South Africa, one of the leading economies in the Middle East and Africa, recorded a GDP of approximately US$377.78 billion in 2023. Healthcare spending represents around 8.5% of the country’s GDP, making it the second-largest component of national expenditure. With both government and private sector investments increasing to enhance healthcare infrastructure, there is a growing demand for therapeutic solutions. As home to one of Africa’s most advanced healthcare systems, South Africa continues to invest significantly in cancer research and treatment innovations. Factors such as an aging population, improved access to medical services, and advancements in diagnostic tools are driving the need for effective cancer therapies.
Cancer is among the primary causes of mortality in South Africa, with breast, prostate, cervical, and lung cancers being the most prevalent. According to GLOBOCAN 2020, the country reported approximately 108,168 new cancer cases and 56,802 cancer-related deaths that year. In response to the rising cancer burden, the South African government is actively implementing strategies aimed at expanding access to care and supporting therapeutic advancements. These strategies focus on cancer prevention, early detection, and enhancing treatment options to improve patient outcomes. National health policies have also been introduced to strengthen cancer care services. For example, the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme aims to deliver comprehensive healthcare coverage to all citizens, including cancer treatments, thereby facilitating broader access to essential and potentially life-saving therapies.
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