How High Taxes Are Blocking Access to Cancer Care in Africa

Imagine having to choose between life-saving cancer treatment and feeding your family.This is the reality for over 1 million new cancer patients in Africa who spend over 2,300 USD on average for treatment every year. Compare this against an average income of 2,156 USD per capita. As an orthopaedic oncologist, I often resort to older, less effective treatments for my patients because newer options are unaffordable due to high taxes, highlighting the financial strain on our healthcare system. Tax policies on healthcare inputs—such as medical supplies, equipment, and pharmaceuticals—significantly hinder access to cancer care and compromise treatment quality. These policies need urgent reform towards universal health coverage.