Aga Khan University, AstraZeneca partner to expand BRCA1/2 cancer testing in Kenya

The high mortality rate is largely due to late diagnosis, limited screening programs, and gaps in treatment infrastructure.

On Friday, 28 November 2025, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi (AKUHN) announced a strategic partnership with AstraZeneca to expand access to BRCA1/2 genetic testing in Kenya.

The initiative aims to strengthen cancer detection and treatment, particularly for breast and ovarian cancers, which are closely linked to mutations in the BRCA genes.

AstraZeneca’s oncology division focuses on advancing cancer research across tumour biology, resistance mechanisms, DNA damage response, and treatment of early-stage and relapsed cancers.

The partnership complements AKUHN’s comprehensive cancer program that offers early detection, advanced diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and palliative care.

According to Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, AstraZeneca Medical Director for Africa, the collaboration is a significant step toward improving equitable, high-quality cancer care.

Prof. Shahin Sayed, Chair of Laboratory Medicine at AKUHN, emphasized that diagnostics are essential for guiding timely treatment and improving patient outcomes.

He added that the partnership will make BRCA1/2 testing more affordable, easing financial barriers for patients who need precision diagnostics.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that repair damaged DNA, and everyone inherits two copies of each gene—one from each parent.

A harmful mutation in either gene greatly increases the risk of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers, often at younger ages.

Those who should consider BRCA testing include 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 cancer, or metastatic prostate cancer.

The results play a critical role in helping specialists choose targeted therapies and allow for earlier detection and preventive interventions, ultimately improving survival outcomes.