Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in partnership with AstraZeneca has launched an advanced molecular testing platform to enhance lung cancer diagnostics across the country.

The collaboration under AstraZeneca's Cancer Care Africa (CCA) initiative aims to strengthen the diagnostic capabilities in the public sector, providing Kenyan patients with access to cutting-edge technology to facilitate accurate diagnosis of lung cancer.

Deepak Arora, Country President for the African Cluster at AstraZeneca said the new platform will transform diagnostics, closing gaps to enable timely, accurate lung cancer diagnosis and better patient outcomes.

Arora said as November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month globally, attention is drawn to lung cancer as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

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The month-long awareness campaign underscores the urgent need for improved diagnostic solutions in countries where delayed diagnosis due to misinterpretation of symptoms often leads to late-stage detection.

He said the absence of timely interventions across the country frequently results in late-stage diagnosis, due to misdiagnosis of lung cancer for other lung conditions like Tuberculosis

“This new molecular testing platform is set to revolutionise the current diagnostic landscape, addressing critical gaps that have previously hindered effective and timely diagnosis, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients,” said Arora.

While remarking on the programme’s potential impact, Arora said AstraZeneca is committed to working collaboratively with governments, healthcare professionals, and patient communities to create resilient healthcare systems and expand access to innovative cancer treatments for patients across Africa.

“This milestone, launched during Lung Cancer Awareness Month highlights our commitment to bringing science to life, fostering hope for patients, and empowering them in their battle against cancer,” he said.

According to him, with the implementation of this initiative at MTRH, AstraZeneca and MTRH seek to provide equitable access to lung cancer diagnostics, offering every patient the possibility of early intervention.

The platform will enable definitive and accurate diagnosis, supporting a patient-centred approach in cancer care for the people of Kenya.

Dr Phillip Kirwa, Chief Executive Officer at MTRH said the launch is a major advancement for cancer care in the country.

He said at MTRH, they are dedicated to elevating healthcare standards and ensuring that every Kenyan has access to timely and precise diagnostic services.

“This collaboration with AstraZeneca aligns with our mission to deliver accessible and high-quality healthcare to all, particularly in combating life-threatening diseases like lung cancer,” said Dr Kirwa.

The Cancer Care Africa initiative seeks to bridge healthcare disparities in cancer care across the continent by fostering equitable access to advanced diagnostic systems.

The partnership with MTRH represents a shared vision of a sustainable future in healthcare, where early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve the clinical outcomes of lung cancer patients in Kenya.