Dr. Ziyad El Ahwal: How real-world evidence is reshaping the patient journey and redefining progress

Cairo 09 Jul 2025:

The idea that better data leads to better decisions is often repeated, so much so it risks sounding like a cliché. But like many clichés, it’s grounded in truth.This means building systems that can turn numbers into clear stories, and dashboards into actionable guidance.

It means equipping decision-makers not just with reports, but with the ability to truly interpret what those reports are showing them.

And most importantly, it means using those insights to shape public health policy, sharpen clinical interventions, and ultimately, improve patients’ lives in tangible ways.

But the real challenge isn’t simply gathering more data; it’s putting it to work and how to actually use it, and this is what we discussed at the Africa Health ExCon this year where we had the privilege of joining a panel titled “From Data to Decisions – Building a Strong Foundation for Healthcare.

” One key takeaway from these discussions is this: while accumulating more data is a start, the exciting opportunity lies in making that data truly actionable to transform healthcare.

This isn’t just about technology; it’s a powerful opportunity that calls for fostering a data-driven culture, building strong institutional frameworks, and empowering the people who will leverage these insights.

Let’s be clear: this is where trust plays a key role and for trust we need collaboration. As a company, we don’t seek data access; we seek to enable value creation through public private partnerships. This approach aligns with Egypt’s evolving healthcare 2030 vision.

We are working with national partners to do just that. Examples include our collaboration on the digital transformation of the Egyptian Healthcare Authority and our partnership with the Ministry of Health and Population to improve data quality within Egypt’s oncology presidential initiatives.

Moreover, high-quality cancer registries can improve treatment protocols, enable early detection, and generate the kind of real-world evidence that’s often missing from traditional clinical trials.

That evidence can then shape more inclusive, data-informed care pathways that reflect the realities of the people we serve.

At Roche, we see ourselves not only as a pharmaceutical company but as a long-term partner in shaping this future. Through innovation, through technology, and a deep belief in the value of partnership, we remain committed to addressing the challenges that matter most: improving early detection, addressing diseases with the highest societal burden and ensuring the health system is equipped to serve every patient, every time, with clarity, care, and confidence.

By Dr. Ziyad El Ahwal, Market Access, Governmental Affairs & Policy Head at Roche

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