Moving On ABC

Work Stream 1

The aim of WS 1 is to evaluate the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for women with breast cancer who suffer from depression. This study will take place across eight cities of Pakistan including Karachi, Hyderabad, Nawabshah, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, Quetta, and Peshawar. Women will be approached in hospitals and community settings.

Participant age 18 and above, who have completed initial breast cancer treatment and having depression will be invited to participate. In this study participants will undergo into three phases of interventions based on their response to the intervention.

In phase 1 participants will be categorized into either Enhanced Treatment as Usual (the usual care they are receiving from health professionals) or a guided self-help intervention called “Moving on After Breast Cancer” (ABC). After six weeks, participants in the ABC arm will be assessed for their depressive symptoms.

Non- responders will be re-categorized in phase 2 into either continued guided self-help ABC intervention or a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) based intervention called “Moving on ABC Plus.

” In phase 3 non-responders from Moving on ABC Plus group, will either continue Moving on ABC Plus or receive additional antidepressant therapy. The guided self-help Moving on ABC intervention uses culturally adapted CBT approach, focusing on self-help through guided sessions by community health workers.

The Moving on ABC Plus is an integrated approach based on CBT for depression and offers practical support and advice on life after breast cancer, managing difficulties and social relationships and teach mindfulness skills. Moving on ABC plus is a therapist delivered intervention.  The primary outcome of this study is the improvement of depression, at 48 weeks post intervention. Secondary outcomes include improvement in anxiety, quality of life, self-esteem, and social support.

Work Stream 2 – Co-developing, evaluating and enabling implementation, scale up and sustainability

Maximizing existing knowledge
We will combine and analyze data from previous studies that evaluated our proposed intervention to see what we can learn about how best to deliver Moving on ABC. We already spoken to 15 depressed breast cancer survivors before they used the intervention, 17 survivors after they used the intervention, and 12 family members about their experiences. By re-examining this data, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences, how the psychological intervention affected them and how we might deliver this in the best possible way. This will help us in determining how our intervention will be perceived, what will be the local setting in which interventions will be delivered, who will be delivering and who will receive the interventions and the process of implementation.

Co-designing an implementation strategy
We will host a one-day workshop and gather a group of diverse people for a day to decide on the best ways to implement our intervention that fits our community in a collaborative way. If we notice that certain perspectives or types of participants are missing, we’ll invite those who we have collaborated before, and ask them to recommend others they think should join. We will also invite community and religious leaders, health and education professionals and those involved in policy-making at national and provincial levels.
Process evaluation

We will work collaboratively with patients and community members and will find patterns or ideas that naturally emerge, creating overarching ideas based on that analysis. This analysis will enable us to understand key facilitators, lessons learned and barriers to implementing such intervention in our study sites – and make changes accordingly. We’ll create schedules, in Urdu, for interviews and focus groups that can be done online or in person. We’ll mix our findings with proven concepts to get a well-rounded understanding. This will help us identify the key factors that are essential for making sure our new intervention is adopted and maintained over time.

Work Stream 3 – Community and Social Media Campaign for prevention and early identification of breast cancer

In this work-stream, we will create a breast cancer prevention program using the COM-B Behavior Change Model, which focuses on three areas. Capability which include person’s mental and physical ability to act. Opportunity which include external factors that support or block the action and Motivation which include thoughts and automatic responses that drive a person to act. These three areas work together to shape behavior. The objectives include increasing awareness of breast cancer risk factors and preventive measures through a multi-model media campaign, promoting regular breast self-examinations, addressing cultural misconceptions, and evaluating the campaign’s effectiveness in improving communication about cancer awareness and treatment. A mixed-methods approach will engage active social media users aged 18 to 65, guiding the campaign across platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The initiative will co-produce content with 30 participants, including stakeholders and survivors, to develop interaction and impactful narratives.

Our campaign will gather data from social media metrics (views, engagement), Google Analytics, and user surveys. Impact stories will direct the campaign’s messaging for long-term sustainability. The content will be culturally tailored, translated, and aligned with the study’s objectives. A triangulation approach will integrate multiple data sources, and statistical analysis will assess changes in participants’ behaviour, capabilities, and motivations. Co-design courses with stakeholders will provide additional qualitative insights. Co-design is a participatory method to designing solutions that involves treating community members as equal partners. Especially in the public sector, co-design is a proven method of creative practice. Four principles effectively support co-design which includes: share power, use participatory means, prioritise relationships, and build capability.

