‘Let us support cancer patients’
As the country joins the global community in commemorating the World Cancer Day, Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (Wocaca) in Malawi has urged stakeholders to create an equitable and accessible cancer care system for all.
The coalitions executive director Maud Mwakasungula in a statement yesterday said policymakers, healthcare providers, community leaders, civil society advocates and every Malawian need to come together and take action against cancer.
According to Mwakasungula, many cancer risk factors are preventable, and up to 50 percent of the cases can be avoided.

She said lifestyle changes such as avoiding tobacco, alcohol, limiting processed and high-calorie foods, consuming more fruits and vegetables, staying physically active, and keeping up with vaccinations notably reduce the risk.
“We reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness, advocating for early screening and treatment, ensuring equitable access to cancer care for all, offering support to groups led by cancer survivors and amplifying their voices to drive meaningful change and improve outcomes.
“Let us support cancer patients, push for better healthcare policies, and continue fighting for early detection and treatment services,” she said.
Cancer poses a severe threat to individual health and well-being and remains a major global health challenge with over 20 million new cancer cases and an estimated 9.7 million deaths globally annually.
According to her, the disease leads to significant healthcare costs and economic losses due to reduced productivity and premature deaths, hindering sustainable development.
Mwakasungula said early detection greatly improves treatment success, as some screening methods can identify cancer before symptoms appear.
The day is being commemorated under the theme United by Unique and according to Mwakasungula, by embracing the uniqueness, sharing knowledge, and working together, “we can close the care gap and create a healthier future”.
Health Rights advocate Grace Febbie Ngulube said it is important for authorities to act on cancer as it is a major public health challenge that threatens lives, strains healthcare systems, and hampers economic development.
“With cancer cases rising in Malawi and globally, early detection, prevention, and equitable treatment are critical to reducing mortality rates and improving patient outcomes.
“By investing in awareness campaigns, accessible screening programmes, and quality cancer care, governments can save lives, reduce healthcare costs, and promote sustainable development,” she said.
Ngulube said a unified approach involving all stakeholders ensures that every individual, regardless of background or economic status, receives the care and support they need.