Date: 30th September 2024 | Issue #2
Cancer genomics research has significantly transformed our understanding and treatment of cancer, leading to the development of targeted therapies and advancements in precision medicine. However, these studies have predominantly focused on individuals of European ancestry, with those of African descent being largely underrepresented. This disparity has created a significant gap in research and development of cancer treatments that are effective for individuals of African ancestry. Addressing this lack of ethnic diversity in cancer genomics is crucial to providing precision treatments for all populations. In this context, we selected Kenya as a case study, to understand the barriers that impede cancer genomic research and data sharing within an African population. Our objective is to provide recommendations that could help to overcome these challenges, thereby facilitating the acceleration of cancer genomics research in Kenya, and across the African continent.
To identify these barriers and formulate recommendations, we organized ‘The Cancer Genomic Data Sharing Stakeholder Conference’, on 20th June at the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom. This conference brought together experts from diverse fields across Kenya, South Africa, and the UK to exchange knowledge on cancer genomics data sharing and its potential to drive innovation in cancer research, diagnosis and treatment.
The conference aimed to:
The program covered a wide range of topics, including the role of genomics in cancer treatment and health innovations, technical infrastructure and institutional partnerships, as well as the policy, legal and ethical frameworks necessary to establish a robust and sustainable cancer genomic data-sharing ecosystem.
The primary challenges identified as barriers to cancer genomics research in Kenya include:
During the conference stakeholders proposed several recommendations to increase the number of genomic studies conducted in Kenya:
Adopting these recommendations is anticipated to significantly enhance cancer genomics research in Kenya, leading to the generation of substantial amounts of data. This data needs to be efficiently stored, managed, and utilized to foster innovation in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care. Consequently, there is a strong argument for establishing a Kenyan and African cancer genomics database, which would be a vital tool in advancing our understanding of cancer progression and treatment within African populations. By enabling personalized medicine, advancing research initiatives, and promoting international collaboration, such a database has the potential to markedly improve patient outcomes and contribute to the global battle against cancer.
Dr. Fiona Okonjo is the Head of Research Division at the Integrated Cancer Research Foundation and a scientist at NanoSyrinx Ltd.