AC3 Workshop Advances Collaborative Efforts to Combat Cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Efforts to combat the growing cancer burden in Kenya received a significant boost last week, as an international consortium of cancer experts convened in Nairobi to call for increased global attention and research funding, particularly in resource-constrained settings across Africa.

On 5th, December 2024, the Africa Caribbean Cancer Consortium (AC3) held a pivotal workshop aimed at amplifying local, regional, and international efforts to address the devastating impact of cancer.

AC3, a multidisciplinary alliance of cancer researchers from the United States, the Caribbean, and Africa, continues to champion collaborative initiatives in cancer research. Its diverse membership includes leading institutions such as the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the University of Nairobi (UON), Kisii University, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), Kenyatta University, and MP Shah Hospital, among others.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Samuel Gathere, the AC3 Regional Leader for Sub-Saharan Africa, underscored the importance of the workshop. Dr. Gathere, who is also an ENT research scientist from the Institute, described the workshop as “a vital platform for members to exchange insights and strategies” and emphasized the role of cancer registries in enhancing early diagnosis, streamlining treatments, and improving patient outcomes.

The workshop featured robust discussions and presentations from various AC3 working groups, each focusing on specific cancer types, including Head and Neck Cancers, Women’s Cancers, Urological Cancers, and Colorectal Cancers. Participants shared progress reports, highlighted achievements, and pinpointed critical gaps in research and care delivery. Among the significant topics discussed were advancements in data collection, innovative treatments, and public awareness campaigns.

Despite these strides, persistent challenges were brought to light, including limited funding, resource shortages, and inconsistencies in patient care continuity. Strengthening cancer registries emerged as a recurring priority. Comprehensive and accurate registries were identified as essential for tracking disease trends, guiding policy decisions, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources.Despite these strides, persistent challenges were brought to light, including limited funding, resource shortages, and inconsistencies in patient care continuity. Strengthening cancer registries emerged as a recurring priority. Comprehensive and accurate registries were identified as essential for tracking disease trends, guiding policy decisions, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

One of the workshop’s key outcomes was a renewed commitment to improving cancer registries to enhance diagnosis and treatment accessibility. This step is expected to significantly improve patient experiences and outcomes across Kenya and the region.

The event drew prominent figures in cancer research, including AC3 founder and Principal Investigator Prof. Camille Ragin from Fox Chase Cancer Center, USA. She was joined by Dr. Lydia Kaduka, Deputy Director of the Non Communicable Diseases Research Program, and Ann Korir, the Cancer Thematic Lead in the program.

The workshop reaffirmed AC3’s dedication to fostering collaborations, advancing research, and improving cancer care. As the fight against cancer intensifies, such platforms are crucial for uniting researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers to drive meaningful change. The discussions are expected to shape future interventions, paving the way for more effective cancer management and diagnostic solutions in Kenya and beyond.