A Landmark Appointment: Move Against Cancer Africa Executive Director Caleb Egwuenu Joins IASLC–Lancet Commission on Lung Cancer

Move Against Cancer Africa | September 2025

Introduction

Move Against Cancer Africa is thrilled to share an epoch-making announcement that marks a significant step forward in our mission to combat cancer, particularly in Africa and other low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Our dedicated CEO, Mr. Caleb Egwuenu, has been appointed as a distinguished Commissioner on the prestigious IASLC–Lancet Commission on Lung Cancer. This global initiative is an alliance of clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and patient advocates, all united by a shared vision: “Reimagining the Future of Lung Cancer Control: Equitable, Innovative, Global.”

Mr. Egwuenu’s appointment to this influential commission is not just a personal honour, but a profound recognition of Move Against Cancer Africa’s relentless efforts and the critical need to amplify African voices in global health discussions.

Why This Commission Matters for Africa and LMICs

Lung cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, with an estimated 2.5 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths in 2022 (GLOBOCAN 2022). While this global burden is immense, the data reveal a shocking inequality: outcomes remain deeply unequal. In many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), the mortality rate for cancer can be up to 70% higher than in high-income nations. The situation is particularly dire in Africa, where a severe lack of data and late-stage diagnoses compounds the rising cancer burden. For instance, in Nigeria, over 90% of lung cancer patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment options are limited. This underscores a pressing need for more effective early detection and equitable access to care. Mr. Egwuenu’s presence on this commission will ensure that these critical imbalances will be at the forefront of global conversations and policy recommendations.

A New Era for Global Cancer Equity

As a Commissioner, Mr. Egwuenu would be deeply committed to ensuring that the unique voices, challenges, and realities of African communities and other LMICs are not just acknowledged but fundamentally integrated into the global recommendations and strategies developed by the Commission. His work will focus on several critical priority areas, directly reflecting the needs on the ground:

Strengthening Early Detection and Screening Capacity: Developing and implementing effective strategies for early detection and screening tailored for resource-limited settings.
Expanding Equitable Access: Advocating for broader and fairer access to essential diagnostics, cutting-edge treatments, and novel therapies.
Reducing Disparities: Addressing and mitigating health disparities linked to socioeconomic status, geographical location, and the capacity of existing health systems.
Advocating for Relevant Research Agendas: Pushing for research initiatives that genuinely reflect the realities of LMICs, including specific epidemiological data, local risk factors, and workforce development needs.
Bridging Evidence and Policy: Translating scientific evidence into actionable and context-appropriate policy solutions that can be effectively implemented in diverse settings.

Conclusion

We at Move Against Cancer Africa are immensely proud of Mr. Egwuenu’s appointment and his unwavering dedication to fostering a future where the prevention, care, and research of lung cancer are not only innovative and global but, most importantly, equitable for all. His role on the IASLC–Lancet Commission is a beacon of hope and a powerful testament to the impact of dedicated leadership from the African continent.

Call to Action

We invite you to learn more about the vital work of the IASLC–Lancet Commission on Lung Cancer and join us in supporting global efforts to combat this devastating disease.