EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: ‘Fighting cancer knows no borders': French oncologist backs Egypt–France cancer care partnership - Health - Life & Style

Al-Ahram Weekly

29-06-2025

On a 48-hour mission to Egypt, renowned French haematologist and bone marrow transplant specialist Professor Jean-Henri Bourhis spoke to Ahram Online about the growing alliance between Gustave Roussy—one of Europe's leading cancer centres—and Egyptian institutions, and why cross-border cancer care matters more than ever.
In this interview, conducted shortly before he departed from Cairo on 27 June, Prof. Bourhis reflected on the significance of international partnerships in oncology and the shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality cancer care.
During his visit on 25 and 26 June, he conducted free consultations and medical examinations for patients with leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. The trip formed part of a broader collaboration between France and Egypt, following an agreement signed in April by Egypt's Minister of Health Khaled Abdel Ghaffar and Gustave Roussy CEO Prof. Fabrice Barlesi to establish the French institute's first international oncology centre in Cairo — a project endorsed by Presidents Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and Emmanuel Macron.
Ahram Online (AO): Professor Bourhis, what inspired this visit to Egypt?
Dr Jean-Henri Bourhis (JB): It's part of Gustave Roussy's international mission. Since our founding in 1922, we've believed in a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment. That includes forming meaningful, long-term partnerships with other institutions. Egypt is now one of those key partners.
AO: As part of the Gustave Roussy institution, what does it mean to you, personally, to be part of this collaboration?
JB: In France, we value liberty, equality, and fraternity—and those principles apply to science. We believe in sharing innovation. Cancer doesn't care about borders or languages, so neither should we. This visit reflects that spirit.
I visited two hospitals and met impressive medical teams. Their knowledge, enthusiasm, and professionalism were clear. We discussed complex hematology cases, including multiple myeloma, leukemias, and other conditions.
AO: What is your impression of cancer treatment during the visit?
JB: Very positive. Diagnostic and treatment protocols are well-managed. Egyptian teams are skilled in applying prognostic factors and therapeutic strategies effectively. That's a very solid foundation.
AO: Where do you see the main challenges?
JB: The talent is here; the will is here. However, some factors—such as sterile airflow rooms and air and water treatment systems—require ongoing investment. That's essential for advanced therapies and infection control.
While academic research plays a significant role, much of the innovation also comes from biotech and pharmaceutical companies. These companies are brilliant, but they are driven by profit. So, we need to strike a balance between academic research and corporate-led research to avoid potential pitfalls or limitations.
Clinical research is a key point. The shift must be from 'excellent care' to 'excellent care + clinical research.' That requires standardized treatment protocols, centralized data systems, and a team-wide mindset change. The tools are there, but the framework needs to be structured.
AO: Could this new Gustave Roussy partnership transform cancer care in the region?
JB: Absolutely. This initiative can serve as a model for others to follow. We're not replacing what Egyptian doctors and hospitals are already doing—on the contrary, we're supporting and amplifying it. By building secure patient data systems and treatment pathways, we can improve survival rates. Many children with leukemia may not receive the full treatment or discontinue it due to systemic issues. That's something we must address.
AO: What is the role of AI in your field today?
JB: AI is a powerful tool in both diagnosis and treatment planning. It can detect patterns across imaging, molecular data, and patient history, identifying rare subtypes and predicting responses. In imaging, AI assists radiologists with complex scans. It's exciting and transformative.
AO: Let's talk data. How important is it in cancer care and research?
JB: It's foundational. Without data, there's no research. We need digital, accessible databases to track treatments, responses, and long-term outcomes—not just within one hospital but nationally. Registries help us know what's happening with different types of cancer across the country.
AO: A tough question—what are your top three pieces of advice to avoid cancer?
JB: Avoiding known carcinogens such as tobacco, excessive alcohol, and unhealthy diets is crucial in reducing cancer risk. It's also essential to undergo early screening, particularly for individuals with a family history of cancer, as timely detection can save lives. Lastly, trusting in multidisciplinary care is key—collaboration among doctors from various specialities often leads to the most effective treatment strategies.
AO: Does mental health influence cancer development?
JB: Not directly. However, lifestyle and stress influence behaviour, including diet, sleep, and physical activity, all of which impact overall health. Mental well-being is indirectly related to cancer prevention.
AO: Any final thoughts before you leave?
JB: I'm truly glad about the partnership between our institution and the Egyptian medical community. It's not just a symbolic or virtual link—we're building real connections. Egypt is a key partner for us moving forward. The people here are highly educated, enthusiastic, and full of potential. The country can become a central hub for excellence in cancer care in the region. We hope to support clinical care and help launch more robust clinical research projects.
Egypt's medical network is evolving from strong clinical practice into research excellence—and that's the future.
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