In commemoration of World Lung Cancer Day, AstraZeneca has underscored its pivotal role in improving African lung cancer outcomes. It stressed the critical importance of early detection for better health results.
Lung cancer remains the foremost cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with approximately 2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths annually.
The burden is particularly acute in Africa, where late-stage diagnoses and limited access to advanced medical care exacerbate the challenge.
In many African regions, over 90% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, contributing to a dismal five-year survival rate of less than 1%.
AstraZeneca is committed to transforming the landscape of lung cancer care in Africa through prevention, early detection, and patient advocacy initiatives.
The Connect to Care initiative exemplifies this commitment. A collaborative effort with Axios International and local medical associations in Kenya, it aims to improve the diagnostic journey for lung cancer patients through multidisciplinary approaches.
Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, highlighted the company’s mission to bridge gaps in lung cancer care across the continent: “By enhancing access to diagnostics and treatments, we aim to improve lung cancer outcomes in Africa significantly.
Our dedication to initiatives promoting early detection and patient advocacy ensures equitable healthcare access for all.”
AstraZeneca’s Diagnostic Patient Navigation program further supports patients from suspicion to diagnosis, facilitating timely access to diagnostic facilities and empowering patients with essential information.
Notably, initiatives like EGFR testing at Aga Khan University Hospital in Kenya and molecular testing advancements in Nigeria signify critical progress in oncology care and treatment accessibility.
Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director at AstraZeneca, emphasized, “Early detection and precise diagnosis are pivotal in improving lung cancer outcomes.
Our initiatives are designed to streamline diagnostic pathways and enhance patient care, leveraging our expertise to bring advanced capabilities to more regions.”
On World Lung Cancer Day, AstraZeneca reaffirmed its commitment to advancing lung cancer care in Africa through awareness, early detection, and equitable access to advanced treatments.
By fostering collaborative efforts and proactive measures, AstraZeneca aims to reshape the future of lung cancer care, ultimately saving lives across the continent.
