By Respondent Reporter
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy,Dr. Doto Biteko, has hailed veteran academic and politician Prof. Mark Mwandosya as a national hero in the fight against cancer, following the official launch of his memoir, Living with Cancer: Diaries of a Multiple Myeloma Patient.
Speaking at the launch event in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Biteko praised Prof. Mwandosya for his courage and resilience in living with Multiple Myeloma a rare form of blood cancer for over 14 years.
"Prof. Mwandosya is living proof that with timely medical care and a positive outlook, it is possible to survive cancer and lead a meaningful life," Dr. Biteko said. "His story offers hope to many and encourages Tanzanians to seek proper diagnosis and treatment without fear."
The memoir recounts Prof. Mwandosya’s personal journey with the disease, offering insights into the physical, mental, and spiritual challenges he has faced, while conveying a message of hope and perseverance.
"A cancer diagnosis should not be seen as a death sentence," Prof. Mwandosya said at the event. "It is a journey of living, of finding purpose and strength even in the face of adversity."
Dr. Biteko commended the author for choosing to publicly share his experience, saying the book will help raise awareness and potentially save lives.
"This is not just a book; it is a gift to the nation," he added. "It underscores the importance of accurate information and the need for a cultural shift towards regular health screening."
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Clara Chamba a hematologist and lecturer at Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) urged Tanzanians to embrace early screening and a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical exercise.
The Ministry of Health has continued to invest in strengthening diagnostic and treatment services for cancer across the country, according to officials. These efforts are aimed at increasing early detection rates and improving patient outcomes.