Cancer a leading death cause in Zimbabwe

This year, Cimas Health Group dedicated its annual marathon events to raising awareness about men's health, with a particular focus on prostate cancer, one of Zimbabwe's leading causes of death among men.

The decision comes against the backdrop of alarming statistics from the Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry, highlighting prostate cancer as the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, accounting for 11% of cancer-related fatalities.
A National Health Crisis

Cancer has become a pressing public health issue in Zimbabwe, exacerbated by the country's deteriorating healthcare infrastructure. According to the registry, cervical cancer remains the top cause of cancer deaths among women, responsible for 12% of all cancer-related deaths in the country.

In 2019 alone, Zimbabwe recorded 2,416 cancer deaths in major cities like Harare, Chitungwiza, and Bulawayo. Of these, 1,136 (47%) were male and 1,280 (53%) were female. The statistics underscore a growing health crisis, with cervical and prostate cancers emerging as significant contributors to the mortality rate.
Prostate Cancer Awareness

Cimas' initiative aims to highlight the need for early detection and treatment of prostate cancer, which can significantly improve survival rates. Unfortunately, the country's failing healthcare system poses a challenge. A lack of adequate facilities, equipment, and trained personnel has made it difficult for many patients to access timely and effective cancer care.

Speaking during the marathon event, a Cimas representative emphasized the importance of awareness campaigns:

"Prostate cancer is a silent killer for many men in Zimbabwe, often going undetected until it's too late. Our marathon events aim to shed light on this critical issue and encourage men to prioritize regular check-ups and early diagnosis."

A Call for Action

Zimbabwe's healthcare system has struggled to meet the growing demand for cancer treatment. With limited access to diagnostic tools, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, the survival chances for cancer patients remain bleak.

Medical professionals and advocacy groups have called for urgent investment in the country's healthcare infrastructure to address the cancer epidemic. Enhanced awareness campaigns, coupled with better access to screening and treatment, could help reduce the mortality rate.

Cimas' initiative is a timely reminder of the pressing need to tackle cancer and other non-communicable diseases in Zimbabwe, ensuring better health outcomes for the population.