Opinion | Editorials
Urgent need for cancer assessment
Policy makers need to know the scope of the problem before they can address it.
- Gulf News
- Published: 23:31 November 29, 2008
There is an urgent need for an assessment of the cancer situation in the UAE, given that the number of patients diagnosed with the ailment has been increasing. Having an overall picture would not only assist in addressing patients' needs but would also help in drawing up plans to fight the disease.
The UAE Cancer Committee is currently working on putting together a report that would cover all aspects relating to the problem in the country, according to Humaid Al Qutami, Minister of Health. The report's content would guide officials in outlining a nationwide strategy that would be developed in relation to the number of patients and treatment centres required.
The health minister is concerned that the country does not have the facilities to deal with the problem as cancer patients are seeking treatment abroad. With the rate of cancer cases expected to increase, a comprehensive, organised approach is a must.
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