There some campaigns already exist in Pakistan that encourage early detection through advocacy, free screenings, and awareness-raising events.

Work Stream 4

Estimating impact of mental health conditions on economic outcomes

Mental health can have impact on the economic outcomes, this work stream is design to estimate it. Economic outcomes are measured by employment status, income, number of working hours per day and wage per day, while other household characteristics are also considered in the study model. There are three phases in which psycho-social and pharmacological interventions will be delivered to breast cancer survivors with comorbid depression. Initially, economic outcomes are assessed at phase 1 to observe improvements in correlation with mental health progress. Mental health of the participants will be measured by Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD). Those having value less than or equal to seven will be considered as remitters after the intervention. The study progresses through phase 2 and 3 for participants who do not achieve remission. Economic outcomes will be measured at each subsequent phase for both treatment and control group.

Impact of mental health on economic outcomes

We are studying how mental health, especially depression, can affect a person’s job, income, and work hours. This project focuses on breast cancer survivors who are also dealing with depression. By providing different types of support, we aim to see how improving their mental health can help them return to work, earn more, and improve their overall quality of life. The study will bring changes in their work and finances as their mental health improves through each stage of care.

Work Stream 5 – Engagement with Policy Makers/Parliamentarians

Therefore, the aim of this work package is to work in collaboration with health and academia, social enterprises, government (Ministry of Health) and non-government sectors, health system managers and hospital administrators  voluntary organizations, persons with lived experience, and the community to co-produce knowledge that is relevant and useful for prevention and management of multiple long-term conditions (breast cancer and depression).

The objectives of this workstream include strengthening partnerships between policymakers and researchers to address depression among breast cancer survivors by assessing the current capacity of policymakers using the Seeking, Engaging with and Evaluating Research-(SEER) tool, educating policymakers on utilizing research for evidence-based health systems, meeting with policymakers at least twice a year to share findings, and ensuring the sustainability of an integrated psychosocial care plan and multimodal social media campaign. The policymakers’ participation in social media campaigns will improve early detection, risk assessment, and prevention. Series of collaborative workshops with the policy makers and key stakeholders will lead to the development of low-cost interventions and a ‘train-the-trainer’ programme for healthcare professionals to strengthen research and clinical expertise.

This collaboration focuses on enhancing mental health policies in Pakistan, working closely with the Health Services Academy and the Ministry of Health, Sindh. In addition to this, Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) is collaborating with the leaders of Pakistan’s federal and provincial legislatures on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Work Stream 6 – Capacity Building in Research and Clinical Practice

The work-stream aims to build research capacity and capability in designing and conducting clinical trials in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with a focus on psychosocial interventions and care planning for depression and breast cancer. Within this WS we want to advance the use of innovative trial designs in global mental health research, ensuring trials are effective and locally relevant. The training programme will include introducing mental health research methods to early career researchers through certificate (50 students per year) and diploma (20 students per year). We will develop and deliver training in psychosocial interventions and care planning for therapists and supervisors working with depressed breast cancer survivors. In addition, using the train-the-trainer approach, we will train community health workers, nurses, and general practitioners in the assessment and early detection of breast cancer to improve research capacity in Pakistan. Our partner from Afghanistan, Dr Jandad, is supporting us in developing curriculum for this training. One very exciting output from this WS would be to enroll 6 PhD and 10 MPhil students to research oncology and mental health, focusing on breast cancer markers, psychosocial interventions, and the social impact of cancer, addressing health inequalities in LMICs like Pakistan.

Work Stream 7 – Development of a Standardized Breast Cancer Registry in Pakistan

Objective

To develop a standardized breast cancer registry in Pakistan that aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global registry model. This initiative will involve embedding WHO cancer registry variables into existing cancer registries and conducting a pilot test of the standardized registry across Sindh province.

