#8: Cancer in Africa: The Dual Burden of Disease

This solocast episode dives into the dual burden of disease and its intersection with cancers in Africa. Across the African continent life expectancies are increasing. Advancements in primary care, strengthening of public health care systems and access to vital medical treatments have resulted in longer, healthier lives across the continent over the past few decades. Nonetheless, living longer makes one susceptible to acquiring an array of non-communicable diseases associated with longer life. The dual-burden of disease concept deals with the phenomenon of more and more emerging economies dealing with a combination of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and malaria alongside the rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. This paradigm and its many nuances are demonstrated through a story. Thelma, a fictional character from Tanzania, illustrates the multi-faceted challenges faced by individuals dealing with both infectious and non-communicable diseases that typify the dual-burden of disease issue. And the story weaves itself through the episode.Discussing the rising cancer burden in Africa, emphasizing the significance of comprehensive cancer prevention and early detection programs we also addresses the increasing adoption of unhealthy lifestyles and their role in elevating cancer risks. And the insufficient access to cancer treatments that exists in too many parts of the continent due to financial constraints and inadequate healthcare systems as a critical challenge. Efforts to improve access and provide palliative care are explored, along with the role of research and innovation in addressing Africa's unique cancer challenges. Touching upon the importance of vaccination initiatives, government programs, and specialized treatment centers in addressing cancer. We underscore the need for investment in cancer research, local production of medical products, and the strengthening of biomanufacturing infrastructure to enhance healthcare accessibility as well as safe and reliable supply chains for Africa. The episode aims to spark awareness and conversations about the importance of targeted interventions, healthcare access, education, and research to address this complex public health issue.Resources:Sign up to the Fortnightly Newsletter on Global Health ConversationsWorld Humanitarian Day https://www.un.org/en/observances/humanitarian-dayRelevant blog articles: The Basics: The Paradox of the Dual Burden – NCDs and CDs (2016) Seven lessons I learned from Professor Hans Rosling: A Tribute (2017)Challenges Facing the South African Pharmaceutical Industry (2017)Other resources: World Cancer Research Fund. (2020). Cancer statistics for Africa.International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2018). Cancer in Africa: Epidemiology and Prevention.Contact: [email protected] the show