Do People Really Care About Cancer In Africa?
Cancer, a disease once considered a rare occurrence in Africa, has become a growing concern on the continent. With the rising incidence of cancer cases and deaths, it is imperative to ask: do people really care about cancer in Africa? The answer is a resounding yes, and for good reason.
Firstly, cancer is a significant public health problem in Africa, with the continent experiencing a disproportionate share of the global cancer burden. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), there were over 846,000 new cancer cases and 591,000 cancer deaths in Africa in 2020 alone. These numbers are projected to double by 2040, making cancer a major health crisis on the continent.
Secondly, cancer affects not only individuals but also families, communities, and economies. In Africa, where healthcare systems are often inadequate and resources are scarce, cancer diagnosis and treatment can be catastrophic for families, leading to financial ruin, social isolation, and emotional trauma. Furthermore, the loss of productive members of society due to cancer can have significant economic implications, hindering development and perpetuating poverty.
Thirdly, the disproportionate impact of cancer on vulnerable populations in Africa, such as women, children, and those living in poverty, is a major concern. For example, cervical cancer, which is preventable through vaccination and screening, is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Africa. Similarly, childhood cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma, are often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging.
Fourthly, the lack of access to cancer care and treatment in Africa is a significant barrier to effective cancer control. Many African countries lack the necessary infrastructure, equipment, and trained healthcare professionals to provide quality cancer care. This results in delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poor outcomes.
Finally, the global community has a moral obligation to care about cancer in Africa. The continent is home to over 1.3 billion people, many of whom are young, vibrant, and full of potential. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that they have access to quality healthcare, including cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
In conclusion, people should care about cancer in Africa because it is a significant public health burden, affects vulnerable populations, and has far-reaching economic and social implications. So therefore, Cancel Cancer Africa is motivated to help reduce the rate of mortality and Morbidity caused by cancer in rural Africa. This is why we do what we do in countries like Nigeria and Kenya in Africa to help raise awareness of what we stand for in combatting cancer in Africa.
Editor
Eghosa Ihaza.