Understanding Sexual and Reproductive Health in Palliative Care: A Patient-Centered Approach

Description

In Kenya, over 69% of adults with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) require palliative and long-term care. These conditions—ranging from end-stage organ failure to cancers—affect not only physical health but also emotional and relational well-being. Some illnesses, such as cervical, breast, and prostate cancers, directly impact sexuality, while others have indirect effects through psychological or functional changes. To bridge this gap, KEHPCA (Kenya Hospices and Palliative Care Association), with the support of AmplifyChange, has been championing the integration of SRH into palliative care services.

Objectives

Presenters

1. Dr. Anisa Mburu
   Dr. Anisa Mburu is a dedicated gynecologic oncologist based at the Aga Khan Hospital in Mombasa. With a strong focus on research, she specializes in HPV-associated cancers, particularly cervical cancer, pediatric gynecological cancers, and palliative care. Dr. Mburu has contributed significantly to the field with publications and ongoing research projects in these areas. She is a distinguished fellow and Early Career Faculty Mentor for both the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) and the International Cancer Institute (ICI). Her expertise extends to editorial roles, having completed an Editorial fellowship and currently serving as a reviewer for the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer (IJGC). Dr. Mburu holds certifications from IGCS in Palliative Care and as a Trainer of Trainers for the Preinvasive Disease Program. She has been selected as the co-chair of the Palliative Care Work group for IGCS, demonstrating her leadership in the field. In addition to her clinical and research roles, Dr. Mburu serves as an expert advisor for the WHO sub-committee on the Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy through Surgical Capacity Building, the European Society of Gynecological Oncology (ESGO) Resource-Stratified Guidelines Cervical Cancer Management and in the advisory board for Ovarian Cancer Management. She actively contributes to educational initiatives, including curriculum development for palliative care and nursing in gynecologic oncology as a member of the IGCS education committee. Dr. Mburu is committed to mentorship and professional development, currently undertaking a 2-year mentorship core with the European Society of Gynecological Oncology and European Network of Young Gynecologic Oncologists (ESGO-ENYGO) Program. She has also played a key role in training primary healthcare workers in colposcopy through a collaborative effort between the National Cancer Control Program (NCCP) and the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI).
   Aga Khan Hospital, Mombasa