Background History

Cancer is a growing public health concern in Tanzania, with 44,931 new cases and 29,743 deaths annually (GLOBOCAN 2022). Late-stage diagnosis is a major challenge, par- ticularly for youth, who face unique issues like social isolation, educational disruptions, and financial hardships. YACA was founded in 2022 by a group of passionate youth advocates, including cancer survivors and health professionals, to address these gaps, recognizing that existing healthcare policies often overlook the needs of young people. By empowering youth, YACA aims to reduce stigma, improve treatment adherence, and enhance quality of life.