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Abstract
Abstract
Cancer represents a major public health challenge in Zambia, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality while exerting increasing pressure on the healthcare system. Recent estimates suggest that Zambia recorded approximately 13,000 new cancer cases and over 9,000 cancer-related deaths in 2022, with cervical cancer being the predominant cancer among women and prostate cancer the most prevalent among men. The cancer burden is further exacerbated by the high prevalence of infection-related cancers linked to HIV, as well as issues such as late diagnosis, stigma, limited specialist services, and unequal access to screening, diagnostic, treatment, and palliative care services.
Despite notable advancements, including the expansion of HPV vaccination, improvements in cancer registration, and gradual decentralization of cancer services, significant gaps persist. These include limited pathology and imaging capacity, inadequate oncology infrastructure, shortages in human resources, weak referral systems, and insufficient domestic financing for cancer care. This editorial contends that addressing Zambia’s rising cancer burden necessitates urgent system strengthening, anchored in early detection, sustainable financing, improved data utilization, integrated service delivery, community engagement, and multi-sectoral collaboration. A more robust and equitable cancer response is crucial for enhancing survival rates, reducing suffering, and advancing national health security.