The administration has revealed an average of 53 cancer patients seek treatment every month at the Oncology Department of the main government hospital, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH).
Speaking at the second edition of the cancer forum Onco-Spectra, hosted by State Trading Organisation (STO), Minister at the President’s Office Ali Shiyam said the introduction of cancer treatment services in Maldives has helped several cancer patients in the country, noting it provides psychological and financial relief as it has removed the need to travel abroad and spend heavily on treatment. The minister said 610 patients have sought treatment from the Cancer Centre established in Hulhumale’ in 2017, while an average of 53 patients seek treatment every month at the Oncology Department of IGMH, which was established in 2018.
The forum hosted by STO aims to create a platform for healthcare professionals to present and discuss the current cancer burden in Maldives. Objectives of the forum include endorsing treatments for cancers, formulating planned training in the field and promoting the study and research of cancers. The forum is attended by officials from STO, IGMH, Cancer Society of Maldives and Hulhumale’ Hospital.
Speaking at the inauguration of the forum, Managing Director of STO Hussain Amr said identifying preventive measures against cancer is just as important as providing cancer treatment, noting prevention is better than cure. He added positive lifestyle changes are needed in order to stay safe from cancer.
The managing director also said the topic of cancer must be discussed across more platforms, adding research in the field needs to be developed in Maldives. He said the main purpose of hosting such a forum was to raise public awareness on cancer and to encourage more proactive measures against the disease.