Miriam Mutebi: Beyond Breast Cancer – The Need for More Investment
Miriam Mutebi, Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“As we step into a new month approaching International Women’s Day (IWD), I can’t help but highlight the critical role of funding in transforming breast cancer research and outcomes in Africa.
In Kenya, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, with an annual incidence of approximately 7,248 new cases and 3,398 cancer-related deaths (Global Cancer Observatory, 2022).
Notably, Kenya, like many parts of Africa, has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates globally—with many women unlikely to survive beyond five years due to delays in their initial diagnosis.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Investments in breast cancer care and research have led to significant advancements:
- Early Detection Initiatives: The Kenya Breast Cancer Screening and Early Diagnosis Action Plan (2021-2025) is strengthening early detection efforts—crucial for improving survival rates.
- Improved Treatment Access: Funding has facilitated the establishment of county-level chemotherapy centers and decentralized radiotherapy services, making life-saving treatments more accessible.
Health Systems Research: The NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE OF KENYA (NCI-K), in collaboration with partners like the Kenya Society of Haematology & Oncology (KESHO) and Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), is leading critical research to improve cancer care delivery.
Beyond Breast Cancer: The Need for More Investment
The NCI-K, has ringfenced funding from the national research fund to support efforts in research along the cancer care continuum. While this is promising, more investment is urgently needed to advance research and improve patient outcomes.
At AORTIC- Africa, we know that cancer research in Africa contributes to less than 8% of the global output, and less than 2% of clinical trials occur in Africa, meaning our unique challenges often remain unaddressed.
Additionally, since we are not the primary funders of our own research, our priorities don’t always align with the most pressing needs on the ground.
But as Nelson Mandela said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
→ This month, I’m advocating for more investment in African-led breast cancer research—and inviting you to join me.
Why?
Because every woman deserves a fighting chance.
Are you with me?”
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