Patricia Mashiri- Zim Now Reporter
Statistics show that 40% of women are the most burdened with cervical cancer, and those living with HIV are six times more at risk than those who are not.
Speaking at the belated World Cancer Day commemorations held yesterday at Chikangwe Stadium in Karoi, Mashonaland West, Minister of Health and Child Care, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, said cancer cases have been rising, with cervical cancer accounting for 40% of cases among women.
“The burden of cancer in Zimbabwe is a stark reality that we can no longer ignore. Over the past decade, we have witnessed a troubling acceleration in cancer cases, with the Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry recording a doubling of cases between 2009 and 2019.
According to the same registry, over 7,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed annually. Among women, 40% are cervical cancer cases, while breast cancer accounts for 13%. Among men, prostate cancer is the most prevalent, registering 28%. In children, cancer has also been devastating, with leukemia (cancer of the blood) accounting for 19% of cases and Wilms tumor (cancer of the kidney) for 13%,” he said.
The Minister praised partnerships with various organizations for their role in cancer detection and the procurement of appropriate medical equipment.
“Collaborations between my ministry and partners such as Angel of Hope, Kidzcan, Jointed Hands Welfare Organization, UNICEF, WHO, the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe, and many others have resulted in the provision of free cancer screening services, particularly in rural areas. We have also been engaging with communities, traditional leaders, and healthcare providers to promote cancer awareness,” he said.
National AIDS Council (NAC) Chief Executive, Dr. Bernard Madzima, represented by NAC Mashonaland West Provincial Manager Mr. David Nyamurera, said NAC is committed to the fight against cancer and is already implementing strategies.
"High on NAC’s agenda is the incorporation of cancer prevention and control activities in its planning, in line with national policies, guidelines, and strategies on cancer control and prevention.
Through district-based programming, NAC also works with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and other partners to roll out community mobilization and cancer screening programs in different districts,” he said.
This year's World Cancer Day commemorations ran under the theme ‘United by Unique’.
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