Breast Cancer Costs Nigeria, Six Other African Countries $10bn in Productivity Loss – Study
A new study has revealed that Breast cancer has caused more than $10 billion in lost productivity across seven African countries, including Nigeria, highlighting the growing economic burden of the disease on the continent.
The research, presented during the 2026 Roche Africa Press Day in Nairobi, found that the economic losses occurred between 2017 and 2023 in seven countries: Nigeria, Algeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Morocco, South Africa, and Tunisia.
Experts say the financial impact is largely due to the disease affecting women during their prime working years. According to the analysis, about 90% of the productivity losses came from women in the active workforce, meaning the illness reduces labor participation, income generation, and economic output.
The aggressive HER2-positive form of breast cancer, which accounts for around 20% of cases in Africa, was identified as a major contributor to the economic burden.
Health experts also warned that many African women are diagnosed too late, with roughly 77% of cases detected in advanced stages, making treatment more difficult and costly.
Late diagnosis often happens because of:
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Limited access to screening and early detection
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Weak healthcare infrastructure
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Lack of awareness about early symptoms
The study suggests that investing in cancer treatment and early detection could bring significant economic returns. Researchers estimate that every $1 invested in breast cancer treatment could generate up to $12.40 in economic benefits by helping women return to productive work and live longer, healthier lives.
Health leaders at the event stressed that tackling breast cancer should be seen not only as a medical issue but also as an economic strategy for African development.
Experts recommended that African governments:
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Integrate cancer care into primary healthcare systems
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Expand screening and early diagnosis programs
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Increase investment in women’s health services
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Encourage African-led medical research
They argue that addressing breast cancer effectively could improve both public health and economic productivity across the continent.
