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The model multiple: Representing cancer in sub-Saharan Africa
Jennifer Fraser1, David Reubi1, Thandeka Cochrane1
1King's College London, UK.
History of the Human Sciences
|March 31, 2025
Summary
Cancer models in sub-Saharan Africa reveal diverse approaches to understanding malignant disease. This research explores historical and contemporary modeling strategies, expanding the definition of disease models beyond Western contexts.
Area of Science:
- History of Science
- Medical Anthropology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Cancer modeling is crucial for research, public health, and intervention strategies.
- Sub-Saharan Africa presents unique contexts for cancer research due to differing perceptions and experimental approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the history and diversity of cancer modeling in sub-Saharan Africa.
- To examine how different modeling strategies shape understanding of cancer and bodies.
- To expand the definition of disease models beyond Anglo-American paradigms.
Main Methods:
- Archival research
- Ethnographic methods
- Case study analysis of Burkitt's lymphoma, Kaposi sarcoma, and lung cancer models.
Main Results:
- Identified diverse modeling strategies used by health professionals in Africa from the mid-20th century.
- Analyzed three case studies: anatomical models (Burkitt's lymphoma), diagnostic models (Kaposi sarcoma), and statistical models (lung cancer).
- Highlighted epistemic commonalities and differences within these diverse cancer representations.
Conclusions:
- Cancer models in sub-Saharan Africa are multifaceted and context-specific.
- This study complicates the understanding of what constitutes a disease model.
- Research beyond the Anglo-American sphere offers valuable insights into global cancer research.
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