Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has warned that the increasing number of cancer cases poses a serious threat to national productivity, calling for coordinated and strategic action to address the growing challenge.
The Minister made the remarks while speaking at the opening ceremony of a symposium held to mark World Cancer Day. He said there remains much that Maldivian society can do collectively to prevent and control cancer.
The Minister noted that around 1,900 people have been registered in the National Register of Cancer Diseases, since 2017, with patients receiving treatment between 2017 and 2025. This averages more than 230 new registrations each year.
“This means that almost every two or three days, a new case is being registered. This is extremely alarming and deeply concerning,” the Minister said, stressing the need for responsible authorities to work more closely on prevention and response measures.
He said tackling cancer requires action at multiple levels, beginning with the establishment of a reliable and comprehensive data system. He also highlighted the need to mobilise resources to expand healthcare services and promote healthier lifestyles across society.
Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim said unplanned responses would not be sufficient, emphasising that cancer control requires structured and strategic interventions. He noted that the impact of cancer extends beyond health, significantly affecting productivity and placing a heavy burden on society.
The Minister said the government is working across several fronts in line with national health policy, including strengthening governance and resourcing of cancer-related services through the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the National Social Protection system. He also highlighted recent measures taken to control tobacco use as part of broader cancer prevention efforts.
He added that disease prevention must take priority alongside treatment, underscoring the importance of public awareness initiatives such as World Cancer Day, observed annually on 4 February.