In a moving response to the urgent call for action against cancer, the World Health Organization (WHO), Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, highlights the critical need for leaders to listen to the stories of cancer survivors.
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Dr. Moeti said the 2022-2024 World Cancer Day campaign aims to “Close the cancer gap.”
2024 marks the final year with the theme “Together, we challenge those in power,” emphasizing the global demand for leaders to prioritize and invest in cancer prevention and care.
“On the 4th of February, the world unites for World Cancer Day, focusing on raising awareness of key cancer issues.
“The WHO African Region plays a vital role in spearheading this global initiative,” she said.
She said the cancer situation in Africa remains disheartening, with approximately 882,882 new cancer cases and 573,653 deaths in 2022.
“Urgent measures are crucial, as projections indicate a potential 1million deaths per year by 2030 if actions are not taken promptly.
“Breast, cervical, prostate, colorectal, and liver cancers contribute to 50% of new cancer cases in adults in the WHO African Region. Alarmingly, cancer death rates in Africa are expected to surpass the global average by 2030.
“Commendable progress has been made in cancer prevention and care, with 17 countries adopting high-performance-based screening tests and 28 Member States implementing nationwide HPV vaccination.
“This year’s theme emphasizes the universal right to health for all individuals, irrespective of socioeconomic status, geographic location, age, or gender. Equal opportunities for cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment are paramount.
“A united call is made for countries, communities, partners, and civil society to collaborate in ensuring universal access to cancer prevention and care.”
Dr. Moeti urged stakeholders to identify priorities, implement evidence-based interventions, and invest in cancer control, using the updated WHO Best Buys as a facilitative tool.
“Leaders are reminded of their responsibility to deploy cost-effective technologies and therapies for cancer prevention and care, ensuring accessibility to affected individuals and their families.
“Countries are encouraged to strengthen information systems for quality data collection, facilitating informed decision-making in the fight against cancer.”
Dr. Moeti noted that Civil society, particularly organizations representing cancer survivors, plays a crucial role in the whole-of-society approach to cancer prevention and care, a central theme of World Cancer Day 2024.
“The resounding message of “Together, we challenge those in power” echoes, I urged leaders to go the extra mile for a cancer-free Africa, reinforcing the collective commitment to overcoming the challenges posed by cancer in the region,” she added.
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