Next 20 years crucial in cancer fight

Abu Dhabi - Over 30 per cent of cancers can be prevented through the adoption of healthy lifestyles.

Prevalence of cancer in the region will double in the next 20 years, if no significant action is taken in this regard, a top official has said. Over 400,000 people fall victim and lose the battle to cancer every year in the region.
Dr Ala Alwan, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, said: "Regrettably, evidence shows that cancer rates continue to rise globally and regionally because of unhealthy lifestyles and limited access to treatment."
The WHO called on governments to provide access to quality cancer care and on communities and individuals to lead healthier life styles.
As cancer has become one of the world's biggest threat to humanity, various organisations and initiatives took in solidarity to World Cancer Week, held recently in the UAE.
Although cancer is the second leading cause of death in Abu Dhabi according to the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi (HAAD), over 30 per cent of cancers can be prevented through the adoption of healthy lifestyles.
"In the next 20 years, cancer rates in our region are expected to almost double, from an estimated 555,318 new cases in 2012 to nearly 961,098 in 2030 - the highest relative increase among all WHO regions," said Dr Alwan.
The UAE is working hard on improving health awareness and helping the community find ways to detect cancer in the early stages.
It is equally vital for the community to also work together and come up with further educational programmes that may help diffuse key messages on signs and symptoms.
Amal Al Haddabi, President of Positive Cancer Foundation said that creating dynamic awareness on the deadly disease is critical.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi