In recognition of World Cancer Day 2025, AstraZeneca has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing early detection, innovative treatments, and holistic patient care.
With cancer remaining a leading global cause of death, AstraZeneca has launched several initiatives to bridge critical gaps in cancer care. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that cancer mortality in sub-Saharan Africa could nearly double by 2030 due to delayed diagnoses and limited access to care. AstraZeneca is working alongside healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and government institutions to combat these challenges and improve outcomes.
“Our mission at AstraZeneca is to bridge the gap in cancer care,” said Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca. “By improving access to diagnostics and treatments, we aim to transform the landscape of cancer outcomes on the continent. Early detection plays a critical role in improving survival outcomes, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference for patients.”
Under this year’s theme, “United by Unique,” the global biopharmaceutical company is emphasizing the importance of patient-centered care, innovative approaches, and collaboration in transforming cancer treatment outcomes.
Among AstraZeneca’s major initiatives is the Connect to Care program, developed in collaboration with Axios International and key medical associations. The program fosters multidisciplinary collaboration to accelerate lung cancer diagnosis and improve patient outcomes.
In addition, AstraZeneca is enhancing molecular testing infrastructure in Nigeria and Kenya, working with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health to introduce advanced diagnostics such as EGFR testing for lung cancer. The company has also established a diagnostic patient navigation programme that streamlines 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 that enables real-time breast ultrasound scans and predictive analysis to enhance early breast cancer detection in underserved communities. The AI-powered app has demonstrated a 97.6percent accuracy rate in predicting malignancies, supporting early detection efforts and alleviating pressure on public health systems.
“We are committed to advancing innovation in oncology care through early detection and precision diagnostics,” said Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director at AstraZeneca. “By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, developing patient-centered solutions, and fostering meaningful partnerships, we aim to empower patients and healthcare providers to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life. On this World Cancer Day, we honor every patient’s unique journey and reaffirm our dedication to advancing science and delivering meaningful care.”
AstraZeneca’s Cancer Care Africa programme underscores the company’s commitment to holistic and equitable healthcare. Launched in Kenya in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, KESHO, Axios, and the National Cancer Institute (NCI), the initiative strengthens healthcare capacity, enhances diagnostics, empowers patients, and expands access to advanced cancer treatments.
As part of its broader strategy, AstraZeneca has supported the availability of diagnostic tools, including ultrasound biopsy machines for prostate cancer and biomarker testing technology for lung cancer, while also facilitating training for healthcare professionals to build a more skilled oncology workforce.
World Cancer Day 2025 highlights the uniqueness of every individual’s cancer journey while promoting a united effort to enhance care.
