The International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association (IHPBA), which organised this year’s World Congress, together with the South African Gastroenterology Society (SAGES), bestowed Dr Yonela Qubekile a Gastroenterology Foundation Award for Best Presentation by a Fellow at the event, where a record 1 800 abstracts had been accepted.
The focus of the ongoing research Qubekile presented was into innovative strategies to enhance early diagnosis of colorectal cancer in the region, the study was titled: Point of Care Immunochemical Faecal Occult Blood Testing and Symptoms Based Clinical Prediction Model to Promote Earlier Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer in South Africa.
The study highlighted that in South Africa, colorectal cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer among both men and women, with poorer outcomes often resulting from late-stage diagnosis. ‘Early detection is essential to improve survival rates, but there are significant challenges such as limited endoscopic capacity and diagnostic delays. Implementing point of care immunochemical faecal occult blood testing may provide a practical solution by identifying patients who would benefit most from early colonoscopy, thus optimising healthcare resources and improving colorectal cancer outcomes,’ she said.
Early symptoms of colorectal cancer, said Qubekile, include changes in bowel habits, such as alternating diarrhoea and constipation. ‘Other symptoms may involve unexplained weight loss, rectal bleeding and the persistent feeling of incomplete evacuation, known as tenesmus.’
Qubekile said point-of-care immunochemical faecal occult blood testing is not specialised at all. ‘It is the only point-of-care faecal immunochemical test (FIT) that can be conducted in clinics or district hospitals, making it accessible and convenient. If the result is positive, especially in the presence of “red flag” symptoms for colorectal cancer, patients can be expedited to receive a colonoscopy.’
‘I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the accolade,’ she said. ‘The recognition was particularly meaningful given the outstanding level of research that was presented. Being acknowledged among such esteemed and talented peers makes this even more special.’
Qubekile said one of the significant barriers faced by the country is the absence of colorectal screening guidelines, particularly within the public sector. Additionally, she said there is little availability of trained and skilled endoscopists, as well as a scarcity of endoscopic resources.
‘Raising awareness can be achieved through public education campaigns, community engagement, healthcare provider involvement and policy advocacy. Strategies include media, social media and targeted outreach to high-risk populations: these include people with a family history of colorectal cancer or inherited genetic syndromes, people with a personal history of polyps (a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon) or colorectal cancer,’ she said.
Qubekile chose to specialise in gastroenterology because she was fascinated by the complexity of the digestive system and its vital role in overall heath. ‘I discovered a genuine love for procedures like endoscopies that allow for both diagnosis and treatment. The blend of hands-on care, research opportunities and long-term patient relationship made gastroenterology the perfect fit for me.’
Qubekile said she is determined to pursue her PhD after completing her current Certificate in Gastroenterology.
Words: Lunga Memela
Photograph: Supplied