Date: 13th November 2025
Time: 7 PM – 8:30 PM EAT

Speaker
Dr. Riaz Kasmani
Medical Oncologist, Mombasa Cancer Centre
Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Advances, Evidence and Clinical Challenges

Moderator
Dr. Jumaa Bwika
Clinical Assistant Professor & Section Head, Pulmonology, Aga Khan Hospital

Organized by:
KESHO
Kenya Society of Haematology & Oncology

Supported by:
BEACON Medicare Limited
(Global Marketing Partner of BEACON Pharmaceuticals Limited)

Summary:

Dr Kasmani presented an overview of Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), focusing on disease biology, treatment response, relapse patterns and emerging research directions.

SCLC accounts for a minority of lung cancer diagnoses yet contributes disproportionately to cancer-related mortality due to its aggressive behavior, early dissemination and rapid development of treatment resistance. While the disease is initially highly chemo sensitive, with high response rates to first-line therapy, relapse is common and subsequent responses are often short-lived.

The presentation highlighted current staging approaches, standard first-line treatment strategies for limited and extensive-stage disease and the evolving role of chemo-immunotherapy. Emphasis was placed on response assessment, patterns of relapse and the clinical distinction between sensitive and refractory disease, which continues to guide second-line treatment decisions.

Key takeaway: Despite high initial response rates, SCLC remains a challenging disease with frequent relapses, underscoring the need for timely diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and continued investment in research and clinical trials to improve patient outcomes.