King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC) -the regional host for Global Bridges in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR)- was recently featured in an article in the Mayo Alumni Magazine. The article praised the achievements of Global Bridges Healthcare Alliance, and highlighted KHCC's role and success in training on tobacco dependence treatment (TDT), especially in light of the high prevalence rates but shortage of structured tobacco dependence treatment services in the EMR region. Global Bridges, launched in 2010, mobilizes and trains a network of healthcare professionals to enhance their preparedness to provide TDT services.
To meet this goal, KHCC, represented by the Cancer Control Office (CCO), conducts training workshops in the EMR to build the capacity of participants to treat tobacco dependence and deliver hands-on training. While the workshops address counseling and pharmacotherapy from theoretical and practical perspectives, the style varies between lecturing and interactive exercises. In addition, participants practice their newly acquired skills by addressing scenarios inspired by the trainers' real-world experiences. After two successful events in Jordan, KHCC recently held a workshop in Tunisia and another in Egypt, and has thus far trained 100 participants, representing10 countries from the region. Plans for 2012 will seek to engage a similar number of new participants and expand the reach into the Gulf area.
Participants have expressed deep satisfaction with the workshops, especially with the manner in which counseling and setting an individualized plan are addressed. Participants with no previous experience find the training an eye-opener while experienced ones believe it considerably improves their ability to handle various TDT cases. In general, participants leave with a serious intent to incorporate TDT services into their practice.
Dr. Feras Hawari, director of the CCO and regional director for GB, expressed content with the progress in EMR saying, "This success builds on the team's firm belief in the role that TDT plays in controlling cancer and other NCDs. It also builds on team members wanting to create a difference in the cancer scene in Jordan and the region." Dr. Hawari also commended the team saying, "Collectively, our team has experience in tobacco dependence treatment as well as designing and executing training workshops; truly a winning combination."
For more information, please call: 0777652229 or 009625300460 Ext: 1772 / 2209
Hanan Mohidin
Public Relations & Media Officer
Media and Public Relations office
King Hussein Cancer Center
Email: hmohidin@khcc.jo
Or Aisha Shtaiwi - Communication & Outreach Specialist
Cancer Control Office
King Hussein Cancer Center
Email: ashtaiwi@khcc.jo
© Press Release 2012