Why It Is Needed

Currently, Pakistan lacks comprehensive registries to document breast cancer incidence and mortality rates, limiting effective national prevention efforts. The establishment of a national cancer registry is crucial, especially considering that only eight hospitals are currently collecting relevant data. Inadequate documentation hinders our ability to track early management, assess patient outcomes, and implement targeted interventions.

Significance

The proposed breast cancer registry will serve multiple essential functions:

• Standardization: By using a “common language” in cancer registration, we can enhance coordination among healthcare providers and improve data accuracy.
• Government Support: The Sindh government’s endorsement and collaboration with the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) underscore the initiative’s importance in addressing breast cancer.
• Sustainability Assessment: The registry will enable us to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of ongoing interventions, including capacity-building initiatives and public awareness campaigns.
• Foundation for Future Research: Integrating this registry into existing systems will facilitate comprehensive data collection, ultimately leading to improved healthcare policies and cancer management strategies across Pakistan.

Meeting with the CEO of Pink Ribbon

The research team at the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) had an insightful meeting with the CEO of Pink Ribbon to discuss a potential collaboration. The aim is to reach 100,000 breast cancer survivors through community outreach and advocacy as part of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR)-funded programme, “Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low-Resource Settings” (NIHR205561).

The meeting was chaired by Prof. Nasim Chaudhry, CEO of PILL and Lead Investigator of the programme. Dr. Tayyeba Kiran, Associate Programme Director, provided an overview of the seven workstreams.

Click here for Urdu translation

Breast Cancer Awareness Session

On March 3rd, the PILL Multan team including Community Research Assistant Miss Fatima Raza and Community Supervisor Shafqat Jehan conducted a community awareness session on breast cancer awareness as part of the Moving on ABC project for breast cancer survivors struggling with depression. The session covered symptoms, risk factors, common myths, lifestyle changes, physical treatments, and mental health support. The primary focus was on early detection and the importance of monthly self-examinations, emphasizing that awareness and early detection can save lives!

Breast Cancer Awareness Session in Multan

Pakistan Institute of Living Learning organized a breast cancer awareness session 04-11-2024 at Rise Girls College, Multan, engaging over 70 plus students and teachers.Researchers from PILL discussed the causes of breast cancer and prevention strategies.

Rise College praised the initiative, expressing appreciation for the Pakistan Institute of living and learning efforts and recommending future sessions.

Breast Cancer Awareness Programme in Benazairabad

Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) Shaheed Benazirabad (Nawabshah) conducted a Breast Cancer Awareness program in the community on 26th November 2024.

The session was organized for local Lady Health Supervisors (LHS), Lady Health Workers (LHWs), and women from the area. I engaged Miss Afshan, a psychologist from PILL, who provided valuable insights on early diagnosis, causes, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer, as well as the importance of psychosocial support.

All three of us—Mr. Mansoor Ahmed, Mr. Majid Sain Bux, and Miss Afshan from PILL—presented the Moving on After Breast Cancer (Moving on ABC) research initiative and conducted interviews with breast cancer survivors to discuss their journeys.

The community members expressed their gratitude to PILL Shaheed Benazirabad for organizing this important event and appreciated the efforts to raise awareness. They also pledged continued support for PILL’s awareness initiatives and the delivery of care.

During the session, participants not only gained crucial knowledge, but also engaged actively in discussions. This fostered a sense of unity and teamwork as they collectively addressed an important health issue, emphasizing the need for such efforts to raise awareness among women in Nawabshah and surrounding areas.

World Breast Cancer Day 2024 Commemorated at Bab ul Madinah Institute of Health Sciences, Peshawar

Peshawar, 15 October 2024 – World Breast Cancer Day with a successful event aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of 60 participants, including female BS Nursing students, teachers and healthcare professionals. Dr. Alia and Dr. Maimoona, both esteemed professionals in the field of oncology, led the session, delivering insightful presentations that highlighted the importance of early detection, advancements in treatment options, and strategies for overcoming challenges associated with breast cancer. Their discussions were tailored to educate participants on how to recognize early symptoms, seek timely medical advice, and adopt healthier lifestyles as preventive measures. Psychologists from PILL Peshawar team also presented and highlighted the mental health aspects related to breast cancer.

