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World Cancer Day: Call for unity amid national mourning

AS Namibia marked World Cancer Day yesterday, the country also remembered former president Hage Geingob, who succumbed to cancer on 4 February last year at the age of 82.

Geingob’s death highlights the urgent need for improved cancer awareness, early detection and better access to healthcare in Namibia.

Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) chief executive Rolf Hansen says the theme of this year’s World Cancer Day, ‘United by Unique’, highlights the importance of personalised cancer care, recognising each individual’s unique journey.

In a recently released statement, Hansen announced the call of the global campaign by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) for a shift towards a people-centred approach to cancer care.

The UICC estimates that 20 million new cancer cases were recorded globally in 2022, with nearly 10 million lives lost.
The ‘United by Unique’ campaign advocates for a fundamental shift in how cancer care is delivered, focusing on individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

UICC chief executive Cary Adams emphasises the need for equitable access to care, particularly in low-income settings.
“By understanding and integrating the needs and preferences of individuals and communities in healthcare delivery, health systems will provide more equitable access to care.

It is important that people living with cancer feel seen, heard and empowered.
“The campaign calls for a fundamental shift in cancer care and health systems worldwide towards a people-centred approach,” Adams says.

A NATION’S LOSS
Geingob’s battle with cancer was publicly acknowledged last January when the Presidency announced he was undergoing treatment.

The former president had announced that he was undergoing medical treatment as “cancerous cells” were discovered in his body following a gastroscopy and colonoscopy.
His death serves as a stark reminder of the disease’s indiscriminate nature, affecting individuals regardless of status or wealth.

UNITY
Hansen says while each cancer journey is different, a collective effort is necessary to combat the disease.

“On World Cancer Day, we stand united by uniqueness, celebrating the strength of every individual affected by cancer and the power of collective action. At CAN, we recognise that every journey is different, but together, we form a community of hope, resilience and support,” he says.

Despite Namibia’s healthcare challenges, Hansen urges the government, private sector and civil society to collaborate in making cancer treatment accessible to all.

“. . . so that every Namibian, unique as they are, has the opportunity to fight cancer when diagnosed.
“We are proud to help shape national health policies in cancer care and advance palliative care to make a real difference in the lives of Namibians affected by cancer,” he says.

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