On February 4th, World Cancer Day, the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) reaffirms its leading role in prevention, screening, and research. Through innovative projects and a strong community presence, IPD is actively fighting female cancers. Indeed, these diseases are major public health challenges across Africa.
To address this challenge, IPD deploys an integrated strategy based on four fundamental pillars: prevention, screening, research, and innovation. Consequently, this approach provides sustainable solutions for patients at every stage of care.
Breast Cancer: The Genomic Medicine Revolution
Innovation is central to IPD’s work in breast cancer diagnosis. Specifically, through the #ECGM project, the Institute is developing a cutting-edge platform dedicated to genomic medicine. This includes:
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Advanced Sequencing: Using whole-genome sequencing for a deeper understanding of the disease.
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Capacity Building: A comprehensive training program in bioinformatics for clinical and academic professionals.
Cervical Cancer: Community-Based Action
Furthermore, IPD implements a localized strategy to eliminate cervical cancer via the #CerCO-WA and #VOICE projects. In close collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Institute focuses on three key areas:
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Preventive Vaccination: Targeted campaigns for girls aged 9 to 14 in the Dakar and Ziguinchor regions.
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Raising Awareness: Combating vaccine hesitancy to build community trust.
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Screening and Follow-up: Partnerships with reference hospitals (such as Dalal Jamm) to ensure rigorous patient monitoring.
A Reference for Biological Expertise
In conclusion, IPD’s Medical Biology Laboratory plays a vital role in this fight. Thanks to molecular screening for high-risk HPV viruses, the Institute provides highly accurate diagnostics. Finally, IPD’s ambition is clear: to establish itself as the regional reference in the fight against cancer by putting innovation and patients first.
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