Ministry of Health says Malawi registers over 3000 new cases of Kaposi’s Sarcoma every year.
In a statement ahead of the world cancer day on 4th February, the ministry’s secretary for health Dr Samoson Mndolo says the burden of cancer which is one of the killer diseases, is very high in Malawi.
Mndolo however said cervical cancer is topping the list followed by esophageal and breast cancer adding that prostate cancer is also increasing each year with growing concerns for men’s health.
Mndolo attributed the rise of cancer cases in Malawi to HIV, Human Papilloma Virus and hepatitis B infections as well as lifestyle factors as such alcohol intake, poor diet, lack of exercises and tobacco use.
He said the ministry has intensified prevention and treatment efforts including provision of cervical cancer screening, male medical circumcision services, and Human Papiroma Virus (HPV) vaccine for 9 year old girls and Hepatitis B vaccination for the high risk groups.
Mndolo further assured Malawians on the availability of Kaposi’s sarcoma treatment in all district hospitals and comprehensive treatment including surgery, chemotherapy ad radiotherapy at the National cancer center in Lilongwe.
This year the day will be commemorated under the theme: United by Unique”.
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