The Ministry of Health has reported a concerning rise in cancer cases, with 45,000 new cases recorded across Tanzania in 2022.
This alarming statistic was revealed by the Minister of Health, Jenista Mhagama, during the launch of a new cancer unit at Shifaa Pan African Hospital in Dar es Salaam.
Minister Mhagama emphasized that cancer remains one of the most significant public health challenges in the country, with the number of new cases continuing to rise each year. She highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in improving survival rates, stressing that the growing number of cancer patients underscores the urgent need for expanded access to healthcare services and better facilities across the nation.
“We are witnessing an increase in cancer cases that demands our immediate attention. This is why we, as the government, are committed to improving healthcare infrastructure, especially in cancer treatment,” said Minister Mhagama. “The opening of cancer units like this one at Shifaa Pan African Hospital plays a crucial role in bringing specialized services closer to the people and helping reduce the strain on public hospitals.”
She went on to reaffirm the government’s continued support for private investors in the health sector, acknowledging that public-private partnerships are essential in addressing the rising cancer burden in Tanzania. “The government will continue to support private sector investments in healthcare, as we believe this will strengthen our collective efforts to combat cancer,” she added.
The Minister also noted that the government’s commitment to fighting cancer is part of a broader effort to improve healthcare services nationwide. Recent investments in modern medical equipment, the construction of regional cancer centers, and ongoing health awareness campaigns are some of the key strategies aimed at addressing the growing cancer crisis.
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The launch of the cancer unit at Shifaa Pan African Hospital is expected to boost the hospital’s capacity to provide timely and effective cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care. The hospital’s management expressed their gratitude to the government for its support and reiterated their dedication to offering high-quality cancer treatment services to the community.
The rise in cancer cases in Tanzania mirrors a global trend, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has identified cancer as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Minister Mhagama urged the public to prioritize early screenings, adopt healthier lifestyles, and stay informed about the risks of cancer to reduce the incidence of the disease.