Government, private sector linked
By linking governments, the private sector, academia and civil society, programmes like Cancer Care Africa (CCA) are helping close the cancer care gap across the continent. In Sub Saharan Africa, CCA has helped grant access to a new lung cancer treatment and build diagnostic infrastructure, including the first EGFR testing facilities in Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Ivory Coast. Meanwhile, in Egypt, the programme has screened tens of thousands connecting more patients to care pathways.
By enhancing health systems through capacity building, screening, diagnostics and affordable treatment models, the programme is ensuring that more people regardless of their location, receive timely and effective care. This model could help countries make significant strides in the battle against lung cancer, with the potential to be replicated across the Middle East and Africa.
This is an exciting moment in the fight against lung cancer. We have the momentum, and I am confident that our region has the leadership at the highest levels to match it. With the right interventions, World Lung Cancer Day can become more than just symbolic. It can mark real progress in lung health, particularly in our region.
Let’s turn the tide and act now.