BHUTAN CANCER SOCIETY

Bhutan Cancer Society (BCS) is a Public Benefit Organization registered under the Civil Society Organizations Authority (Reg no. CSOA/PBO-337). Bhutan Cancer Society was founded by Ms. Dechen Wangmo, a public health specialist and Dr. Ugyen Tshomo, a Gynae-oncologist in Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. BCS was officially launched by HRH Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck on 4th February 2015 coinciding with World Cancer Day. BCS is the only non-profit organization established for the benefit of cancer patient, caregiver and general population in Bhutan.

We primarily work under the three major pillars: Care and Support for cancer patient and caregivers; Cancer Prevention and Advocacy and Cancer Research. We provide palliative care to the patients as well as the caregivers beginning at diagnosis and continuing through treatment, follow-up-care and the end of life.We supply B-Protein supplement and hygiene kit to JDWNRH oncology ward as a majority of the cancer patients come from poor background. We also support the cancer patients financially which includes transportation allowance and basic amenities.

We work on creating a network of cancer survivors and cancer patients to help create a sense of community and because we feel it is important for peer-support. We have also created a platform where cancer patients can visit our office and share their concerns in full confidentiality and where we try to solve their concerns when needed. Given that cancer treatment is provided only in Thimphu, most patients are in no position to manage accommodation while undergoing treatment in Thimphu. Currently, we are seeking funding to mobilize resource to operate and manage a four-room transit home for patients in Thimphu.