By Rachel Quartey
The African Cancer Organisation (ACO) has marked World Cancer Day with a renewed call for governments, institutions and communities across Africa and the diaspora to prioritise cancer prevention as a core public health strategy.
Observing the global campaign under the theme “Close the Care Gap,” ACO says equitable access to cancer information, preventive services and early detection remains critical, particularly for underserved and marginalised populations across the continent.
Cancer incidence continues to rise in Africa, with many cases linked to preventable risk factors and late diagnosis. ACO says shifting the focus toward prevention offers the most effective and sustainable path to saving lives.
“Our vision is clear: prevention must be at the centre of Africa’s cancer response,” said Paul Opoku, Founder and President of the African Cancer Organisation. “Through strong advocacy, capacity development and research, we are building the foundations for a future where fewer people develop cancer and more lives are saved through early detection.”
Prevention at the Heart of ACO’s Vision
ACO’s approach is anchored in empowering individuals and communities with the knowledge, tools and systems needed to make informed health decisions and reduce cancer risk across Africa.
Advocacy, Capacity Development and Research
The organisation’s work is guided by three interconnected strategic pillars:
- Advocacy: Influencing policy, strengthening national cancer control strategies, and promoting increased investment in cancer prevention and early detection.
- Capacity Development: Building the skills of health workers and strengthening institutions to effectively deliver cancer prevention services.
- Research: Generating context-specific evidence to guide interventions, inform policy decisions, and ensure prevention strategies are culturally relevant and effective.
According to ACO, these pillars ensure its programmes remain impactful, scalable and aligned with global best practices.
Spotlight on the ACO Woman Campaign
As part of its World Cancer Day activities, ACO is spotlighting the ACO Woman Campaign, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering women with knowledge and access to preventive services to prevent and downstage cancers at stages where cure is often possible.
The campaign focuses on:
- Increasing awareness of early warning signs of cancer
- Promoting regular screening and HPV vaccination
- Delivering culturally tailored education through community networks
- Strengthening partnerships with health facilities to improve access to preventive services
ACO says the campaign positions women as central agents of change in advancing cancer prevention within families and communities.
ACO Diversity and Cancer Prevention Program
The organisation is also highlighting the ACO Diversity and Cancer Prevention Program, designed to address disparities in cancer risk, awareness and access to preventive services among diverse population groups across Africa and the diaspora.
The programme aims to:
- Understand how cultural, ethnic, socioeconomic and geographic factors influence cancer risk and health-seeking behaviour
- Develop targeted prevention strategies for underserved and marginalised communities
- Promote inclusive health communication that reflects Africa’s cultural and linguistic diversity
- Strengthen partnerships with community leaders, diaspora groups and international institutions to advance equity in cancer prevention and resource mobilisation
ACO says the initiative reinforces its commitment to ensuring no community is left behind in the fight against cancer.
Call to Action
Marking World Cancer Day, ACO is calling on governments, civil society organisations, healthcare providers and international partners to intensify investment in cancer prevention and early detection. Individuals are also encouraged to adopt healthy lifestyles, seek regular screening and support loved ones affected by cancer.
“World Cancer Day is a reminder that progress is possible when we act together,” Opoku added. “By prioritising prevention today, we protect the health and future of generations across Africa and beyond.”
