Local clinical trials can change trajectory of cancer in Africa

Participants during celebrations to mark World Cancer Day. [File, Standard]

The World Cancer Day 2026 theme 'United by Unique' calls on us to place people, not diseases, at the centre of cancer care. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), this call is especially urgent. Cancer mortality remains unacceptably high, and behind every statistic is a life cut short by late diagnosis, limited access to treatment, and a lack of locally relevant evidence. Ethically conducted and locally led clinical trials offer one of the most powerful tools to change this reality.

Cancer is a present and growing crisis for Africa, requiring comprehensive, multi-sectoral efforts to prevent, detect, and manage its burden. As populations grow and age, cancer incidences are rising sharply and survival rates in sub-Saharan Africa are lagging far behind those in high-income countries.