Urgent Call for Enhanced Breast Cancer Africa Control Measures

The article from the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, titled “Urgent action needed to reinforce breast cancer control measures in Africa: WHO report,” highlights critical issues and recommendations regarding breast cancer in Africa. This report brings attention to the urgent need for improved control measures to combat the rising burden of the disease across the continent.

Breast Cancer Burden

The report estimates that if current trends continue, approximately 135,000 women in sub-Saharan Africa could lose their lives to breast cancer by 2040. The WHO study assessed breast cancer control capacities in 42 out of the 47 countries in the African region. It focused on six vital areas: leadership, governance and financing, health workforce, health information systems, and service delivery. Africa faces significant gaps and disparities in breast cancer control, with critical challenges affecting prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. A severe shortage of healthcare workers limits essential services, while access to specialised cancer centers remains inadequate. Only 5 out of 47 countries have organised breast cancer screening programs, forcing most to rely on opportunistic screening. Pathology services are also insufficient, with only two countries meeting the standard of one laboratory per 100,000 people. These gaps hinder early detection and effective treatment, contributing to high mortality rates.

Drivers of Breast Cancer-Related Deaths

Late diagnoses and poor prevention efforts drive high breast cancer mortality. In 2022, Africa recorded 38 new cases and 19 deaths per 100,000 women. The report calls for urgent investments in leadership, governance, and financing to improve breast cancer care. Countries must develop and fund National Cancer Control Plans for coordinated action. Expanding oncology training is crucial to address the severe shortage of cancer professionals. Organised screening and early diagnosis programs must be accessible to all women, as early detection greatly improves survival rates. A multi-faceted approach is essential to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, train more professionals, and ensure equitable access to life-saving services.