Doha: The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), in collaboration with its partners in the health sector, is joining the global community in marking World Cancer Day on 4 February, under the theme "United by Unique".
According to Qatar News Agency, the observance of World Cancer Day is a leading example of active partnership and ongoing collaboration between the MoPH and key stakeholders in cancer control, including Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, and Qatar Cancer Society (QCS). The initiative aims to promote access to people-centred health systems, highlight the unique nature of each cancer journey from diagnosis to recovery, dispel myths and stigma associated with the disease, and educate the public on cancer prevention, early detection, and the importance of timely diagnosis.
Director of the Department of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Programmes at MoPH Sheikh Dr Mohamed bin Hamad Al-Thani emphasized that World Cancer Day serves as a reminder of the shared responsibilities in prevention and timely diagnosis. He stated the ministry's commitment to continue working with partners across all sectors to reduce risk factors, expand access to evidence-based services, and ensure timely access to screening and care for everyone.
QCS Chairman Sheikh Dr Khalid bin Jabr Al-Thani highlighted the importance of people-centred care in cancer treatment, noting Qatar's progress in developing a comprehensive healthcare system. He emphasized QCS's role in supporting individuals living with cancer, enhancing community awareness, and collaborating with national and international partners to improve cancer care outcomes and quality of life.
Dr. Mohamed Salem, Chief Executive Officer and Medical Director of the HMC National Centre for Cancer Care and Research, reiterated HMC's commitment to providing world-class cancer care through an integrated, patient-centred approach. He stressed the importance of partnerships across the healthcare sector in delivering comprehensive and timely cancer services.
PHCC's Dr Shaikha Abu Shaikha underscored the significance of raising community awareness to reduce cancer's impact. She encouraged participation in breast and bowel screening programs and highlighted the role of these initiatives in protecting community health and well-being.
Dr. Chiara Cugno from Sidra Medicine emphasized the holistic approach to paediatric cancer care, focusing not just on treating the disease but caring for the entire child. She reaffirmed Sidra Medicine's commitment to equitable, life-saving care for children in Qatar, ensuring timely access to specialized treatment.
MoPH continues to advocate for a prevention-oriented approach to cancer, aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the National Health Strategy. This approach focuses on reducing risk factors, strengthening health awareness, expanding access to screening and diagnostic services, and harnessing data and innovation to improve health outcomes and lessen the burden of cancer and other non-communicable diseases.