Digital health and artificial intelligence innovations for oncology in sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Countries across Africa are experiencing the dual challenge of rising cancer burden and severe health-care workforce shortages, which threaten to overwhelm its already strained health systems. Simultaneously, advancements in digital health technologies, including electronic health records, telemedicine, mobile health, and artificial intelligence (AI), offer promising solutions to address these challenges. This Policy Review explores the potential of digital health innovations to transform cancer care in Africa by improving access, efficiency, and equity. It highlights successful examples, such as AI-driven diagnostic tools and mobile health interventions, while addressing barriers to adoption, including infrastructure gaps, poor digital literacy, and policy constraints. Strategic recommendations are proposed to foster sustainable and scalable digital health ecosystems tailored to the African context. By leveraging digital health and AI, countries in Africa have a unique opportunity to improve oncology outcomes and strengthen their health-care infrastructure.