Hematology & Oncology Society of Uganda (HOSU) Ltd

Cancer and blood disorders represent major public health challenges in Uganda, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality rates. The Hematology & Oncology Society of Uganda (HOSU) aims to tackle these issues by fostering collaboration, promoting research, enhancing education, and advocating for improved patient care nationwide.

HOSU is a professional association that brings together hematologists, oncologists, researchers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with cancer and blood disorders.

The creation of HOSU was essential for several reasons:(a) The increasing burden of cancer in Uganda necessitates a specialised body capable of guiding and supporting efforts to control these diseases.(b) There is a shortage of professional expertise across nearly all cadres in hematology and oncology, leading to delayed diagnoses, suboptimal treatment, and poor patient outcomes.(c) Significant research and data gaps concerning local hematologic and oncologic conditions hinder the development of context-specific treatment guidelines.

HOSU’s main objectives are as follows:

1. To promote professional development through continuous education, training workshops, and conferences.

2. To foster research and support initiatives that address the specific challenges of hematologic and oncologic care in Uganda, thereby contributing to global knowledge.

3. To improve patient care by developing and disseminating evidence-based guidelines and best practices for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of these conditions.

4. To advocate for better policies by engaging with policymakers, healthcare institutions, and international bodies to improve access to care and increase funding for cancer and blood disease control.

5. To facilitate collaboration among healthcare professionals and institutions to strengthen joint initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for patients affected by cancer and blood disorders.