Cancer diagnosis rates on the rise

Cancer rates are increasing among Namibians, placing strain on healthcare systems which are already under pressure as the demand for related management structures grows. The incidence rates of cancer have climbed by an average of 12% in recent years, with breast and cervical cancer being the most common. One in five people will develop some type of cancer in their lifetime, with one in nine men and one in 12 women dying from the disease. These shocking statistics were revealed during a discussion on Namibia's national cancer control plan. At the event, health minister Dr Kalumbi Shangula emphasised that no single entity can tackle cancer alone. Although the ministry has the mandate to lead processes to develop the plan, according to him, this requires cooperation with all sectors and role-players. These include line ministries, health service providers, research and tertiary institutions, non-governmental organisations, the private sector and international partners."Indeed also every Namibian, including those who have overcome cancer and who live with cancer," he urged.Sense of urgencyAccording to Shangula, with the development of strategies such as the control plan and followed by effective implementation, Namibia can achieve success in the fight against the disease. He added that it is critical to recognise the need for collaboration and partnerships in this regard. "Cooperation must be more than a word. This must be the principle that guides our actions. This means working together practically to ensure that our interventions and policy directions are not only well-intentioned, but that they can also be implemented effectively."This plan must be geared to address the realities and experiences of people and, according to the minister, means sharing resources, knowledge and expertise to build a strong and reactive healthcare system capable of addressing unique cancer-related challenges Namibia faces.He told participants at the discussion to tackle the above challenge with a greater sense of urgency. "Namibia needs a control plan that enables the country to effectively prevent and address the impact of cancer on our society." Cancer control is also a critical component of Namibia's strategy for non-communicable diseases, which was launched in 2018. This is because of the significant negative impact it has on public health, the capacity of health systems and economic stability, he explained. HPV vaccineMeanwhile, during the discussion, it was revealed that the ministry has sought Cabinet approval for a vaccine that prevents cervical cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines prevent HPV infections and protect against the two types of the virus which cause the greatest risk of cervical cancer.A strategic plan to eradicate cervical cancer in Namibia by 2030 has already been drawn up, while a technical committee has evaluated the national prevention guidelines to ensure they are in line with current global guidelines. According to Shangula, the prevention services will be available at existing primary healthcare institutions. Namibia will also gradually move from the visual examination of the uterus and the use of acetic acid in pap smears to DNA testing. The target group is 30-year-old women, and 25-year-old women living with HIV.The interval between scans is five and 10 years for those living with HIV and the general population respectively.The HPV DNA test will begin as part of a phased approach with a population at high risk of developing cervical cancer and women who are HIV positive. Shangula said the goal is a coverage of 70% by 2030, which is in line with the global target. Namibia has also successfully introduced and increased the treatment of pre-cancerous lesions using thermal ablation devices. Women 50 years and older are scanned and can receive same-day treatment with thermal ablation. Patients who have had a positive test and cannot receive treatment due to the lack of capacity or equipment are referred to the nearest healthcare facilities where these services are offered. - henriette@republikein.com.na

Cancer diagnosis rates on the rise

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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Cancer diagnosis rates on the rise

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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