Mozambique: Treating Kaposi sarcoma in Maputo

Kaposi sarcoma is the most common cancer affecting people living with advanced HIV (also known as AIDS), and a major cause of suffering and death. The disease, which can be difficult to properly diagnose, causes painful lesions and swelling around the body which can become disfiguring and foul smelling and thus a source of shame for the patient. Traditional chemotherapy treatment is lengthy, toxic and often less successful. Families and communities often struggle to accept the fragile condition of those living with Kaposi sarcoma, who become socially isolated and often fall into depression.

In Mozambique, high rates of Kaposi sarcoma are found among people living with AIDS. MSF has been supporting the Ministry of Health to provide free specialized HIV and TB care for patients who arrive with AIDS-related complications at the Alto Mae Reference Center (CRAM) in Maputo. This includes the treatment of patients with Kaposi sarcoma.

In 2016, MSF has introduced a newer drug called pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD), which is the standard first line treatment for Kaposi sarcoma in high-income countries. This treatment is more effective and provides a better life quality for patients than the older chemotherapy treatment provided by the Health Ministry. Unfortunately, PLD remains an expensive drug, particularly in less resourced settings. In Mozambique, PLD is not yet included in national guidelines as first line treatment, an essential pre-requisite to wider offer.

Newer treatments for Kaposi sarcoma should be made available and affordable for all those in need, and for this, funding and drug availability is essential.

In Mozambique, high rates of Kaposi sarcoma are found among people living with advanced stages of HIV disease. MSF has been supporting the Ministry of Health to provide specialized HIV and TB care for patients presenting with AIDS-related complications at the Alto Mae Reference Center (CRAM) in Maputo. This includes the treatment of patients with Kaposi sarcoma.

In 2016, MSF has introduced a newer drug called pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD), which is the standard first line treatment for Kaposi sarcoma in high-income countries. This treatment is more effective and provides a better life quality for patients than the older chemotherapy treatment. Unfortunately, PLD remains an expensive drug, particularly in less resourced settings and, in addition to specialised care, this remains a key barrier for the majority of those living with Kaposi sarcoma in Mozambique.

Newer treatments for Kaposi sarcoma should be made available and affordable for all those in need, and for this, drug availability and funding is essential.

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