Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Mr. Gaye TheVoice
Published on 2024-03-22 05:44:15
The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) of the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), World Health Organization (WHO), and other partners, recently held a two-day meeting to validate the draft Integrated Mission for Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy (IMPACT). The meeting, presided over by the Minister of Health, Honourable Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, took place at Metzy Hotel and Resort in Kotu and brought together a diverse group of national and international experts in the health sector.
During the validation meeting, Minister Samateh emphasized the importance of cancer care in The Gambia, noting that many Gambians are currently sent abroad for cancer treatment each year. He highlighted cervical cancer as the most common cancer among women in the country, followed by liver and breast cancer. For men, liver, lung, and prostate cancers were cited as the most prevalent in terms of incidence and mortality.
Minister Samateh expressed his gratitude for the support of the IAEA in the country’s fight against cancer, emphasizing that the government of The Gambia is deeply committed to addressing this issue and will not rely solely on external partners for assistance. He mentioned that the Ministry of Health has taken the initiative to establish a cancer program and has been advocating for the prioritization of cancer prevention and care in the country.
Dr. Momodou Gassama from the World Health Organization and Dr. Alfred Karagu from the International Atomic Energy Agency provided insights during the presentation and validation meeting. Additionally, Ms. Fatoumatta Jaiteh from the Ministry of Health presented a Situational Analysis of Cancer Control and the National Cancer Control Strategy (NCCS).
Minister Samateh acknowledged the IAEA for their support in addressing cancer in The Gambia, particularly in the context of cervical cancer being the most common type observed in the country. The efforts of the government, in collaboration with international partners, underscore the importance placed on enhancing cancer prevention and treatment initiatives in The Gambia.
Overall, the validation meeting served as a platform for experts to review and refine the draft Integrated Mission for Programme of Action for Cancer Therapy, demonstrating a concerted effort to strengthen cancer control and care in the country. The commitment and collaboration among stakeholders highlight a shared vision for improving cancer outcomes and healthcare delivery for the people of The Gambia.
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