Abdul Wali Haqqani, the Administrative Deputy Minister of Public Health, stated that the most common types of cancer in Afghanistan are stomach and esophageal cancer among men and breast cancer among women.
Additionally, Haqqani announced the activation of a 200-bed hospital dedicated to cancer treatment in the country, emphasizing that this center has started providing services to cancer patients.
During a ceremony marking World Cancer Day, which was held late by the ministry, Haqqani said, “A 200-bed hospital, previously belonging to the Administrative and Civil Service Reform Commission, has been allocated by the Ministry of Public Health for cancer treatment. This center is now officially providing services to cancer patients.”
Mohammad Tahir Haleem, head of the Ministry of Public Health office, called on the international community to assist Afghanistan in improving healthcare services, particularly in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
“Do not leave us alone in terms of healthcare. Humanitarian and medical aid to Afghanistan must continue to help control cancer,” he said.
Khalid Ahmad Khalid, head of the Oncology Hospital, referred to development programs and stated, “In my opinion, in the next three years, our fellow citizens will no longer need to travel abroad for cancer treatment, as the necessary facilities will be available within the country.”
The representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Afghanistan also announced that until September 2027, with financial support from the European Union and other international organizations, WHO will support the Kabul Cancer Hospital and local treatment centers in Mazar and Herat.
Delara Manuel, WHO’s representative, said, “This year and until September 2027, with donor funding support from the European Union, WHO Afghanistan is proud to announce the support to improve the cancer care services at the National Cancer Hospital of MOPH here in Kabul, including the current cancer satellite clinics that are located in Masar and Herat.”
February 4 is observed as World Cancer Day. This day, proposed in 2008, aims to raise awareness, promote prevention, encourage early diagnosis, and support cancer treatment.
However, this year, Afghanistan’s Ministry of Public Health observed the day with a delay.
