HPA Steps Up Cancer Data Collection Amid Rising Cases

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is working to finalize a comprehensive cancer statistics compilation for the Greater Male' Region by the end of the year. With a notable rise in cancer cases and no previous data compilation, the HPA is focusing on creating a cancer patient registry and identifying individuals affected by the disease.

Public Health Coordinator Abdulla Muaz Adam told PSM News that the collection and digitization of cancer statistics are already in progress. Over 1,400 patients currently receiving treatment at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and Hulhumale' Hospital are included in this initial phase. The registry aims to provide insights into the most common cancer types and associated risk factors in the Maldives.

HPA also plans to conduct cancer screenings and awareness campaigns across various islands and atolls. Hulhumale' Hospital has reported the highest number of cancer cases, especially from Male' City, Addu City, and several northern atolls.

The Cancer Patient Registry will help in understanding cancer trends and improving treatment strategies. Currently, breast, lung, blood, thyroid, and oral cancers are the most common. With major cancer treatments often required abroad, the government is also working on establishing a state-of-the-art cancer hospital in the Maldives to ease the financial and logistical burdens on patients. Non-communicable diseases, including cancer, account for 84% of deaths in the Maldives, with cancer alone responsible for 17%.