The Health Ministry issued a statement on World Cancer Awareness Day, saying that this disease does not discriminate.
"It can affect people of all ages and any part of the body. Fortunately, advances in medicine and surgery are improving treatment outcomes," it said.
In Malta, the government has a clear vision on how the population should tackle this disease-a vision aligned with the European Council's 'Beating Cancer Plan'. The Government's strategy consists of three pillars.
The first is prevention. "Through the extension of medical services in Primary Care, more opportunities are being provided for individuals to have direct contact with their family doctor, who can now more easily directly order tests such as blood analysis, stool tests, and ultrasound screenings. The Public Health Department has also launched a campaign for a new Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) strategy, which includes obesity-one of the risk factors for cancer. The Government is committed to investing further in HPV vaccination for young people to eradicate cervical cancer in women, as well as other related cancers."
The second is diagnosis. "The Government's efforts to improve diagnostic equipment are reflected in strong and continuous investment in MRI, CT Scan, Mammography, Ultrasound, PET-CT, SPECT CT, and endoscopic equipment across Mater Dei Hospital, the Gozo General Hospital, and the Day Hospital at St Vincent de Paul. The Screening Unit will be relocated and will lower the eligible age for bowel and breast cancer screenings. Additionally, the unit will introduce structured screening for lung, prostate, and pancreatic tumours."
The third is treatment. "The Government has recently invested in a sophisticated MR Linac machine, unique in the region, and will continue investing in radiotherapy equipment. The government also invested in robotic surgery technology and is investing in a Blood and Tissue Products Centre. Moreover, new oncological medicines are being regularly added to the Government formulary."
Minister for Health and Active Ageing, Jo Etienne Abela paid tribute to cancer patients and their loved ones, expressing gratitude to the health professionals dedicated to their care.
"I am convinced that with our vision and a strong budget, we will continue making a difference in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It is crucial that we keep investing not only in equipment but also in the training of our professionals, who consistently provide dedicated service," concluded Minister Abela.