Improving palliative treatment of patients with non-operable cancer of the oesophagus: training doctors and nurses in the use of self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) in Malawi.

Cancer of the oesophagus is the 6th most common cancer in Malawi. Nationwide only three hospitals are able to perform oesophagectomies, and there is no radiotherapy or chemotherapy available. Owing to late presentation of the patients (sometimes in combination with co-morbidities such as HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis) the vast majority of patients are not suitable for surgery. Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) of the oesophagus provide a suitable palliative option to improve the quality of life for patients. This project took a nationwide approach, raising funds for both technical equipment and training of endoscopists and nursing staff throughout Malawi.