Investigating Cancer Susceptibility in African Populations

Our research focuses specifically on investigating the genetic factors that contribute to cancer susceptibility in African populations. This is a critically important area, as Africa faces a growing burden of cancer, and there's a significant gap in our understanding of cancer genetics within its incredibly diverse populations.

African populations possess the greatest genetic diversity globally. This means that genetic findings on cancer risk derived from studies in predominantly European or Asian populations often don't fully apply to individuals of African descent. This disparity can lead to missed opportunities for early detection, inaccurate risk assessments, and less effective treatment strategies for African patients.

Our work aims to bridge this gap by:

• Identifying novel germline variants: We seek to discover inherited genetic mutations that are unique to, or more common in, African populations and that increase an individual's risk of developing specific cancers. These might include aggressive breast cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer), or cervical cancer, which are particularly prevalent in parts of Africa.

• Understanding gene-environment interactions: We also investigate how these genetic predispositions interact with environmental factors common in Africa, such as chronic infections (e.g., Hepatitis B, HPV), dietary patterns, or exposure to specific carcinogens, to influence cancer development.

• Informing personalized prevention and screening: By identifying these genetic risk factors, we can pave the way for more accurate, population-specific risk prediction models. This allows for targeted screening programs and personalized prevention strategies, ensuring that resources are directed to those most at risk, ultimately improving early detection and patient outcomes across the continent.