In commemoration of World Cancer Day 2025, global biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca has reinforced its dedication to advancing early detection, innovative treatments, and holistic patient care. Under this year’s theme, “United by Unique,” the company is focusing on patient-centered solutions and collaborative efforts to improve cancer outcomes worldwide. With cancer remaining a leading cause of death globally, AstraZeneca is intensifying its focus on early detection, patient advocacy, and equitable access to life-saving treatments.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), cancer mortality in sub-Saharan Africa is projected to nearly double by 2030 due to delayed diagnoses and limited access to care.
To address these challenges, AstraZeneca has launched Connect to Care, a programme developed with Axios International and key medical associations. This initiative fosters multidisciplinary collaboration to accelerate lung cancer diagnosis and improve patient outcomes.
Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, highlighted the significance of these initiatives: “Our mission at AstraZeneca is to bridge the gap in cancer care. By improving access to diagnostics and treatments, we aim to transform cancer outcomes on the continent. Early detection is crucial, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference for patients,” Arora said.
AstraZeneca is investing in molecular testing infrastructure across Africa, particularly in Nigeria and Kenya. Collaborating with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Kenya and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health, the company is introducing advanced diagnostics such as EGFR testing for lung cancer. Additionally, AstraZeneca’s diagnostic patient navigation programme is streamlining the journey from suspicion to diagnosis, ensuring efficient specimen handling for critical testing. In South Africa, AstraZeneca has partnered with Medsol AI Solutions to launch Project Flamingo, an AI-driven healthcare innovation designed to enhance early breast cancer detection in underserved communities.
This AI-powered app has demonstrated 97.6 per cent accuracy in predicting malignancies, reducing diagnostic delays, and easing pressure on public health systems. Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director at AstraZeneca, emphasized the company’s commitment to advancing oncology care through cutting-edge solutions. “By leveraging AI technology, precision diagnostics, and strategic partnerships, we aim to empower both patients and healthcare providers. On this World Cancer Day, we honour each patient’s unique journey and reaffirm our dedication to delivering meaningful care,” Mashilane said. Through the Cancer Care Africa programme, AstraZeneca is working alongside key partners, including Kenya’s Ministry of Health, KESHO, Axios, and NCI, to strengthen cancer care capacity, enhance diagnostics, and improve access to advanced treatments.
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The company has also supported the availability of ultrasound biopsy machines for prostate cancer and biomarker testing technology for lung cancer, while investing in healthcare professional training to build a more skilled oncology workforce.
As World Cancer Day 2025 highlights the uniqueness of each patient’s cancer journey, AstraZeneca remains committed to prioritizing patients in innovation and treatment.
By championing early detection, advanced therapies, and equitable healthcare, the company continues to drive meaningful progress in oncology, inspiring hope and transformative outcomes worldwide.
