Breast cancer led to more than $10 billion in lost productivity across seven African countries between 2017 and 2023, according to new research presented at Africa Press Day 2026 in Nairobi. The analysis, conducted by the WifOR Institute and presented at an event hosted by Roche, examined the economic impact of HER2-positive breast cancer, a particularly aggressive subtype that accounts for up to 20% of breast cancer cases in Africa. Researchers assessed mortality and productivity losses in Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, South Africa and Tunisia. The findings show that nearly 90% of the economic losses involved women in their most productive working years, highlighting the broader economic consequences of the disease beyond healthcare costs.
The report also suggested that investment in innovative cancer treatments could deliver major economic benefits. According to the analysis, every $1 invested in advanced breast cancer therapies could generate up to $12.40 in economic returns by helping patients recover and remain active in the workforce. Health experts speaking at the event emphasized the urgent need for earlier screening, improved diagnostics, and stronger healthcare systems across the continent. Currently, about 77% of breast cancer cases in Africa are diagnosed at advanced stages, which significantly reduces survival rates and increases treatment costs. Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women globally, and health advocates say improved access to early detection and modern therapies could dramatically reduce both deaths and the economic burden across African economies.
