As the world marks International Cancer Day on February 4, the Maldives finds itself in the midst of a growing battle against this formidable foe. With nearly two million people diagnosed with cancer globally each year and a death toll surpassing 600,000, the Maldives is not immune to the global health crisis. In a country where 84% of deaths are attributed to Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), 17% of these are caused by cancer, placing it firmly in the spotlight of the nation's health concerns.
The Hulhumale' Hospital, the primary government facility offering cancer services in the Maldives, stands as a beacon of hope for those grappling with this devastating disease. Initiated with a mere 10 patients undergoing chemotherapy five years ago, the hospital has witnessed a significant surge in demand for cancer treatment. Since its opening in October 2017, 1,386 patients have registered for cancer services, with 70 individuals currently receiving regular treatment, revealed Senior Registered Nurse at the Hulhumale' Hospital Fathimath Ihsana.
Patients often have to travel to the capital, Male' City, for cancer care, revealing a crucial need to decentralise these services. Recognising this gap, the government and Hulhumale' Hospital are working together to expand chemotherapy services to the atolls, ensuring accessibility for patients across the country. The service was expanded to the islands during the COVID-19 pandemic and now chemotherapy services are being provided at Addu City, Laamu Atoll Hospital, Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital, Thaa Atoll Hospital and Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital.
As per the statistics from Hulhumale' Hospital, the highest number of cancer cases from Male', Addu City, Haa Alifu Atoll, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Shaviyani Atoll and Raa Atoll.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is developing a Cancer Patient Registry to comprehensively understand the landscape of cancer in the Maldives. Assistant Public Health Officer at HPA Aishath Lubana highlighted that common cancers in the Maldives include breast, lung, blood, thyroid, and oral cancers. She said that the registry aims to study the incidence of the diseases, pinpointing key causes and paving the way for targeted public awareness campaigns and preventive strategies.
The struggle against cancer in the Maldives extends beyond treatment, reaching into the realm of financial burden and emotional distress for patients and their families. Acknowledging this, the government has committed to establishing a state-of-the-art cancer hospital to alleviate the suffering of its citizens.
Speaking to PSM News, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health Ashraf Ahmed detailed the services the hospital will offer, encompassing doctors, chemotherapy, tests, therapies, and dedicated accommodation for patient assistants.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Health has underscored the priority placed on this ambitious project, viewing it as a catalyst for a holistic transformation in cancer care within the Maldives. Once completed, the hospital aims to establish a comprehensive cancer service, marked by intensified efforts to reduce the incidence of cancer through awareness, prevention, and state-of-the-art medical intervention.
As the nation observes International Cancer Day, the Maldives is not just reflecting on the challenges but shaping a future where cancer is met with resilience, compassion, and comprehensive healthcare services. The journey is long, but with efforts from the government, healthcare professionals, and the community, the Maldives is poised to make significant strides in the battle against cancer.