Aga Khan University and AstraZeneca Team Up to Expand BRCA1/2 Cancer Testing in Kenya
The initiative is aimed at strengthening cancer detection and treatment, particularly for breast and ovarian cancers, which are closely associated with BRCA gene mutations
By : Mweru Mbugua
Cancer continues to pose a major health challenge in Kenya, accounting for roughly 7% of annual deaths, with an estimated 32,000 fatalities and 44,000 new cases each year. Late diagnosis, limited screening programs, and gaps in treatment infrastructure contribute to the high mortality rate
On Friday, November 28, 2025, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUHN) announced a strategic partnership with pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca to expand access to BRCA1/2 genetic testing in Kenya
The initiative is aimed at strengthening cancer detection and treatment, particularly for breast and ovarian cancers, which are closely associated with BRCA gene mutations
AstraZeneca’s oncology division focuses on advancing cancer research across tumor biology, resistance mechanisms, DNA damage response, and treatment of both early-stage and relapsed cancers
The collaboration complements AKUHN’s comprehensive cancer program, which offers early detection, advanced diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and palliative care
Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, AstraZeneca’s Medical Director for Africa, described the partnership as a significant step toward ensuring equitable access to high-quality cancer care. Prof. Shahin Sayed, Chair of Laboratory Medicine at AKUHN, emphasized that timely diagnostics are critical in guiding treatment and improving patient outcomes
The partnership will make BRCA1/2 testing more affordable, reducing financial barriers for patients requiring precision diagnostics
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BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are responsible for repairing damaged DNA, and inherited mutations in these genes significantly increase the risk of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, often at younger ages
BRCA testing is recommended for individuals with a family history of BRCA mutations, those diagnosed with breast cancer before age 51, and people with a personal or family history of ovarian, pancreatic, male breast, or metastatic prostate cancer
Tests can be done using saliva or blood samples, helping specialists choose targeted therapies and enabling earlier detection and preventive interventions to improve survival rates
