Knowledge Enhancement Tools for Healthcare Professionals in Oncology

Abstract

Background: The burden of cancer is rising in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), yet major gaps persist in oncology education and workforce capacity. In Senegal, the shortage of trained oncology professionals and limited access to up-to-date educational resources compromise the quality of care. Objective: This project aimed to strengthen oncology education in Senegal through the development and deployment of a suite of digital learning tools adapted to the local context, targeting healthcare professionals and patients. Methods: Supported by an Independent Medical Education grant from Pfizer, the project adopted a blended educational approach combining online modules, in-person workshops, and interactive content. Topics addressed included breast cancer care, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, multidisciplinary coordination, and patient education. A total of seven specialty modules and six patient/nurse-targeted modules were produced and made freely accessible via the online platform https://cancer-senegal.org. Impact was measured through pre- and post-training assessments, participant feedback, and platform analytics. Results: More than 100 healthcare professionals engaged with the content, with knowledge gains averaging 28% post-intervention. High satisfaction levels were reported, particularly for the modular structure and contextual relevance of the material. Nurses and allied professionals also benefited from targeted practical guides, while patient-facing tools improved communication and understanding of the care pathway. Conclusion: This initiative demonstrates that a context-sensitive, multi-format educational platform can significantly enhance oncology training and multidisciplinary coordination in LMICs. The open-access nature of the tools supports long-term dissemination and capacity building across francophone Africa.