A study has begun to determine the cause of cancer in the Maldives.
Speaking at the ceremony held to mark World Health Day, Health Minister Ahmed Naseem said efforts are underway to identify the health issues faced due to the food and living environment.
In particular, he said that research is underway with the World Health Organization (WHO) to investigate the causes of cancer in the Maldives.
"The main purpose of these efforts is to provide services to the people, to create awareness about health issues, to treat them, and to be 'resilient' in protecting the environment during pandemics and natural disasters," said the Minister at a ceremony held at Ghiyasuddin School.
In addition, the Minister said that the National Strategic Plan to Control Drugs will be launched in June. The drug study was also conducted with the assistance of WHO.
The number of deaths from cancer in the Maldives has been increasing from year to year. More than 100 people have died of cancer in 2020 alone.
As the number of cancer patients increases day by day, the government has decided to build a special hospital for the disease. Once the hospital in L. Gan comes into operation, patients will not have to travel abroad for cancer treatment, said the Ministry.
A special center for cancer patients is currently in Hulhumale' Hospital. However, due to lack of radiation treatment, cancer treatment has to be completed abroad.
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