Zambia records 16,500 new cancer cases annually

University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Cancer Diseases Hospital (CDH) has disclosed that Zambia records approximately 16,500 new cancer cases and 9,700 cancer-related deaths annually, with cervical cancer accounting for the highest number of cases. UTH-CDH Acting Senior Medical…

University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Cancer Diseases Hospital (CDH) has disclosed that Zambia records approximately 16,500 new cancer cases and 9,700 cancer-related deaths annually, with cervical cancer accounting for the highest number of cases.

UTH-CDH Acting Senior Medical Superintendent, Paul Kamfwa, says the country records about 4,700 new cervical cancer cases every year, with more than half of the affected patients dying from the disease.

Dr Kamfwa made the remarks during a community cleaning exercise conducted by Zambia Correctional Service Officers to commemorate Africa Corrections Day at the Cancer Diseases Hospital in Lusaka.

He disclosed that about 3,000 of the 16,500 cancer patients recorded countrywide are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

Meanwhile, Zambia Correctional Service Commissioner-General, Fredrick Chilukutu said the Service is committed to community engagement as part of efforts to promote safer and more resilient communities.

Mr Chilukutu, represented by ZCS Deputy Commissioner-General, Crispin Kaonga said correctional facilities should not only focus on custody but also equip inmates with skills, healthcare, education and opportunities for successful reintegration into society.

He also highlighted the need to strengthen healthcare services in correctional facilities through medical screening, disease prevention, health education and access to treatment.

Mr Chilukutu said the Service is placing greater emphasis on the mental health and overall well-being of inmates and correctional officers.

He has called for continued collaboration among government institutions, development partners, civil society organisations and regional correctional services to improve correctional management.