Latest news with #NationalCancerRegistry
The South African
6 hours ago
- Health
- The South African
NGO highlights mental health support for men with prostate cancer
A prostate cancer diagnosis can take its toll on men's mental health. That's according to mental health advocacy organisation, the South African Federation for Mental Health (SAFMH). July marks Men's Health Month, which raises awareness of preventable health problems in men and boys. SAFMH is marking the month under the theme 'Prostate cancer and men's mental health'. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting men around the world. This was recently highlighted when former US President Joe Biden announced his diagnosis in May. About 1 in 15 South African men will be diagnosed with the condition at some point in their lifetime, according to the 2022 National Cancer Registry. However, if detected early, the cancer can be treated and overcome. According to SAFMH, research increasingly highlights the importance of mental healthcare for patients with the condition. In fact, men with the diagnosis have a higher risk of developing mental health conditions. Cancer patients commonly experience anxiety and depression. Men with prostate cancer may also experience treatment side effects that impact on sexual health. In turn, that can negatively affect mood and relationships. In an article, SAFMH shared the experience of David, a patient who faced the condition. He described the impact of the diagnosis on his mental health: 'What if the medication didn't work? What if I suffered the same fate as my friend's father? I went from feeling angry to feeling uncertain, which led to a feeling of desperation.' Encouragingly, however, research indicates that long-term mental health support for men with the diagnosis could assist with increasing their life expectancy. David encourages men with prostate cancer to seek professional mental health support, and to communicate openly with their loved ones. He said: 'Be willing to discuss and communicate your feelings, fears, and physical condition openly with your loved ones and your therapist. That is the only way for them to understand what you are going through, and that makes it easier for them to adjust and assist you with coping with the cancer. He added: 'Most importantly, do not lose hope. Take it one day at a time, be kind to yourself and to those around you. Stick to your treatment plan even if it is hard…In the end, it's worth it!' SAFMH highlights the following organisations for South Africans facing a prostate cancer diagnosis: CANSA: offers resources and support options Cancer Alliance: resources and support groups For general mental health support, you can contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) hotline on 0800 567 567. Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
27-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
National Cancer Registry and partners to unveil Cancer Survivors Month plans
The National Cancer Registry (NCR), based at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), will collaborate with Living with Cancer South Africa, a non-profit organisation, and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) to host a pre-launch event for Cancer Survivors Month on Tuesday, May 27. Observed annually in June, Cancer Survivors Month celebrates the strength, resilience, and perseverance of individuals who have overcome cancer. 'It is a time to honour their courage, acknowledge their journey, and offer support to those still battling the disease,' the statement read. At the pre-launch, the three organisations will pay tribute to cancer survivors and unveil a symbolic giant ribbon statue, which will be installed at the NICD. The statue was sponsored by Johan Groenewald, who lost his beloved wife, Heidi, to cancer in October last year. This gesture serves as a heartfelt tribute and a symbol of remembrance for all families affected by the disease. Head of the NCR, Dr Mazvita Muchengeti, said he was looking forward to unveiling plans for Cancer Survivors Month, developed in collaboration with our partners. 'It is important to commemorate survivors and provide a space for those who have lost loved ones to reflect and remember,' Muchengeti said. These sentiments were echoed by Belinda Wagner, founder of Living with Cancer SA, who started the organisation in 2017 after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Wagner said Cancer Survivors Month is more than a celebration – it is a call to recognise every life touched by cancer. 'This initiative gives voice to the silent strength of survivors, the enduring love of families, and the memories of those we have lost. Through this partnership with the National Cancer Registry, we are honouring journeys of survival and igniting awareness, advocacy, and action for a better future in cancer care,' Wagner added. Since 1986, the NCR has conducted pathology-based cancer surveillance, where data on cancer cases diagnosed by histology, cytology, and bone marrow aspirate and trephine are collected, analysed, and reported annually. Meanwhile, Living with Cancer SA was established by Wagner in 2017, while CANSA has been a leader in the fight against cancer in South Africa since 1931, leading the country towards a cancer-free society. CANSA is a leading role-player in cancer research, and the scientific findings and knowledge gained from research are used to realign health programmes, as well as strengthen the watchdog role to the greater benefit of the public. – At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Fashion Value Chain
29-04-2025
- Health
- Fashion Value Chain
Groundbreaking Laser Surgery for Rare Vulvar Cancer Successfully Performed at Surya Hospitals
Advanced laser technology offers new hope for patients with Vulvar Pagets Disease First-of-its-kind procedure offers new paradigm for treating Extra Mammary Pagets Disease In a significant medical breakthrough, surgeons at Surya Hospitals have successfully performed what experts believe is Indias first laser-assisted vulvectomy with clitorectomy for the treatment of Vulvar Pagets Disease (EMPD), an exceptionally rare form of cancer affecting the external genital region. The procedure was performed on a 70-year-old patient who had endured two years of progressive vulvar discomfort, misdiagnosed as a fungal infection. When conventional treatments proved ineffective, advanced diagnostic testing revealed the presence of EMPD, which affects less than 0.11 per 100,000 women annually, according to recent epidemiological data from the International Journal of Gynaecological Cancer. The landmark three-hour operation was executed by a specialised team led by Dr. Sejal Ajmera, Consultant – (Functional & Aesthetic Gynaecology), and Dr. Samar Gupte, Consultant – (Gynaecology-Oncology) at Surya Hospitals. 'By harnessing the complementary capabilities of CO2 and Diode laser systems, weve redefined the surgical approach to this challenging condition,' explained Dr. Ajmera. 'The precision afforded by this technology allows for meticulous tissue preservation while ensuring complete tumor eradication.' The innovative approach delivered compelling advantages compared to conventional surgical methods: 65% reduction in intraoperative blood loss 48% decrease in post-surgical pain scores reported by the patient Hospital stays shortened from the typical 7-10 days to just 3 days Significant reduction in wound healing complications According to the National Cancer Registry Program of Indias latest report, while vulvar malignancies represent only 4% of gynaecological cancers nationally, delayed diagnosis remains common, with nearly 60% of cases identified at advanced stages. 'This groundbreaking procedure exemplifies the transformative potential of interdisciplinary collaboration,' noted Dr. Gupte. 'By integrating functional gynaecology expertise with oncological principles, weve developed a treatment paradigm that addresses both disease elimination and quality of life preservation.' The procedure underscores Surya Hospitals dedication to advancing medical frontiers through technological innovation and specialized care. The hospitals Center for Gynaecologic Excellence has reported a 42% increase in successfully treated complex gynaecological conditions over the past fiscal year. About Surya Hospitals Surya Hospitals is a beacon of excellence in healthcare services for Women and Children. With our legacy, we have evolved into a prominent chain of hospitals, standing as one of the most trusted choices for patients, shaping healthy beginnings and bright tomorrows.
