By Sifras Kingamkono
As Tanzania marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, health experts at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) have urged citizens to prioritize early screening and embrace preventive lifestyles to reduce rising breast cancer cases.
Speaking during a media seminar in Dar es Salaam, Acting Executive Director of ORCI, Dr. Crispin Kahesa, emphasized that access to breast cancer services is now available across the country and that journalists play a vital role in educating the public.
“Journalists are a key pillar in spreading accurate information and eliminating misconceptions. Cancer does not discriminate—it can affect anyone. Every woman should regularly examine herself and seek medical checks for early detection,” said Dr. Kahesa.
He noted that breast cancer affects about 4,500 Tanzanian women annually, and one in two diagnosed patients dies within five years due to late detection.
“Only five out of every 100 women undergo screening,” he added.
Dr. Kahesa explained that the government, in collaboration with health institutions, is committed to ensuring equitable access to cancer services.
“Those who can afford treatment will contribute, while those who cannot will still receive care. Screening services are now available even at the district level,” he said, adding that ORCI will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2026.
Cancer specialist Dr. Johnson Katanga shared alarming global statistics, revealing that in 2022, about 22 million people were diagnosed with cancer worldwide, while 9.7 million died.
“In Tanzania, 29,743 new cancer cases were recorded in 2022, with around 60 percent being breast cancer,” he said.
He listed modifiable risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity as major contributors to cancer.
“Unmodifiable risks include age, gender, and family history. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk,” he said.
Dr. Katanga also emphasized preventive measures such as raising awareness, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and promoting vaccination against HPV and Hepatitis B, which help prevent related cancers.
Dr. Stephano Maguhwa, another ORCI specialist, said breast cancer is the second most common cancer both globally and in Tanzania.
He assured that Tanzania has advanced medical technology for cancer treatment, including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, provided by highly trained specialists.
“Cancer is treatable if detected early. Everyone should make health checkups an annual habit,” he urged.
Radiation therapist Fredrick Ludovick added that modern radiotherapy treatments are safe, effective, and tailored to each patient’s needs.
“Not every tumor requires surgery—treatment plans depend on the cancer type and stage. The goal is to cure or reduce suffering,” he explained.
Cancer survivors also shared their experiences. Ms. Batuli Ramadhani, diagnosed in 2002, and Ms. Ostadhi Ramadhani Musha, diagnosed in 2005, expressed gratitude for ORCI’s care but called on the government to improve access to cancer medicines.
“I am thankful for the compassionate service at Ocean Road. At first, treatment was only for those who could pay, but now all patients are served equally,” said Ms. Ostadhi.
Health experts instisted that public education, early detection, and collaboration among the community, journalists, and health professionals are essential in reducing cancer-related deaths in Tanzania.