SWOT Analysis of Oncology Clinical Trials in Africa: A Town Hall Report From the Global Congress on Oncology Clinical Trials in Blacks

Abstract

Cancer is rapidly becoming a public health crisis as a result of the continued growth and ageing of the global population and will greatly affect resource-limited low- to middle-income countries. It is widely acknowledged that research should be conducted within countries that will bear the greatest burden of disease, and Africa has the unparalleled opportunity to lead the way in developing clinical trials to improve the health of its countries. In 2018, the inaugural Global Congress on Oncology Clinical Trials in Blacks was organized to address the global challenges of clinical trials for oncology among black populations. During this event, researchers, scientists, and advocates participated in a town hall meeting where they explored the status of oncology clinical trials in Africa using the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) approach. Participants discussed noteworthy successes, significant barriers, and opportunities to address gaps in developing a sustainable clinical research framework. Many comments centered on the lack of funding and inadequate infrastructure affecting most African countries. Others noted important successes, such as thriving collaborations among institutions and improved political commitment in support of clinical research. The main objectives of the town hall session were to share knowledge on and discuss advantages and disadvantages of conducting clinical research in Africa. These discussions are invaluable in developing interventions and policies that improve clinical research capabilities in Africa.