Molecular and Circulating Biomarkers for Early Detection of Lung Cancer in African Populations: A Scoping Review and Call for Implementation Science Research on Early Risk Prediction.

This study is a scoping review designed to systematically map and synthesize the existing evidence on molecular and circulating biomarkers for the early detection of lung cancer in African populations. The primary purpose of the review is to identify, describe, and categorize available research on biomarker types, diagnostic applications, and methodological approaches used in African settings, as well as to highlight gaps in the current evidence base. The review will follow the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodological framework for scoping reviews and will be reported in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A comprehensive search will be conducted across multiple electronic databases and grey literature sources to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies will include all empirical research designs that report on molecular or circulating biomarkers used for lung cancer early detection in African populations. Study selection will involve a two-stage screening process (title/abstract screening followed by full-text review) conducted independently by two reviewers. Data will be extracted using a standardized charting form and synthesized using descriptive and narrative methods, including evidence mapping and categorization of biomarker types, study characteristics, and diagnostic applications. The expected outcome of this review is a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of lung cancer biomarker research in Africa, identification of key knowledge gaps, and generation of evidence to inform future research priorities and the potential development of precision diagnostic strategies in resource-limited settings.