Welcome
The African Cancer Patient Coalition (ACPC) is dedicated to addressing the unique cancer care challenges across the vast and diverse continent of Africa. With over 50 countries, varying histories, economic development levels, and climates, Africa faces a complex interplay of factors influencing cancer outcomes. From the rising prevalence of cancers like cervical, breast, and prostate, to the inequities faced by rural populations and the compounded effects of climate change, our programs aim to provide equitable, innovative, and sustainable solutions for cancer patients. Below are our key priorities tailored to Africa’s diverse needs.
Access to biomarker testing and precision medicine is extremely limited across most of Africa, with availability concentrated in a few nations such as South Africa and Egypt. This inequity leaves many patients without access to personalized treatments. For example, women with HER2-positive breast cancer in low-income countries often cannot afford biomarker testing or targeted therapies. We advocate for regional collaborations to establish diagnostic hubs, expand the availability of low-cost biomarkers, and leverage partnerships to reduce the cost of precision medicines continent-wide.
Disparities in access to cancer treatment are stark across Africa. Advanced therapies are often available only in urban centers like Nairobi, Lagos, and Johannesburg, leaving rural populations underserved. Many low-income patients face significant out-of-pocket costs or complete lack of access. We propose national and regional programs to expand universal health coverage for cancer care, foster regional manufacturing of essential cancer drugs, and deploy mobile oncology units to underserved and remote areas.
Our Global Cancer Care Equity Index reveals stark disparities in Africa, where workforce shortages are severe with some countries having only one oncologist per 1.6 million people, and over 70% of cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages due to limited screening programs and awareness. These challenges are compounded by financial barriers, with cancer treatment costs often exceeding 300% of average annual income for most families in countries like Uganda.
Early detection and screening programmes
Late-stage diagnosis is a critical issue in Africa, with over 70% of cancers diagnosed at advanced stages. Successful programs, like Rwanda’s HPV vaccination campaign and South Africa’s breast cancer awareness initiatives, show how targeted efforts can make a difference. We advocate for scaling up cervical and breast cancer screening programs, promoting community-based education campaigns, and integrating affordable AI-driven diagnostics for early detection in rural and underserved areas.
Climate change exacerbates cancer care challenges in Africa. Rising temperatures and environmental degradation increase exposure to carcinogens such as aflatoxins in food and polluted water sources, while extreme weather disrupts healthcare delivery. For example, floods in Mozambique have hindered access to treatment for cancer patients in affected areas. We call for climate-resilient healthcare infrastructure, investment in renewable energy for health facilities, and strategies to mitigate environmental cancer risks.
The shortage of trained oncology professionals is severe, with some African countries having only a handful of oncologists serving millions of people. Initiatives such as the African Cancer Institute’s training programs in Kenya and partnerships like Project ECHO in Namibia show promise in addressing this gap. We advocate for scaling up oncology training, incentivizing retention of healthcare workers in rural areas, and expanding telemedicine networks to provide remote consultation and support.
Digital health solutions and AI offer opportunities to bridge gaps in cancer care across Africa. Programs like Uganda’s AI-powered cervical cancer screening and Nigeria’s mobile health apps demonstrate how innovation can improve outcomes. We propose investment in digital infrastructure, training healthcare professionals in AI-driven tools, and ensuring equitable access to these technologies, particularly in underserved regions.
Participation in clinical trials is low in Africa due to limited infrastructure and regulatory barriers. South Africa and Kenya are leading the way in hosting trials, but other regions remain excluded. We support regional harmonization of trial regulations, expanded patient awareness campaigns, and public-private partnerships to bring trials closer to African patients, ensuring representation in global research.
Given the diversity of Africa, regional collaboration is essential to address disparities in cancer care. Initiatives such as the African Union’s Africa CDC and the PACT initiative for cancer care exemplify the potential of partnerships. We advocate for coordinated efforts among governments, NGOs, and the private sector to implement scalable and sustainable solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges.
By focusing on these priorities, the ACPC aims to create a future where innovation reaches all corners of Africa, ensuring that no patient is left behind regardless of geography, economic status, or climate challenges.
