exposure to advertising which research shows affects the dietary intake of children ⁴. However, for many stuck inside with no access to gardens or other outdoor spaces, active video games or exercise videos might be their best chance for physical activity.

Changes to the food environment during the pandemic

The food and drink industry have been quick to pivot to offer products and services to overcome physical distancing or offer ‘comfort’ in a time in crisis. However, many of these products are high in salt, fat and sugar. In managing the immediate crisis, there are risks that the enforcement of regulations could be relaxed, loopholes exploited, and businesses start using new tactics to promote unhealthy products in times of economic crisis and uncertainty.

To ensure populations continue to access and consume healthy diets and can be physically active during the pandemic, governments should:

Recognise that the food system and health system are intrinsically linked.
Ensure healthy and affordable food is available for all, especially for those who are more vulnerable to COVID-19, are from low-income households, or rely on social protection.
Continue advancing obesity and NCD prevention policies that are in development.
Encourage the food and drink industry to offer healthy and affordable food.
Run campaigns to promote healthy food preparation and consumption.
Maintain surveillance on policies and industry actions that may undermine access to healthy diets, and ensure that policies relating to healthy diets are still enforced and that regulations are not exploited (especially in relation to children).

Tackle misinformation about COVID-19 and promote the importance of high quality and trustworthy news sources, especially around diet, nutrition and physical activity.

Deliver mass communication campaigns and messaging on how to remain physically active whilst physically distancing.

Prioritising health-promoting food policies

Before the pandemic we already had a global epidemic of overweight and obesity. Governments could be presented with a ‘ticking health time-bomb’ of rising overweight and obesity rates and a greater burden of disease once the pandemic subsides if healthy diets and physical activity are not prioritised.

Indeed, this pandemic could provide the pivotal moment to refocus on prevention, reshape policy and increase action to reduce rising rates of overweight and obesity.

To achieve this, we urge governments to, as soon as viable, take a longer-term view and:

Promote affordable and accessible healthy foods to all.
Adopt a comprehensive approach, as outlined in the NOURISHING framework, to policy making to ensure policy coherence between food and health.
Promote increased physical activity in policy development processes.
Seek international cooperation and policy coherence between food policy and health.

These are very difficult times. Despite these challenges, WCRF commends the World Health Organization for its leadership and coordination of the pandemic response. The World Health Organization has played, and continues to play, a critical role in protecting people’s health and we urge the international community to maintain support for the WHO.

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

Cancer prevention and COVID-19

Please note that this may be updated as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves

27 April 2020

Diet, immunity and COVID-19

The wider consequences of COVID-19

Changes to the food environment during the pandemic

To ensure populations continue to access and consume healthy diets and can be physically active during the pandemic, governments should:

Recognise that the food system and health system are intrinsically linked.
Ensure healthy and affordable food is available for all, especially for those who are more vulnerable to COVID-19, are from low-income households, or rely on social protection.
Continue advancing obesity and NCD prevention policies that are in development.
Encourage the food and drink industry to offer healthy and affordable food.
Run campaigns to promote healthy food preparation and consumption.
Maintain surveillance on policies and industry actions that may undermine access to healthy diets, and ensure that policies relating to healthy diets are still enforced and that regulations are not exploited (especially in relation to children).

Tackle misinformation about COVID-19 and promote the importance of high quality and trustworthy news sources, especially around diet, nutrition and physical activity.

Deliver mass communication campaigns and messaging on how to remain physically active whilst physically distancing.

Prioritising health-promoting food policies

Indeed, this pandemic could provide the pivotal moment to refocus on prevention, reshape policy and increase action to reduce rising rates of overweight and obesity.

To achieve this, we urge governments to, as soon as viable, take a longer-term view and:

Promote affordable and accessible healthy foods to all.
Adopt a comprehensive approach, as outlined in the NOURISHING framework, to policy making to ensure policy coherence between food and health.
Promote increased physical activity in policy development processes.
Seek international cooperation and policy coherence between food policy and health.

Courtesy:

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

Paikkandi, Gopalgonj, Bnagladesh.

Hotlines: +088-01711310534, +088-017109411

Cancer Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic:

What is COVID-19 and how will the pandemic affect cancer care?

This guide has been prepared to help you, as well as your friends, family and caregivers, better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on your cancer care. It contains information on COVID-19 and its symptoms and measures you can take to lower your risk of becoming infected. It also provides information on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on various aspects of cancer care, including possible changes to your treatment plan and appointments, which may be necessary to keep you safe from infection.

Information relating to COVID-19 is continually evolving and the guidance provided here will be updated regularly.The information and approaches described in this guide may differ between countries and hospitals; therefore, you should remain in close telephone/email contact with your treating physician or nurse as they know your full medical history and will advise on the best approach for you. The information included in this guide is not intended as a replacement for your doctor’s advice. We recommend that you ask your doctor about the specific effects of the pandemic on treatment for your type and stage of cancer.

Transmission of coronaviruses from person to person is thought to mostly occur via the droplets generated when we sneeze and cough. The new coronavirus that causes COVID-19 seems to be very contagious, with each infected person typically passing the virus on to another two people.Good hygiene measures, such as washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, are very important under normal circumstances. However, they must be even more strictly observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, as these simple measures can greatly reduce your risk of becoming infected and passing the infection onto other people.

Preventative strategies for avoiding COVID-19 are outlined below.

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What is COVID-19 and how will the pandemic affect cancer care?

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