Govt commits more funds for cancer

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to increasing the budget for cancer drugs annually in response to the rising number of patients.

Health Minister Jenista Mhagama made this pledge during the launch of the Shifaa Cancer Care and Research Centre at Shifaa Hospital, Msese Kinondoni Road in Dar es Salaam, over the weekend.

She noted that while the number of cancer patients is increasing, many cannot afford treatment and require financial support.

To address this, the government has allocated 10bn/- for cancer drugs in the current fiscal year, with plans to raise the amount in future budgets.

Mhagama highlighted the significance of the new centre, stating that it will improve access to crucial diagnostic and medical services for cancer-related issues in Tanzania. She also pointed out that cancer cases have been rising annually, with 45,000 new patients recorded in 2022 alone.

“When cancer patients don’t receive early treatment, it leads to higher mortality. With this growing number, the country must make plans to save lives by providing early intervention,” she said.

She further outlined the most common cancers in Tanzania: cervical cancer (24.2 per cent), prostate cancer (10.7 per cent), breast cancer (10 per cent), throat cancer (7.9 per cent) and colon cancer (4.9 per cent).

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Together, these account for 42 per cent of all cancer cases in the country, with cervical and breast cancer being the most prevalent among women.

“The government is taking significant steps to protect citizens from cancer. For those diagnosed, our goal is to provide timely treatment.

We are thankful for Shifaa Hospital’s support in this fight against cancer, helping restore patients’ well-being,” said Mhagama.

She added that the government continues to conduct cancer education, screening, and early detection campaigns, while expanding these services across various regions.

The aim is to establish more centres, especially for women, and to strengthen diagnostic, laboratory, and radiology services by ensuring sufficient CT and MRI machines.

Mr Bashir Haroon, Managing Director of Shifaa Hospital, praised the government for its substantial investments in the health sector.

He noted that the hospital, which cost 60 million US dollar to build, aims to provide modern and accessible healthcare to citizens. “The construction of Shifaa Hospital supports the government’s efforts in the health sector.

We are pleased with the progress and commend private health institutions for their contributions,” Haroon said.

He emphasised the growing cancer burden in Tanzania and globally, explaining that the establishment of a cancer treatment centre will help reduce the financial strain on patients who would otherwise seek treatment abroad.