daniel chigunwe
Rumbidzayi Zinyuke
Health Buzz
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for nearly one in six deaths in 2020.
While high-income countries have made strides in improving survival rates through advanced treatment and early detection, many low- and middle-income countries, including Zimbabwe, continue to have challenges with significant disparities in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
According to the National Cancer Registry, the total number of new cancer cases recorded among Zimbabweans of all races in 2019 was 7 173.
The most frequently occurring cancers were cervical cancer, accounting for 22 percent, prostate (11 percent), breast (8 percent), oesophagus (5 percent), colo-rectal (4 percent), stomach (4 percent), Kaposi sarcoma (KS) (4 percent), NHL (3 percent) and liver (3 percent).
Nearly 2 500 deaths are reported in Zimbabwe annually, while a significant 82 percent of all cases are diagnosed at advanced stages.
Recognising the urgent need to address this growing public health challenge, Government has finalised the National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP), a comprehensive strategy aimed at improving cancer outcomes.
A national cancer control plan is a strategy document designed to set cancer control priorities.
It focuses on prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, palliation, survivorship care, data collection, and monitoring of cancer.
With this plan, Zimbabwe joins a growing number of nations implementing structured cancer control strategies, backed by technical support from global organisations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Since 2020, many African and Latin American countries have sought assistance in crafting and executing cancer control plans to combat the increasing disease burden.
The NCCP looks at several key interventions aimed at reducing cancer incidence and mortality, improving patient outcomes, and making cancer care more accessible across the country.
Strengthening prevention and public awareness
Cancer prevention remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the disease burden.
The NCCP places a strong emphasis on lifestyle modifications and risk reduction through targeted public health campaigns. These initiatives aim to educate the public on the dangers of tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity—all of which contribute to cancer development.
Promote vaccination programmes, particularly for human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes cervical cancer, and hepatitis B, which is linked to liver cancer.
Encourage occupational and environmental safety measures to reduce exposure to known carcinogens.
Furthermore, Government has taken a proactive step by earmarking funds generated from taxing unhealthy products such as alcohol and tobacco for cancer treatment.
These funds will be crucial in expanding cancer services and acquiring essential medical equipment.
Enhancing early detection and screening programmes
One of the biggest challenges Zimbabwe faces is late-stage cancer diagnosis.
The NCCP could help the country reverse this trend by expanding cancer screening services, particularly for cervical, breast, and prostate cancer.
It can also increase access to Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIAC) screenings for cervical cancer, which has already been widely adopted but remains underutilised in some regions.
It would also involve integrating cancer screening into existing healthcare services, including HIV/AIDS programmes, to improve early detection.
Since nearly 60 percent of Zimbabwe’s cancer cases are HIV-related, integrating cancer prevention with HIV care programmes will be a crucial step in reducing mortality rates. The National AIDS Council (NAC) has already begun implementing an integrated approach, ensuring that HIV and cancer interventions are delivered together.
Expanding access to cancer treatment and care
Zimbabwe’s cancer treatment landscape has long been plagued by limited facilities, outdated equipment, and high treatment costs.
Decentralised cancer care services would help to bring treatment closer to communities.
This includes the establishment of new cancer treatment centres in various provinces to reduce reliance on Harare and Bulawayo.
Investment in healthcare infrastructure and medical training, will ensure that hospitals and clinics are well-equipped to diagnose and treat cancer efficiently.
Zimbabwe is already at an advanced stage to making this possible.
The Government has committed to disbursing all the funds raised from the taxation of unhealthy products that present a cancer risk, such as alcohol or tobacco, towards cancer treatment.
To date, a substantial amount of money has been raised and is expected to be used to procure cancer treatment machines.
This will positively impact on the decentralisation of cancer care services as new centres will be established in other provinces.
Improving palliative and survivorship care
The NCCP acknowledges the need for comprehensive support for cancer patients and survivors, focusing on pain management, psychological support, and improved quality of life.
Expanding palliative care services will ensure that patients with advanced-stage cancer receive compassionate and dignified care.
It will also strengthen support networks for cancer survivors, helping them reintegrate into society and address the long-term effects of cancer treatment.
Strengthening data collection and research
Accurate cancer data is essential for tracking trends, evaluating interventions, and making evidence-based decisions. Enhanced data collection and cancer registries will improve understanding of cancer patterns across different regions.
Research collaborations with universities and health institutions to develop local solutions for cancer prevention and treatment.
A coordinated effort for a cancer-free future
The successful implementation of the NCCP will require a multi-sectoral approach, involving Government agencies, healthcare professionals, civil society, and international partners. The plan serves as a roadmap to reduce cancer incidence and mortality in Zimbabwe, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective care.
By prioritising prevention, early detection, equitable treatment, and research, the NCCP has the potential to transform Zimbabwe’s cancer care landscape.
With sustained investment and commitment, Zimbabwe can move towards a future where cancer no longer claims thousands of lives needlessly.
Online Reporter