World Lung Cancer Day, AstraZeneca Highlights contributions to improving outcomes in Africa and the critical Role of early detection.
On World Lung Cancer Day, AstraZeneca showcased its significant contributions to improving lung cancer care in Africa, emphasizing the critical importance of early detection in boosting survival rates.
Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with approximately 2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths each year.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory 2020, the incidence of lung cancer across different regions in Africa is alarming: South Africa (27.5 males, 9.3 females per 100,000), North Africa (19.3 males, 3.5 females), East Africa (4.2 males, 3.0 females), Middle Africa (3.4 males, 1.8 females), and West Africa (2.8 males, 1.8 females).
The situation is exacerbated by late diagnoses and limited access to advanced medical care. In Africa, over 90% of lung cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, resulting in a five-year survival rate of less than 1%.
Early detection through regular screening is essential to improving these dire statistics.
AstraZeneca is committed to advancing lung cancer care through initiatives aimed at prevention, early detection, patient advocacy, and ensuring access to cutting-edge treatments.
One such initiative is the Connect to Care program, developed in collaboration with Axios International, which aims to improve the diagnostic journey for lung cancer patients by ensuring timely and accurate diagnoses.
The program works with local medical associations in countries like Kenya, focusing on multidisciplinary collaboration, which is crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer.
Dr. Deepak Arora, AstraZeneca’s African Cluster Country President, stated, “Our mission is to bridge the gap in lung cancer care across Africa. By improving access to diagnostics and treatments, we aim to transform lung cancer outcomes on the continent. We are dedicated to supporting initiatives that promote early detection and patient advocacy, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to receive timely and effective care.”
AstraZeneca has been actively working to improve lung cancer care across Africa, including initiatives in Kenya and Nigeria to expedite diagnostics and treatment. On this World Lung Cancer Day, AstraZeneca reinforces its commitment to ensuring equitable access to healthcare and reducing the mortality rate associated with this deadly disease.
Source: Communications Officer at AstraZeneca
