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NCCN's Commitment to Cancer Care in Africa

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network® (NCCN®), a coalition of leading cancer centers in the United States, is proud to announce significant strides in enhancing access to cancer care across Sub-Saharan Africa. This pivotal development was highlighted during the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) conference held in Hammamet, Tunisia.

During this biennial event, NCCN, in collaboration with the African Cancer Coalition and the American Cancer Society, introduced new guidelines that outline how cancer treatment frameworks have evolved in this region over recent years. The unveiling of the NCCN Harmonized Guidelines™ for Sub-Saharan Africa, inspired by successful efforts to bolster oncology resources in the area, represents a pivotal moment in the battle against cancer on the continent.

Decreasing Barriers to Cancer Treatment

Recent data presented at the AORTIC Conference revealed a remarkable decrease in the percentage of inaccessible cancer treatment options in Sub-Saharan Africa, which plummeted from 82% in 2017 to an encouraging 54% in 2024. This statistic underscores the importance of continuous collaborative efforts to enhance oncology services in a region that has faced numerous barriers to effective cancer treatment.

The efforts began in earnest back in 2017 when the NCCN Global Program commenced its partnership with entities like the American Cancer Society and the African Cancer Coalition. The introduction of the NCCN Harmonized Guidelines™ has made a substantial impact by providing evidence-based recommendations for the prevention, detection, treatment, and supportive care across almost all cancer types prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa.

These revised guidelines are not merely theoretical; they serve as actionable resources that practitioners rely on for delivering comprehensive cancer care. The guidelines use a color-coding system to distinguish between optimal care for countries with limited resources and practical approaches better suited for resource-constrained settings. This innovative classification helps countries prioritize their healthcare initiatives effectively.

Continued Progress and Future Directions

As of 2019, the NCCN Harmonized Guidelines™ offered expert consensus-driven recommendations covering an extensive array of cancers found within the region. These resources have since transitioned into the NCCN International Adaptations, tailored reference tools similar to those utilized in other parts of the globe. Currently, there are a total of 57 NCCN guidelines specifically catering to Sub-Saharan African nations.

Katy Winckworth-Prejsnar, MPH, Global Program Director at NCCN, emphasized the relentless commitment of health ministries and healthcare providers throughout Sub-Saharan Africa to improve access, build capacity, and implement evidence-based care. "The transition to NCCN Adaptations reflects the progress and reaffirms the many avenues this region is taking towards enhanced cancer care for all," she noted in her presentation at AORTIC.

The advancements hint at a brighter future where access to essential cancer treatments—including imaging, biomarker testing, radiation, and systemic therapies—continues to improve. Winckworth-Prejsnar conveyed deep appreciation to local clinicians, governments, and global partners who have tirelessly worked towards bettering cancer treatment access in the region.

Conclusion

The NCCN adaptations for Sub-Saharan Africa mark a foundational step towards broadening access to vital treatments across the continent. These guidelines are freely available at NCCN.org/adaptations, as well as via the Virtual Library of NCCN Guidelines® App. For additional information regarding other region-specific resources aimed at providers, patients, and caregivers in various languages, visit NCCN.org/global.

As NCCN celebrates its 30-year legacy as a nonprofit alliance dedicated to improving patient care, research, and education in cancer treatment, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to promote high-quality, effective, and equitable cancer care access for all individuals. By setting measurable standards for clinical direction and continuing to adapt to regional needs, NCCN is well-positioned to enhance oncology practices both in Africa and globally.