Africa records over 24,000 new cancer cases every year, with Ghana’s Korle Bu Teaching Hospital documenting approximately 700 cases annually since 2005. This was revealed by Dr Hannah Naa Gogwe Ayettey, a Consultant Oncologist at the facility, during a symposium focused on advancing cancer research across the continent.
Held under the theme “Catalysing Basic and Translational Cancer in Africa: Advancing Progress and Capacity Building,” the event was organised by the Precision Medicine for Aggressive Breast Cancers (PMABC) in collaboration with the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC).
Dr Ayettey, who is also the General Secretary of AORTIC, emphasised that while genetics play a role in cancer prevalence in Africa, socio-economic hardship and costly treatment options make care inaccessible for many. “The mission of PMABC is to build the capacity of institutions and researchers across Sub-Saharan Africa to help reduce the cancer burden through advanced research and delivery of care to diverse populations worldwide,” she explained.
She encouraged patients to seek prompt medical attention and advocated for greater awareness to support early detection and community involvement in cancer care.
President of AORTIC, Dr Miriam Mutebe, echoed this sentiment. “Many cancer patients are potentially treatable and curable if diagnosed earlier,” she said. “Breast cancer is the most common diagnosis affecting young women in West Africa, but about 90 percent of the patients survive due to early detection.”
The symposium gathered experts and researchers from across Africa to address high-burden cancers such as breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, and oesophageal cancers, with a focus on tailored interventions and collaborative scientific efforts.
