Chronicle Editor
Phillipa Mukome-Chinhoi, Researcher/Writer Knowledge Centre
Every day, millions of people around the world wake up to a battle they never chose to fight. Cancer, a word that strikes fear into the hearts of many, is more than just a disease, it’s a journey of resilience, hope, and unwavering strength.
Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can develop in almost any part of the body and affects millions of people globally, including Zimbabwe.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has made several significant comments on cancer, emphasizing its global impact and the need for comprehensive strategies to address it since it is a global burden.
On February 1, 2024, WHO highlighted the growing global burden of cancer, with an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths in 2022. They stressed the urgent need to address cancer inequities worldwide, noting that underserved populations are disproportionately affected.
The most common types include breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancer. According to recent statistics, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but advancements in treatment and early detection have significantly improved survival rates.
Emily Chipingiridzo (not her real surname) experienced an unexpected turn in October 2010 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite regular tests due to her family history, the news came as a shock. The was a history of cancer in her family from way back.
Her journey through cancer was filled with rapid decisions and emotional challenges. With the support of her family, friends, doctors, and psychologists, she found the strength to push through. Financial assistance from relatives helped ease some of the burdens. She completed her treatment, marking the end of her cancer journey.
Cancer survivors often face significant emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence. Awareness through newspapers, radio, television, and social media has encouraged people to go for checkups so that prevention and treatments can be done early. Survivorship programs provided by hospitals, clinics, and other stakeholders offer access to mental health services, including individual and group therapy, support groups, and stress management techniques.
Baba Satuku, as he preferred to be called, was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer in early 2015. The diagnosis came as a shock, especially since he had never smoked or used firewood or coal for domestic use. Initially, he experienced disbelief and denial, followed by anger and frustration. Fear of the unknown and anxiety about the future were constant companions every day.
Satuku found solace at his clinic in Nyanga and local cancer support groups, though he was treated in Harare. Sharing experiences with others helped him feel less isolated. At his daughter’s home, regular sessions with a therapist and mindfulness practices became part of his daily routine, helping him manage stress and anxiety. After completing his treatment, he emerged with a new perspective on life, appreciating the small joys with his wife, family and grandchildren, finding strength in his resilience.
Mental health specialist Dr Mertha Mo Nyamande noted that to live knowing that you are going to die is one of the most harrowing experiences.
“I wouldn’t want to imagine what that feels like, but these are the realities of men, women, boys and girls who have been diagnosed with such terminal illnesses. Chronic pain is one of those things closely associated with hopelessness and thoughts of being a burden to the family.
“Pain brings about some kind of relationship with the person experiencing it, an element that once one understands the process of the pain they are experiencing, and the relationship that they create with it alongside the various aspects of whatever that pain means. This is what “CBT for Pain” talks about; the thoughts, emotions and behaviours associated with the experience of pain.”
He added: “Those going through the experiences of something as difficult as cancer or any other terminal illness, the sooner they accept and establish a relationship with their pain, the better chances of recovery they have. As there is “no cure for cancer”, how have those who have become healed from it done it? These are the stories to really explore to understand the fundamentals of their experiences.”
Recent advancements in cancer treatment have brought new hope to patients, especially in our country, Zimbabwe. Innovative therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and personalised medicine are revolutionising cancer care.
Clinical trials play a crucial role in developing these treatments, offering patients access to cutting-edge therapies. Ongoing research continues to explore new ways to combat cancer, with promising prospects on the horizon.
In a report released on February 3, 2020, WHO outlined strategies for setting priorities, investing wisely, and providing care for all. This report emphasised the importance of strategic investments in cancer control and evidence-based approaches to improve outcomes.
Online Reporter