Zimbabwe Cancer Scare: Among Top 5 Globally
By Kwedu News
Zimbabwe is among the top five countries globally with a high incidence of cervical cancer, with approximately 61 out of every 100,000 women being diagnosed annually.
The World Health Organization (WHO) says the country also has a high overall cancer burden, with an age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) among the highest in the world.
A recent study published in e-cancer revealed that the number of new cancer cases in Zimbabwe has more than doubled between 2009 and 2018.
The study also found that the overall crude mortality rate for cancer increased during this period, highlighting a need for improved cancer prevention and control measures.
“The rising trend in cancer incidence in Zimbabwe necessitates immediate attention and action,” said researchers.
They also said government and health organizations need to develop targeted interventions to address the growing burden of cancer, including enhancing healthcare infrastructure, improving access to screening and diagnostic services, and promoting awareness about risk factors.
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers pose a significant health challenge in Zimbabwe.
A study on trends in GI cancer burden in the country, they accounted for 17.2% of all cancers between 2009 and 2018, with 10,859 new cases diagnosed during this period.
The most prevalent GI cancers were esophageal, liver, gastric, colon, and rectal malignancies, with alarming average annual increases in age-standardized rates (ASR).
The study noted that “the incidence of these cancers increased over the decade, with alarming average annual increases in ASR.”
For instance, esophageal cancer ASR rose by 14.7% annually in males and 27.2% in females, the study shows.
Gastric cancer ASR saw significant increases of 279% in males and 230% in females over the 10-year period.
One striking observation is the impact of GI cancers on younger populations.
Approximately 9.3% of esophageal cancer cases and 8.5% of gastric cancer cases were diagnosed in patients under 45 years old.
Researchers say there is need for early screening and awareness programs tailored to the Zimbabwean population.
“Early detection remains key in cervical cancer elimination,” said WHO experts.
They said Zimbabwe needs to prioritize cancer prevention and control measures, including education and screening programs, to reduce the incidence and impact of cancer.
The Zimbabwean government and health organizations have been urged to develop and implement national policies aimed at cancer prevention and treatment, including policies on tobacco control, alcohol consumption, diet, and physical activity, as well as guidelines for screening and early detection of GI cancers.
By understanding the trends and implications of cancer in Zimbabwe, researchers say, stakeholders can work towards reducing the incidence and impact of this growing health challenge.
Research also says “continued improvement in data collection, analysis, and reporting is essential for informed decision-making and policy development.”
The fight against cancer in Zimbabwe requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach, with concerted efforts from the government, health organizations, and stakeholders, Zimbabwe can reduce the burden of cancer and improve the health and well-being of its citizens, health experts say.
Kwedu Classics
Your story our story
