Desenvolvimento de uma aplicação web de crowdfunding para o financiamento do tratamento do cancro: caso de estudo - Associação de Luta Contra o Cancro

Abstract

The research titled “Development of a Web-Based Crowdfunding Application for Cancer Treatment Funding” primarily aims to develop a digital platform to financially support cancer treatment in Mozambique. The specific objectives of the research include studying the prevalence and most common types of cancer in the country, describing the current funding situation for treatment, identifying the challenges faced by the Associação de Luta Contra o Cancro de Moçambique (ALCC), and developing a prototype based on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The findings revealed that the most common types of cancer in Mozambique are breast, cervical, prostate, Kaposi's sarcoma, and liver cancer. The ALCC faces significant challenges, such as the lack of stable financial resources, logistical difficulties in serving patients in rural areas, a shortage of specialized healthcare professionals, and limitations in healthcare infrastructure. Currently, the ALCC relies on donations, government support, and partnerships to fund its programs. To overcome these challenges, the research proposes the development of a web-based crowdfunding application that will enable more effective and transparent fundraising. The platform will include features such as a secure payment system, transparency in the use of raised funds, and social media sharing options. Additionally, the integration of ICTs will facilitate patient management and service coordination, improving the operational efficiency of the ALCC. Recommendations include diversifying funding sources, strengthening healthcare infrastructure, providing continuous training for professionals and volunteers, and increasing awareness efforts on cancer prevention and early diagnosis. The research emphasizes the importance of using technology to extend the reach of fundraising initiatives and improve financial and operational support for cancer treatment in Mozambique. This research contributes to the field of public health by demonstrating how ICTs can be used to address financial and operational challenges in cancer treatment, proposing practical and sustainable solutions that can be applied in similar contexts.