An Overview of the current state of cancer diagnosis and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa

Background: Cancer incidence and mortality are increasing rapidly in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), with 801,392 new cases and 520,158 deaths reported in 2020. Despite global advancements in oncology, SSA faces critical challenges in timely diagnosis, treatment access, and workforce capacity. Objective: This review synthesises recent evidence on cancer diagnosis and treatment in SSA, highlighting epidemiological patterns, infrastructural gaps, systemic barriers, and emerging innovations. Methods: A narrative review of literature published over the past 10 years (2015–2025) was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and African Journals Online. Data from GLOBOCAN, WHO, and regional studies were integrated, with emphasis on diagnostic modalities, treatment capacity, and national initiatives. Results: Most cancers in SSA present at advanced stages (>70–90%) due to limited screening, delayed referrals, and cultural barriers. Radiotherapy infrastructure is critically inadequate, with only 24.4% of the population living within 2 hours of a facility, and chemotherapy availability is hindered by cost and supply chain weaknesses. Workforce shortages, lack of universal health coverage, and poor cancer registry data exacerbate these challenges. However, progress is noted in hypo-fractionated radiotherapy adoption, expansion of regional cancer centres, and public-private partnerships. AI-assisted diagnostics and mobile oncology initiatives show promise but remain nascent. Conclusion: Cancer care in SSA is characterised by late-stage diagnosis, under-resourced treatment services, and systemic inequities. Strengthening cancer registries, scaling diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, adopting cost-effective therapies, expanding workforce training, and fostering research collaborations are critical to improving outcomes.