Zambia: Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo, says Zambia has continued to face a high burden of cancer-related illnesses. The country records almost 13,000 cases annually with 63% of those amounting to deaths.
The Minister of Health is concerned over the numbers and has shared the detailed statistics of the mortality rates arising from cancer diagnosis. The healthcare sector has bemoaned the situation majorly because most of the cancers are preventable and/or treatable.
Masebo was speaking through Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, during the commemoration of World Cancer Day, Monday, in Choma. World Cancer Day is a yearly celebration which is hosted with the aim of spreading awareness about the disease.
The World Cancer Day and has emerged as a significant opportunity for healthcare stakeholders of the country to spread awareness. The Minister of Health, Sylvia Masebo has been one of the most vocal supporter of cancer awareness in Zambia.
She noted that the highest burden of cases in 2023 was from Cervical Cancer standing at 3,161. The cancer has a high mortality rate of 60% despite it being preventable by regular cervical screenings.
Masebo also disclosed that Breast Cancer is the second most common cancer in women in Zambian women, with over 400 deaths annually. This type of cancer can also be diagnosed through regular mammograms and screenings available at healthcare facilities.
She stated that the Government has prioritized measures aimed at reducing the cancer burden in the Country. The officials have pledged their support to the cause and announced that they would help in sensitizing the general population about regular checkups and screenings to prevent cancer deaths.
Further, Choma Mayor, Javen Simoloka, urged members of the public to take interest in cancer screening. He also emphasized that early detection of the disease makes treatment easy and effective.
The people of Zambia have also extended their support to the cause of cancer awareness during the commemoration of World Cancer Day.