Participants expressed appreciation for the speakers’ expertise and dedication to making complex medical information accessible. The event concluded with a collective pledge by participants to support breast cancer awareness initiatives and contribute to early detection efforts within their communities.

Uniting for a Cause: Breast Cancer Awareness

Participants expressed appreciation for the speakers’ expertise and dedication to making complex medical information accessible. The event concluded with a collective pledge by participants to support breast cancer awareness initiatives and contribute to early detection efforts within their communities.

Dr. Tayyeba Kiran Highlights Mental Health in Breast Cancer Care at ‘Turning the Tide’ Programme

Dr. Tayyeba Kiran was invited as a panelist to represent Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning at awareness programme “Turning the Tide” organised by NORI Hospital. During the panel discussion Dr Kiran talked about importance of prioritizing mental health during all stages of breast cancer starting from diagnosis to survivorship. She talked about depression, anxiety, self-image and self-esteem related concerns. She also highlighted the importance of social support to overcome mental health related difficulties during survivorship.

PILL Team Sparks Breast Cancer Awareness at Rawalpindi Women University

The PILL Team in Rawalpindi has successfully organised a breast cancer awareness session with students at Rawalpindi Women University. Dr. Huma Sabir, Assistant Professor of Surgery and a General Laparoscopic and Breast Surgeon at the Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU), talked about importance of early detection and self-examination, encouraging students to take charge of their health. Ms. Farah Zulqarnain from PILL discussed the emotional impact of breast cancer on patients and families, highlighting how young people can actively support awareness and prevention efforts.

Karachi, Community Awareness Session on Breast Cancer

A community awareness session on breast self-examination for early breast cancer detection was conducted in Karachi, with 50 women. During the session, participants openly shared their concerns and personal experiences related to potential symptoms, leading to referrals for further assessments where needed. The session also included comprehensive psychoeducation on the steps for self-examination, impacts of early detection, and associated risk factors, provided through both written materials and verbal guidance to enhance understanding and encourage proactive health practices.

Awareness Session in Multan

Breast cancer awareness event at Multan with community workers at BHU on 23rd October 2024.

Workshop on Research Planning and Scientific Writing

Rawalpindi Pill team participated in a one-day workshop on Research Planning and Scientific Writing, organized in collaboration with the Burns Unit PIMS Islamabad. The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ skills in designing research studies, drafting scientific manuscripts, and adopting evidence-based practices.At the end of the training, the team was honored with certificates presented by the hosting organization, BURNCON.

Training Attendees Explore Innovative Approaches to Supporting Patients with Chronic Illness

Prof Zainab F Zadeh and Dr Tayyeba Kiran attended one day training on “Working with long-term physical illness and medically unexplained symptoms: Help your patients reclaim their lives from illness, disability, pain or fatigue” facilitated by Professor Chris Williams, Fellow Royal College of Psychiatrists and Hon Fellow BABCP, on 6th November. During the session Dr Kiran and Prof Zadeh discussed the opportunity to co-adapt training material to incorporate this into the high intensity CBT intervention manual for breast cancer survivors with comorbid depression in Pakistan (NIHR205561)

Deductive Coding Session

Second session facilitated by Dr Helen Brooks on Deductive Coding in Framework Analysis

Framework Analysis Training Session: A Collaborative Learning Experience

An interactive training session on the Framework Analysis was facilitated by Helen Brooks (University of Manchester), work-stream 2 co-lead on our project “Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low Resources Settings – NIHR205561”. The early career researchers got the opportunity to ask questions related to inductive coding, situations where Framework analysis is most suitable, and Gale’s approach.

Clinical and Cost-Effectiveness Discussion: ‘Moving on ABC’ Interventions

An interactive session was conducted with the ‘Moving on ABC’ team regarding the orientation session of WS1. The session focused on determining the clinical and cost-effectiveness of three interventions: 1) low-intensity guided self-help, 2) Moving on ABC Plus, and 3) Moving on ABC Plus combined with antidepressants.”

