Madrid, Spain | April 4–6, 2025
The 2025 Global Kidney Cancer Summit brought together over 45 countries in a powerful three-day gathering that united patients, advocates, researchers, and clinicians under one goal: to transform kidney cancer care worldwide. MACA was proud to participate and share insights from Nigeria while learning from global partners.
Day 1 focused on early detection and patient empowerment. The summit opened with a compelling message: diagnostic delays continue to cost lives, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Experts stressed the need for faster diagnoses and better navigation through treatment. A breakout session on “Patient Voice in Research” highlighted the importance of culturally adapted multilingual tools and stronger patient inclusion in clinical trial design. The key message was that early detection saves lives, but only if people know what to look for and where to go.
Day 2 was on the power of global advocacy. Despite vast geographic differences, advocacy groups from every continent shared common struggles—limited funding, treatment inequality, and policy barriers. Yet, collaboration emerged as the cure. Partnerships between organisations, sharing advocacy tools, and mentoring newer groups were encouraged to break down silos and build global momentum. The key conclusion was that kidney cancer challenges don’t respect borders—neither should our solutions.
Day 3 focused on data, dialogue and doing better
The highlight of Day 3 was the release of the Global RCC Patient Survey 2024, featuring responses from 46 countries, including Nigeria. MACA proudly presented findings on treatment patterns in Africa, sparking rich discussions on access to newer therapies like immunotherapy. A powerful session led by Deb Maskens urged advocates to reach patients still “below the waterline”—the unseen, unheard, and undiagnosed. Real change starts when we focus on all patients, not just the visible few.
The summit shed light on several critical gaps in kidney cancer care in Nigeria, revealing a system still struggling to meet patient needs. A major concern is the high rate of late-stage diagnoses, often resulting from limited public awareness and poor access to early screening services. Treatment options also remain limited, with radical nephrectomy still being the most widely available approach. Access to newer, more advanced therapies is minimal, restricting patients’ choices and outcomes. Beyond medical care, there is a notable absence of comprehensive support systems. Patients often face their diagnosis without access to mental health services, peer support groups, or financial aid. These challenges are even more pronounced in rural and low-income communities, where individuals are often disconnected from care networks and advocacy efforts, further widening the gap in access to care and outcomes.
Recommendations for the African continent
- Promote early detection: Launch localised awareness campaigns and train frontline health workers.
- Enhance treatment access: Advocate for equitable access to innovative therapies, such as immunotherapy.
- Simplify education: Create clear, multilingual materials with visuals and relatable stories.
- Reach remote communities: Partner with local groups for rural outreach and patient referrals.
- Leverage data for change: Use local insights to engage policymakers and drive reform.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this summit reignited our passion to serve kidney cancer patients in Nigeria and across Africa. From awareness and early detection to mental health and equitable access, we are more committed than ever to turning insights into action. With global partnerships and great determination, MACA is ready to elevate care for those most at risk.
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