Ministry of Health has introduced a five-year National Cancer Control Plan of Maldives (NCCP).
The NCCP 2022-2026 was inaugurated at a ceremony by Minister of Health and Representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO) to the Maldives Dr. Nazneen Anwar.
At the ceremony, Minister Naseem said 17% of deaths in the Maldives are caused by cancer and that the number of citizens seeking cancer treatment are increasing. He noted that many individuals can reduce the risk of cancer just by changing their lifestyle and that the government will focus on building a healthy community.
Additionally, Minister Naseem said the government will begin implementing the plan in April and that it will include inspecting imported food products and relocating fiberglass businesses. He added that the plan will allow all relevant institutions to work together.
The NCCP is the first targeted cancer control strategy proposed for the country. It aims to respond to the challenges faced in administering optimal care for cancer patients by focusing on core areas of cancer control.
The strategic objectives of the plan consists of scaling up prevention through health promotion, ensuring early detection and timely diagnosis, promoting evidence-based treatment without financial burden, expanding coverage of palliative and supportive care, and establishing cancer registry and conducting research.