GDPR Training Session Conducted for NIHR RIGHT 6 Research Team

A training session was conducted by Dr Hyder Abbas on General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) for research team working on the NIHR RIGHT 6 funded programme “Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low Resources Settings – NIHR205561”. Dr Abbas has worked over 20 years in Hospital and in Family Medicine England. He has been a clinical governance and training lead in his practice and for local Health authorities. During the session, research team got opportunities to discuss topics such as breach of confidentiality, rights of participants to rectify information provided by them during research, data transfer etc.

CEI Meeting

An introductory meeting to plan CEI work for Moving on ABC in Sri Lanka

Moving on ABC Training

Prof Zainab F Zadeh and Dr Tayyeba Kiran attended one day interactive training programme on “15 minute CBT for use in clinical teams 2024: a 5 areas approach for use with adult and older adult patients” by Prof Christopher Williams (University of Glasgow, Five Areas Limited) on 16th October 2024. This was an excellent opportunity to brainstorm ideas on refinement of low intensity guided self-help intervention for depressed breast cancer survivors in NIHR RIGHT 6 funded project “Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low Resources Settings” (NIHR205561)

Medical Camp in Lahore

The PILL team Lahore organized a medical camp concentrating on mental health initiatives, incorporating projects such as the BURNS Project, OAR CARE project, CAPSI, and Moving On ABC, which supports breast cancer patients. Furthermore, the team interacted with autism patients, conducting evaluations to pinpoint potential participants for their projects based on established criteria. This outreach effort aimed to deliver support, resources, and hope to individuals and families impacted by these conditions.

Meeting with Lady Health Workers

The RWP PILL team held a meeting with Lady Health Workers (LHWs) in H-13, Golra, G-9, and H-8, Islamabad, chaired by the Lady Health Supervisor (LHS). The discussion focused on onboarding LHWs as community facilitators for the Moving on ABC project.

First Meeting of the Sindh Moving On ABC CEI Group

Glimpse from the First Meeting of the Sindh Moving On ABC CEI Group ,the session aimed to create a supportive space by setting ground rules and encouraging open conversations. Participants shared their personal experiences, challenges, and coping strategies, highlighting the important role of family, faith, and community. They also discussed how societal attitudes affect them and the need for greater awareness and understanding.

Session with Lady Health Workers

The PILL Rawalpindi Team conducted an orientation session with Lady Health Workers and Supervisors in Tarlai, Islamabad. The community workers welcomed the initiative and appreciated the idea of organizing screening camps at the community level to enhance patient identification. Moving forward, the PILL team will identify select Lady Health Workers to bring them on board as Community Facilitators, further strengthening efforts for participant identification and the Consent to Contact process for Moving on ABC.

Meeting with Dr. Asif

On 20-Feb-2025 PILL Peshawar team conducted an important meeting with Hayatabad Medical Complex oncology department Dr. Asif. He extended full support in access to Breast Cancer patient from Oncology ward .

Community Engagement Session in Hyderabad

On 13-Feb-2025 The team from the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL) Hyderabad conducted Moving on ABC community engagement session with 40 participants. The team included Miss Prah, Miss Rukhsar, and Sir Meer. We held the session in Bhatti Goth with women We provided information about self-assessment, symptoms, causes, treatments, and psychological support. Together with the participants.

First CEI Meeting with Balochistan Province

Glimpse of first CEI Meeting with Balochistan Province where CEI members shared their experiences with breast cancer, highlighting their challenges and resilience. The ABC team introduced the *Moving On ABC project, discussing its goals and support strategies. The session encouraged meaningful discussions on survivorship and community support.

Meeting with Dr. Raskhkeerum at Federal Hospital Karachi

Dr. Sehrish Irshad and Ms. Sahiba Khan met with Dr. Raskhkeerum, a Consultant Gynecologist at Federal Hospital Karachi and a breast cancer survivor. Dr. Raskhkeerum agreed to collect data on breast cancer patients visiting her OPD and share it with the PILL team. Additionally, she plans to discuss the details of the Moving on ABC initiative with Dr. Sidra Masoom (Consultant General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) and Dr. Ijaz (Breast Surgeon) and will support in arranging a meeting with them.

