Groundbreaking Genetic Discovery in Breast Cancer - CANSA On the Couch Podcast

In our latest On the CANSA Couch podcast, hosts Megan and Kudzai sit down with Mahtaab Hayat, lecturer and researcher in the School of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of the Witwatersrand. Mahtaab is the lead author of a remarkable new study, published in Nature, which uncovered two new genetic variants linked to breast cancer in Black South African women.

Why does this matter? Until now, most genetic research on breast cancer has been done in Europe and the USA. This means many of the tools used to predict breast cancer risk don’t work as well for African women. By investing in research here at home, we’re taking a crucial step towards better prevention, earlier detection, and more effective treatments that reflect our population’s unique genetic diversity.

This conversation is also released in support of World Cancer Research Day (24 September), which this year highlights the theme: “Innovation in Cancer Research Drives Progress Toward Health Equity.”

Listen and watch in as Mahtaab explains what this breakthrough means for survivors, their families, and the future of cancer care in Africa.

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