Arabian Business
06-04-2025
- Health
- Arabian Business
UAE to vaccinate 90 per cent of girls against HPV
The UAE has announced plans to vaccinate 90 per cent of girls against HPV before the age of 15 by 2030. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) stressed that the proactive national strategy to combat the human papillomavirus (HPV) to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and other diseases associated with the virus. The strategy was launched as part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to promote public health and prevent communicable diseases. UAE HPV vaccination MoHAP clarified that the national plan aims to vaccinate 90 per cent of girls against HPV before the age of 15 by 2030, while also ensuring early screening for cervical cancer starting at age 25. In addition, the plan includes providing advanced treatment for affected individuals in line with the highest international standards, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to the global strategy to eliminate cervical cancer. As part of the strategy and in 2018, the UAE became the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean region to include the HPV vaccine in its national immunisation programme for females, targeting schoolgirls aged 13 to 14 as part of this strategy. Meanwhile, in 2023, taking another step forward, the ministry expanded the HPV vaccination programme to include males aged 13 to 14 years, further enhancing community protection and preventing HPV-related diseases in both genders. Emphasising its commitment to raising awareness about HPV, the Ministry noted that the UAE will double its efforts to meet international standards in prevention, early detection, and treatment. This commitment was recognised by the World Health Organisation, which praised the effectiveness of the UAE's national immunisation programme and its integration of the HPV vaccine into a cutting-edge immunisation system. The Ministry said that its strategy follows a comprehensive public health approach, focused on prevention, awareness, and the use of advanced immunisation technologies. These efforts are also closely aligned with the 'Year of Community', a nationwide initiative that views health awareness as a shared responsibility—one that depends on the active collaboration of individuals, institutions, and the wider society. The Ministry stressed that promoting a culture of early screening and vaccination is key to strengthening community health—an approach that aligns with the UAE's vision of ensuring a high quality of life and building a healthy, thriving society. According to official statistics from the National Cancer Registry, cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women in the UAE, with national incidence rates lower than the global average—thanks to the country's proactive and effective preventive policies. The ministry emphasised the importance of regular cervical cancer screening for women aged 25 to 65, recommending testing every three to five years to ensure early detection and significantly improve chances of recovery.
Dubai Eye
05-04-2025
- Health
- Dubai Eye
UAE expands cancer prevention plan
The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing the incidence of cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases through a proactive national strategy. Launched as part of ongoing efforts to enhance public health, the strategy aims to significantly reduce the spread of human papillomavirus (HPV) across the country. The national plan, which sets a goal of vaccinating 90% of girls against HPV by the age of 15 by 2030, includes two key components: widespread vaccination and early cervical cancer screening. The initiative will also ensure the availability of advanced treatment options for those affected by HPV, in line with the highest international standards. The UAE became the first country in the Eastern Mediterranean region to introduce the HPV vaccine into its national immunisation programme in 2018, initially targeting schoolgirls aged 13 to 14. The programme was expanded in 2023 to include males of the same age group, marking another significant step towards universal HPV protection and preventing related diseases for both genders. MoHAP emphasised its dedication to raising awareness about the importance of vaccination and early detection, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to the global effort to eliminate cervical cancer. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has praised the country's national immunisation programme, recognizing its integration of the HPV vaccine into a cutting-edge health system. The strategy also aligns with the UAE's "Year of Community" initiative, promoting a collective responsibility in health awareness. MoHAP stressed that encouraging early screening and vaccination is essential to building a healthier society, in line with the UAE's broader vision for a high quality of life. Official statistics from the National Cancer Registry reveal that cervical cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women in the UAE, although national incidence rates remain lower than the global average. MoHAP recommends regular cervical cancer screenings for women aged 25 to 65, advising tests every three to five years to ensure early detection and improve recovery outcomes.
