New Partnership Brings BRCA Cancer Genetic Testing Closer to Patients in Kenya's Public Health System

The University of Nairobi's KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR), in partnership with Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), has been awarded a research grant by AstraZeneca to undertake a three-year BRCA1/2 cancer genomics study aimed at expanding access to genetic testing and precision cancer care for Kenyan patients.

The study will enrol 450 patients with triple-negative breast cancer, metastatic prostate cancer, and high-grade serous ovarian cancer receiving care at KNH. Genomic sequencing will be conducted at KAVI-ICR. The project will also strengthen local capacity in cancer genomics, including laboratory systems, data generation, and expertise needed to support future precision oncology research in Kenya.

Cancer remains a major public health challenge in Kenya, with most cases diagnosed at advanced stages. For patients carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, genetic testing can guide treatment decisions, identify eligibility for targeted therapies, inform surgical management, and support screening of family members who may also be at risk. However, access to such testing remains limited within the public health sector. The study will also address an important scientific gap. More than 95% of global BRCA mutation data originates from non-African populations, leaving limited evidence to guide cancer care among African patients. Findings from the project will contribute valuable Kenyan data to the global understanding of cancer genomics. The study is among the first efforts to integrate BRCA testing within a public-sector cancer care setting in Kenya.

Dr Noel Onyango, who leads the Non-Communicable Diseases portfolio at KAVI-ICR, noted:
"Our patients often face significant barriers to accessing genetic testing. This study provides an opportunity to generate local evidence while creating pathways for more informed clinical decision- making and improved patient outcomes."

Dr Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director, AstraZeneca African Cluster, noted that “At AstraZeneca, we recognize the profound need to expand the global understanding of cancer genomics, especially within African populations whose cancer biology is underrepresented in scientific literature. Investing in genomics studies not only advances early detection and innovative treatments, but also empowers local researchers and communities. Our commitment is driven by the conviction that groundbreaking cancer solutions must be inclusive and equitable ensuring that every patient, no matter where they live, has access to the most effective therapies tailored to their genetic profile.”

Dr Marianne Mureithi, Director of KAVI-ICR and the Principal Investigator of the study, emphasized the broader significance of the initiative:

"Precision medicine cannot remain a privilege of geography. This grant is an investment in the future of cancer care in Kenya and in the systems, skills, and evidence needed to ensure that patients have access to more personalized and effective treatment options."

The collaboration between with AstraZeneca represents an important step toward expanding access to precision oncology in Kenya, strengthening local cancer research capacity, and generating African-led evidence that can inform cancer care across the continent.