Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
04 December 2024 | 17:50 CAT

Dr. Mutsa Takundwa discusses groundbreaking cancer research and innovative technologies at the 2024 Science Forum South Africa, aiming to improve healthcare outcomes for African patients. (image credit- Shutterstock)

The 2024 Science Forum South Africa is drawing significant attention with the CSIR (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research) unveiling groundbreaking cancer research and innovative technologies to improve healthcare for African patients. The forum, hosted by the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, kicked off this week at the International Convention Centre and runs until Friday. Dr Mutsa Takundwa, a Senior Researcher at the CSIR, shared insights into the exciting work being showcased.

In a discussion with Radio Islam International, Dr. Takundwa highlighted a key collaboration between the CSIR and academic hospitals, focusing on personalized chemotherapy for African cancer patients. This innovative approach tests different drugs on tumor specimens or blood samples from patients, aiming to identify the most effective treatments in an African context.

“This project is crucial as it allows us to personalize chemotherapeutic medicines for African patients, something that hasn’t been extensively done before,” Dr. Takundwa explained. With a rising cancer burden across the continent, the research is a timely intervention. The World Health Organization predicts that by 2030, cancer will become the leading cause of morbidity in Africa.

As part of the forum, CSIR is also showcasing a range of technologies, including a robot from the Learning Factory, designed to simulate various robotics applications. Though Dr. Takundwa is not directly involved with the robot, he emphasized the importance of public engagement with such innovations.

The Science Forum offers a unique platform for the public to interact with researchers and learn about the latest developments in science and technology. Dr. Takundwa encouraged everyone to attend, noting that registration is free and open to the public.

“It’s vital that we raise awareness and educate people about the importance of early diagnosis,” he said, stressing the role of lifestyle choices in reducing the cancer burden. As Dr. Takundwa pointed out, proactive health measures, including genetic tests, can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and reduce the risks associated with cancer.

You can listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and Dr Mutsa Takundwa, a Senior Researcher at the CSIR, here.