MINISTRY OF HEALTH LAUNCHES 2026 WORLD CANCER DAY COMMEMORATION.

The Ministry of Health launched the 2026 World Cancer Day commemoration at Chainda Grounds in Lusaka, embracing the global theme “United by Unique,” which emphasizes collective action while honoring the individual experiences of people affected by cancer.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Health Dr. Elijah J. Muchima described cancer as one of Zambia’s most devastating health challenges and called for urgent action to strengthen prevention, early detection, and access to quality cancer care. He said Zambia records over 15,000 new cancer cases annually and more than 9,000 cancer-related deaths, with breast and cervical cancer among the leading cancers. 

Dr. Muchima noted that cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early, but nearly 60 percent of patients do not survive due to late presentation. He also cited the Ndola Cancer Centre as a key milestone in government’s efforts to decentralise specialised cancer services beyond Lusaka.

Cancer survivors also shared messages of hope and awareness. A cervical cancer survivor, Hellen, urged women and girls to go for regular screening and encouraged parents to vaccinate children aged 9 to 14 against HPV. 

Meanwhile, Felicity, a breast cancer survivor of five years, said cancer is not a death sentence and appealed to women to seek medical attention promptly when they notice warning signs. Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cancer prevention, screening, and treatment services nationwide.