By: Ismael Kasooha
KAMPALA
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has asked Uganda Cancer Institute, Mulago to prioritize the prevention of cancer to reduce the high numbers at the institute.
Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells divide uncontrollably and destroy body tissue.
The World Health Organization estimates that between 30–50% of all cancers are avoidable by preventing or reducing exposure to cancer risk factors.
The Premier Rt. Hon. Nabbanja Robinah talking to some clients at the Uganda Cancer Instittute Mulago on Wednesday
Nabbanja had made an on spot check on the operations of the Uganda Cancer Institute after reports of growing number of cancer patients at the institute.
While interacting with the Dr. Jackson Orem, the Executive Director of Uganda Cancer Institute and other top management officials, Nabbanja wondered why the Institute does not put emphasis on prevention rather than treatment.
She said that the cancer problem is bigger than even some outbreaks like Ebola because it affects the performance of the citizens because they are most times in hospital for treatment.
Nabbanja commended the health workers at the Cancer Institute for their commitment to serve the nation despite the numerous challenges they go through.
She assured the public of government’s willingness to work with the Cancer Institute to ensure that drugs and other forms of treatment are available at the facility.
Inspection of construction works at Uganda Cancer Institute, Mulago
Based on the current cancer incidence, a majority of the top seven cancers in Uganda, that account for 70% of new cancer cases, can be prevented by modifying their risk factors.
Some of the risk factors include old age, personal or family history of cancer, use of tobacco, obesity, alcoholism, some types of viral infections, such as Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), specific chemicals and Exposure to radiation, including ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
End
