Online Reporter
Robin Muchetu Health and Gender Editor
ZIMBABWE is today commemorating World Cancer Day, with the rest of the world with this year’s theme-United By Unique- taking centerstage, emphasising the importance of personalised care and treatment for different cancer patients.
The Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (CAZ) together with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) are also observing the important day as cancer has been identified as one of the top diseases that is causing premature deaths around the world.
Mr Lovemore Makurirofa, from the Information, Research and Evaluation Unit of CAZ said different people experience cancer in a different manner such that treatment must be individualised.
“The uniqueness in how individuals experience cancer calls for an adaptive and individualised approach to cancer treatment and care. The theme calls upon everyone to act accordingly in the prevention and control of cancer by focusing on reducing various inequalities in cancer care and promoting person centered care,” he said.
He said the theme reminds communities of the need to work together to promote “Health Equity” in cancer care.
he said in Zimbabwe, substantial gaps persist throughout the cancer care continuum, from initial diagnosis through survivorship.
“Access to cancer information and appropriate management services remained limited,” he said.
The “UNITED BY UNIQUE” theme urges individuals, corporations, civil society, and government to unite in reducing the global cancer burden through improved, comprehensive cancer care for all.
“It stresses the need to tailor cancer interventions to address the unique needs of individuals. This call for personalised cancer interventions aligns perfectly with Zimbabwe’s national drive toward achieving universal health coverage (UHC) by 2030,” he added.
Zimbabwe ranks among the top 5 most burdened countries for cervical cancer globally, with a high incidence of 61 to 68 per 100,000 women annually.
