Palliative care in Salima district

Abstract

On 27th June 2007, Malawi's first dedicated palliative care centre, Ndi Moyo, was officially opened by the Honourable Marjorie Ngaunje, the then Minister of Health. Over 260 patients have registered since August 2006 when they first started to receive treatment for relief of severe and chronic pain which is frequently related to cancer (above 90% are so diagnosed). Most are terminally ill as a result of their cancer, HIV/AIDS and/or other progressive and irreversible conditions. 60% are known to be HIV positive. 40% have died within the 2 year period that the Ndi Moyo Centre has been open, but were helped to live a full life until they died.

Malawi Medical Journal Vol. 20 (4) 2008: pp. 118-119