Awareness Session in Gadap Town

Yesterday, we held an awareness session in Gadap with a group of about fifteen local women from the community. During the session, we discussed the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, as well as preventive measures. Despite their busy work schedules, they actively participated and shared their concerns. They also assured us that they would spread the message to others. It’s incredibly important to communicate this information in rural villages, as awareness in these areas can significantly improve early detection and prevention, ultimately saving lives and reducing the impact of breast cancer on the community.

Meeting with Dr. Ijaz Masood & Dr. Kamran Babar

Multan TEAM had a meeting with Dr. Ijaz Masood and Dr Kamran Babar, discussed the progress of moving on ABC and the upcoming project ACROSS.

Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan

Dr. Tayyeba Kiran presented the integrated psychosocial care plan for depressed breast cancer survivors Moving on ABC(NIHR205561) at CancerCon’17, held at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). Her presentation focused on the importance of psychosocial support for breast cancer patients across different stages of treatment and survivorship. She also talked about the SMART trial to evaluate adaptive interventions for comorbid depression in breast cancer.

Meeting with Dr. Ahmed Ijaz Masood

Dr. Ahmed Ijaz Masood, renowned Oncologist, President SAARC Oncology Society, Former VC Nishtar Medical University Multan hosted a meeting at his residence over high tea in honor of PILL Multan team, under the leadership of Dr. Azam Tahir, on 8th February 2025. Matters related to Oncology Conference Multan, difficulties in recruitment of patents, modalities to enhance recruitment facilitation were discussed. Dr. ijaz extended marvelous support and cooperation on immediate basis. On behalf of PILL, hospitality and support of Dr. Ijaz is indeed appreciated.

Community Engagement Event in Lahore

The Lahore PILL team organized a community engagement event focused on mental health of burn survivors, early psychosis patients, and breast cancer survivors. Team also identified potential participants with Autism. This initiative aimed to offer support, resources, and hope to those affected.

The community expressed gratitude for the provision of basic health facilities, particularly the mental health awareness outreach in their community settings.

Health Camp at Union Council in Rawalpindi

The Rawalpindi team successfully organized a Health Camp at the Union Council Dhok Hassu in Rawalpindi. Over 80 people attended the event from the community. During the camp, six potential participants were identified for the Moving on ABC program, and two Community Health Workers were recognized for possible support. A medical doctor provided check-ups, and free services included blood pressure and diabetes testing, as well as free medication.

The community expressed gratitude for the provision of basic health facilities, particularly the mental health awareness outreach in their community settings.

Meeting with Stakeholder Husain Rashid

Meeting at Nai zindagi NGO with Stakeholder Husain Rashid for Moving on ABC we discussed referral pathways of the community

PILL team met with the Director General and team at INOR Abbottabad

PILL team met with the Director General and team at INOR Abbottabad to discuss the Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low-Resource Settings (NIHR205561). This collaboration aims to support the world’s largest trial of adaptive interventions for depression in breast cancer survivors.

PILL team met with the Director General and team at Ayub Teaching Hospital

PILL team met with the Director General and team at Ayub Teaching Hospital, a leading healthcare institution in the region known for its comprehensive medical and surgical services. Discussions focused on the Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low-Resource Settings (NIHR205561).
This collaboration is part of the world’s largest trial of adaptive interventions for depression in breast cancer survivors, aiming to enhance psychosocial support and improve patient outcomes.

Workstream 6 Meeting

During Works-stream 6 meeting for Moving on ABC Plus programme, Atta Ur Rehman talked about impact of awareness roadshow during October and November 2024 across Pakistan

Workstream 6 Meeting

During Works-stream 6 meeting for Moving on ABC Plus programme, Dr Silsila Associate Programme Director talked about antidepressant choice in management of comorbid depression in breast cancer survivors

3rd Investigators’ Meeting of Moving on ABC

Meeting with The Minister of Health, AJ&K

PILL team met with the Minister of Health, AJ&K, Dr. Nisar Ansar Abdali, today in Muzaffarabad. During the meeting, the team presented PILL’s ongoing projects and overall contributions to mental health and well-being. Dr. Abdali expressed keen interest in PILL’s initiatives and extended his full cooperation.
In a significant development, the Health Department of AJ&K has committed to providing space for PILL offices in Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, and Mirpur. This collaboration is expected to strengthen mental health services and outreach in the region.

