Advancing Leukemia Diagnosis and Treatment: WHO-Supported Laboratory Innovations in Africa- A Narrative Review.

Leukemia remains a major health challenge in Africa, where limited access to advanced diagnostic technologies often leads to delayed diagnosis and suboptimal treatment outcomes. This review explores the role of WHO-supported laboratory innovations in advancing leukemia diagnosis across the continent. It examines key technologies such as molecular diagnostics, flow cytometry, and cytogenetics, highlighting how these innovations have enhanced the accuracy and speed of leukemia detection in resource-limited settings. By facilitating early and precise diagnoses, these technologies are improving patient management and treatment outcomes. Despite the promising advancements, significant barriers to widespread implementation persist, including high costs, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of trained personnel. WHO's efforts to address these challenges through regional collaborations, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives are pivotal in overcoming these obstacles. The establishment of specialized diagnostic centers and the integration of advanced technologies into national healthcare systems are key strategies to expand access and improve leukemia care in Africa.