In March 2025, Zorana Maravic, visited Mexico as a Special Advisor of the Global Colon Cancer Alliance (GCCA) to support a mentorship program with FUTEJE. The visit aimed to strengthen FUTEJE’s initiatives to further improve outcomes for colorectal cancer (CRC) patients across the country. Zorana expressed deep gratitude for the warm hospitality she received and was inspired by the energy and dedication of the entire FUTEJE team.

The program started with a visit to a major public hospital in Mexico City, Hospital Juarez de Mexico, where a team of healthcare professionals presented the latest data on CRC diagnosis and treatment. The discussions emphasised the critical importance of early detection through FIT testing and colonoscopy, as well as the collective commitment to continue advancing screening programs.

Later that day, a meeting with a leading ostomy care company highlighted another essential aspect of patient support. In Mexico, there are an estimated 180,000 ostomy patients, many of whom struggle to afford necessary supplies. The company expressed strong interest in supporting FUTEJE’s work to improve access and patient care.

The next day, Zorana participated in an educational event at a major university campus, FES UNAM IZTACALA, attended by a large number of enthusiastic medical students both in-person and online. The event focused on CRC research, prevention, and patient care. It was inspiring to witness the growing interest among young future healthcare professionals and researchers, as well as their commitment to advancing knowledge in digestive cancers.

Throughout the week, Zorana met with various pharmaceutical and healthcare companies that are already strong allies of FUTEJE. These meetings confirmed their willingness to provide ongoing support for public education campaigns, promote early detection, and work together to raise CRC as a healthcare priority in Mexico.

A particularly emotional highlight of the visit was participating in FUTEJE’s 4th Race Against Colorectal Cancer, where patients, caregivers, volunteers, and supporters came together in a vibrant, energetic event. Several patients undergoing active treatment joined the race, with one participant celebrating the completion of chemotherapy by running the event. It was a powerful moment that demonstrated the strength and unity of the CRC community.

The visit also included a medical session at one of Mexico’s leading hospitals, the launch of an important new patient and caregiver guide for CRC, and meetings with national oncology organisations (SmeO). These collaborations focused on strengthening education for primary and secondary healthcare professionals and pushing for national guidelines and policy changes to prioritise early CRC detection.

Reflecting on the visit, Zorana shared, “It has been an honour to work alongside FUTEJE. Their tireless efforts and passionate commitment are truly inspiring. I am hopeful that, through continued collaboration, we can make a real difference in improving early detection rates and outcomes for CRC patients in Mexico.”

Digestive Cancers Europe is proud to work together to ensure that every patient, no matter where they live, has a better chance at early diagnosis, effective treatment, and a brighter future.

Author:

Zorana Maravic