Rawalpindi Team Participated in the Pink Fest

The PILL Rawalpindi team participated in the Pink Fest in collaboration with the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS). They organized a “Counseling and Support” stall for breast cancer patients, where the trained PILL team offered their services to visitors. Many participants also provided their consent to be contacted for future involvement in the “Moving on After Breast Cancer” (NIHR205561) project.

Meeting with CEO & Administration of Rehman Medical Institute

The PILL team had an excellent meeting with the CEO and administration of Rehman Medical Institute (RMI), Peshawar. RMI is a state-of-the-art medical institute offering a wide range of specialties in the medical field. It is the only medical institute in the region with an established Clinical Research Trial Unit, setting it apart as a leader in healthcare innovation and research.

The meeting focused on collaboration for the NIHR-funded project, “Moving on After Breast Cancer” (NIHR205561). The RMI administration appreciated PILL’s efforts, warmly welcomed the initiative, and expressed their interest in formalizing the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support and advance this significant cause.

Meeting with Dr. Akif Ullah Khan (Tamgh-e-Imtiaz)

PILL team had a productive meeting with Dr. Akif Ullah Khan (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz) Director of the Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (IRNUM) Hospital and Chairman of the IRNUM Patient Welfare Society. The discussion focused on fostering support and collaboration for the NIHR-funded”Moving on After Breast Cancer” project (NIHR205561).
IRNUM, renowned as the largest cancer hospital in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, plays a vital role in providing advanced cancer care to patients from the region and across the border.
During the meeting, Dr. Akif Ullah Khan extended a warm welcome to the PILL team and expressed his commitment to supporting this significant initiative, emphasizing its importance in improving the quality of life for breast cancer survivors.

Day 4 Highlights – 10th Global Capacity Building Programme, Dubai

The day featured a focused session on Risk Assessment, led by Dr. Rakhshi Memon, followed by workstream leads identifying potential risks and mitigation strategies for their respective areas. Additionally, Dr. Tayyeba Kiran presented the Trial Delivery Manual, sparking productive discussions on implementation.

10th Global Capacity and Capability Building Programme, Dubai

The third day featured an engaging Planning and Review Session, focusing on all workstreams of NIHR Funded Project (NIHR 205561) Moving on After Breast Cancer Plus Programme. Key discussions included Clinical and Cost-Effectiveness of Adaptive Interventions, Co-Development, Scale-up, and Sustainability, Community and Social Media Campaign, Economic Impact of Mental Health, Policy Engagement, Capacity Building in Research and Practice and Breast Cancer Registry Setup

The day ended with a collective discussion on the way forward for impactful implementation.

A Productive Meeting Co-Chaired by Dr. Tayyeba Kiran & Prof Zia ul Haq

PILL Peshawar Team Held a productive meeting co-chaired by Dr. Tayyeba Kiran and Prof. Zia Ul Haq, Vice Chancellor of Khyber Medical University. The discussion focused on the planning and progress review of the Moving on ABC project in KPK. Additionally, strategic planning and mapping were conducted to ensure optimal outcomes.

Global Mental Health Expert Leads Session on Developing Delivery Manual for SMART Trial

Prof Nusrat Husain, Director Global Mental Health, University of Manchester, co-application and workstream lead on the NIHR RIGHT 6 funded project “Integrated Psychosocial Care Plan for Comorbid Depression in Breast Cancer Patients in Low Resources Settings” (NIHR205561), conducted an interactive one – day session with research team to provide guidance on developing a “step by step” delivery manual for SMART trial. The session was co-facilitated by Prof Mowadat H Rana, consultant psychiatrist, and Dr Aneela Maqsood, lead center for research on suicide prevention, Fatima Jinnah Women University.

Innovating Health Solutions: PILL Presents at Shaukat Khanum Hospital Seminar

An e-poster competition took place at a seminar organized by Shaukat Khanum Hospital at PC Hotel Lahore. Mr. Suleman Shakoor, representing the Health Economics group of PILL, presented a poster on the burden of oral cancer in Pakistan. The event highlighted significant health challenges and fostered discussion on innovative solutions.