Abstract 3571: Drivers of cancer genomics research productivity in high income countries (HICs) versus lower middle income countries (LMICs): Which interventions can help close the gap?
Authors: Rachel Chown, Georgina Curtis, Colin Quigley, Nicklas Jansler, Roberto Jacome, Robert G. Bristow, George F. Njoroge, Esther Njoki Mwangi Maina, David C. Wedge
Journal: Cancer Research (2025)

Abstract Purpose: Productivity disparity exists in cancer research systems between High Income Countries (HICs) versus Lower-Middle-Income-Countries (LMICs). Capacity and productivity for cancer genomics research is an exemplar metric for overall cancer research capacity. Kenyan cancer genomics research capacity was used as a case study for an LMIC benchmarked against the HIC countries of the UK and USA. A conceptual framework was used to analyse drivers of productivity of cancer genomics research within institutions based on research environment resources. Preliminary recommendations which can help close the research productivity gap were then made. Methodology: This research study was carried out by conducting sixteen semi-structured interviews with researchers based across the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, South Africa, and Kenya, and analysis of this qualitative data was then conducted via NVivo. Further primary research data was sought via surveying of genomics researchers and specific institutions based in case study countries. Secondary research was conducted through online and database searches, and in-depth literature reviews on cancer genomics research and global disparities in cancer research. We applied and considered ‘The Matthew Effect’, that relates to cumulative advantage, and theories of productivity. Results: This study found that drivers of the productivity gap between national cancer research systems across HICs and LMICs can be attributed to interrelated factors within three key areas: Data and Technology, Funding and Partnerships, and Knowledge and Capacity Build. These are critical to the productivity and eventual impact of cancer research in a particular environment. This study identified that external context factors are as important as the drivers of research productivity, and that research needs to be context relevant and designed to be relative to the local environment. Conclusions: This study concludes that The Matthew Effect is clearly observable within cancer research systems. Whilst this has amplified global disparity to date, the correct application of stated recommendations can change this trajectory and help close the gap to ultimately improve global progress and outcomes for comparative cancer research. Citation Format: Rachel Chown, Georgina Curtis, Colin Quigley, Nicklas Jansler, Roberto Jacome, Robert G. Bristow, George F. Njoroge, Esther Njoki Mwangi Maina, David C. Wedge. Drivers of cancer genomics research productivity in high income countries (HICs) versus lower middle income countries (LMICs): Which interventions can help close the gap. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 3571.