Significant efforts have been made to reduce the burden of cancer: expert

"Qatar is committed to prioritizing actions to fight cancer in accordance with the plans set out in national health strategies," said Professor Karl Alexander Knuth, Medical Director and Director General of the National Center Cancer Control (CNCCR), HMC.
Improvements such as the implementation of vaccination programs to prevent infections at the origin of cervical and uterine cancers, better access to bad cancer screening programs and bowels and taxation, regulation and tobacco control are all actions designed to reduce the burden of cancer in the country, he said.

According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world and is responsible for 9.6 million deaths in 2018. Worldwide, about one in six deaths is due to cancer.
In Qatar, the most recent data published by the Qatar National Cancer Registry indicate that in 2014, 1,465 new patients were diagnosed with cancer, of which 44% were women and 56% were diagnosed with cancer. ;men.
Dr. Mohamed Ussama al-Homsi, Senior Consultant, NCCCR Department of Oncology, said that World Cancer Day is an opportunity to highlight the importance of cancer prevention and screening strategies and to raise awareness. treatment options.
"World Cancer Day, celebrated each year on February 4, is a unique opportunity to draw attention to what can be done to fight cancer and prevent millions of deaths," said Dr. al-Homsi.
"About one third of common cancers are preventable and millions of lives could be saved each year around the world by implementing resource-based prevention, early warning and treatment strategies. For this reason, as oncology experts, we urge people to take a positive and proactive approach in the fight against cancer, "added Dr. al-Homsi.
To mark World Cancer Day, HMC is organizing several activities to raise awareness of the importance of cancer prevention and early detection. The planned activities are also intended to dispel myths about cancer that can negatively affect the public's attitude towards early diagnosis, treatment and care.
"Through our planned activities, we aim to increase awareness of cancer risk factors, such as smoking, overweight, poor diet and lack of physical activity. Emphasis is also placed on public awareness of available screening programs, human papillomavirus vaccination and cancer care available here in Qatar. World Cancer Day is an opportunity to reflect on what each of us can do to reduce the impact of this devastating disease, now and in the future, "said Dr. Homsi.