Dear Readers,

Welcome to the inaugural edition of OncoAfrica, a newsletter by The Integrated Cancer Research Foundation (ICRF) of Kenya, a non-profit research company, dedicated to addressing the pressing issue of cancer in Africa. Our mission is collective, aiming to address Kenya’s, and by extension Africa’s cancer burden through cutting-edge research and evidence-based community outreach programs. We can only achieve our mission with everyone’s involvement. Africa’s cancer burden is escalating annually. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported 1.185 million new cancer cases and 763,843 deaths in Africa. The top five ranked cancers by incidence on the continent originate in the breast, cervix/uteri, prostate, liver, and colon/rectum, which collectively contribute to 48.2% of all cancer cases in Africa. While communicable diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis already strain Africa’s healthcare system, the growing cancer burden demands additional strategic and collective investment in public health systems.

Although experiences with cancer vary at both the individual and national level, they are all valid and valuable. OncoAfrica aims to share cancer stories from diverse perspectives including those of African patients, researchers, healthcare professionals, advocacy groups and other stakeholders in the cancer care journey. The vision of OncoAfrica is to become a leading newsletter publication on the continent, by providing a platform that truly represents and understands the complexity of cancer in Africa and emerging advances in scientific research, spanning cancer diagnosis and treatment.

OncoAfrica offers a collection of stories, opinions, editorials, and experiences to empower cancer patients, caregivers, and the public, with knowledge about cancer. Cancer is often silent until it isn’t . Through responsible and relevant partnerships, we anticipate OncoAfrica becoming the go-to resource, a catalyst for change and connection, and a source of hope and inspiration for everyone.

Finally, we extend our gratitude to all the readers and contributors of this newsletter. Credit goes to ICRF Kenya members and scientists who have made this first issue possible. Please accept our best wishes for a productive and successful 2024.