4th PACRI International Annual Meeting

4^th PACRI INTERNATIONAL ANNUAL MEETING

IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NATIONAL COMPREHENSIVE CANCER RESEARCH CONSORTIUM (NCCRC) AND THE AFRICAN ACADEMY OF INTEGRATED MORPHOLOGY AND HEALTH SCIENCES (AAIMHS)

THE MASLOW, SANDTON, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA

MARCH 22-25, 2026

The 4th PACRI International Annual Meeting is set to bring together African and global experts in cancer research, clinical practice, policy, and advocacy to explore how we can drive transformative change in cancer care across Africa. This conference will provide a dynamic platform for engaging multi-disciplinary discussions on bridging the gap between cutting-edge cancer science and its real-world applications. Ensuring that innovation, equity, and patient-centred care shape the future of cancer treatment and prevention in Africa will be at the core of this event.

With an emphasis on advancing cancer research and care, the conference will cover the latest breakthroughs in precision oncology, genomics, artificial intelligence (AI), and the exposome’s critical role in cancer risk, particularly in African populations. Through detailed discussions, delegates will examine how these innovations can be integrated into healthcare systems across Africa, providing an opportunity for researchers and clinicians to address the urgent need for more personalized treatments and early detection methods that take into account the unique genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors that contribute to cancer in the region.

A key focus will also be placed on the intersection between cancer and infectious diseases, recognizing the significant burden of co-morbid infections such as HIV, HPV, and hepatitis in Africa and their role in cancer development and progression. This will include discussions on how integrated approaches can enhance cancer prevention and treatment strategies. Additionally, the role of cultural practices in shaping cancer care and patient outcomes will be examined, ensuring that research and clinical interventions are aligned with the cultural contexts and traditions of African communities.

Paediatric cancers will be a critical area of focus, addressing the unique challenges faced in diagnosing and treating childhood cancers across Africa. The conference will explore strategies to improve early detection, enhance access to effective treatments, and integrate precision medicine approaches tailored for paediatric oncology. Discussions will also highlight disparities in care, the role of genetic and environmental factors in paediatric cancer development, and the need for collaborative efforts to improve outcomes for children affected by cancer.

Central to the conference will be the exploration of disparities in cancer care, particularly access to clinical trials, which remain a critical hurdle for many African patients. The conference will explore how clinical trials can be more accessible, equitable, and inclusive for African populations, discussing not only the scientific and logistical challenges of conducting trials in the region but also the need for patient advocacy to empower individuals and communities. Advocacy groups will share their valuable insights on how they support patients in navigating clinical trials, ensuring that their voices are heard, and that the trials reflect the needs and concerns of local populations.

A special focus will be placed on the critical intersection of innovation and equity. The conference will underscore the need to prioritize equitable access to cutting-edge cancer treatments and research, ensuring that all African populations, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographic location, have the opportunity to benefit from the latest advances in cancer care. This includes patient education on clinical trials, community engagement to build trust in research, and policy advocacy to support inclusive healthcare reforms.

Moreover, the event will highlight the role of patient advocacy groups, whose work has been pivotal in not only raising awareness but also in advocating for policy reforms that ensure cancer care is accessible, affordable, and patient-centred. Their efforts in fostering public awareness, engaging with healthcare providers, and pushing for patient rights will be showcased as a vital aspect of ensuring that Africa’s cancer care systems are both inclusive and effective. Patient advocates will share success stories of how they have shaped local and regional policies to improve access to cancer care and clinical trial participation, ensuring that the voices of patients are integrated into the decision-making processes.

The conference will also feature innovative discussions on how to foster international collaborations, particularly between African researchers and global cancer institutes, to reduce the knowledge gap, enhance research capacity, and expand the reach of clinical trials across Africa. Collaborative efforts will be emphasized as crucial in overcoming the barriers to cancer care, enabling a more coordinated approach to tackling cancer on the continent.

By the end of this event, participants will have a shared vision for an inclusive and equitable approach to cancer care, with actionable strategies that empower patients, integrate innovative technologies, and address disparities that affect access to cancer treatments and clinical trials. Ultimately, the conference aims to set the stage for lasting, transformative impact, improving cancer diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and research across Africa—and globally—ensuring a future where all patients have access to high-quality care, state-of-the-art treatments, and clinical trials that improve patient outcomes.

Key Sessions:​

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS ARE OPEN