60% of Cancer Patients in Zambia Do Not Survive – MoH

Zambia records 15,000 new cancer cases each year, with 60% of those diagnosed failing to survive, Health Minister Dr Elijah Muchima has disclosed. According to Dr Muchima, more than 9,000 Zambians die from cancer annually, highlighting the heavy burden the disease places on the country.

Speaking during the commemoration of World Cancer Day on Wednesday, Dr Muchima stressed that cancer is treatable if detected early, particularly at stages one and two. However, he noted that most patients only seek medical attention when the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, which significantly reduces their chances of survival.

“The statistics remain a sobering call to action,” Dr Muchima said. “Globally, one in five people will develop cancer in their lifetime. Here at home, the burden is heavy. We must prioritise awareness, early detection, and access to treatment to save lives.”

Dr Muchima urged the public to be vigilant about cancer symptoms and to seek medical advice promptly, emphasising that early intervention can dramatically improve outcomes.