CAN opens Community Health Clinic
Around 400 Namibians lose their lives to cancer every year.
The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) on Friday officially opened its Community Health Clinic and Patient Support Centre in the capital.Speaking at the vent, CAN chief executive Rolf Hansen said that the main aim of this centre is to educate the population about cancer prevention measures, early detection and available treatment options. "We urgently need to raise awareness, educate the public and promote early detection and treatment options."
Looking at the situation in Africa, Hansen pointed out that the burden of cancer is increasing rapidly due to population growth, longer life expectancy and changing lifestyles. He stressed that just finding a cure is not enough; focusing on alternative approaches to improve outcomes and save lives is crucial.
"Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, responsible for about 10 million deaths in 2020 alone," he said, citing statistics from the World Health Organisation.
The regional health and social welfare services deputy director, Taimi Amaanbo, shared statistics from last year showing that 1 637 patients were admitted for cervical cancer and 127 people lost their lives. More than 4 800 patients were admitted for various other types of cancer, resulting in the loss of nearly 400 lives in just one year.
Money matters
The association also recently published its annual report, stating that for the year ended 28 February, CAN made an operating loss of N$262 718. The deficit can be primarily attributed to the development of the new palliative care program which is currently being implemented.
Hansen stated, “An operational loss is certainly a concern, but assessing the long-term benefits and impact of the care program is important. In addition, CAN's fixed assets are in a good position.”
The development of the palliative care program is in line with CAN's mission to fight cancer and its consequences in Namibia. Palliative care plays an important role in improving the quality of life for cancer patients and their families and represents a significant investment in the well-being of those affected by the disease.
"As a result, the association's net financial position remains stable, indicating that rigorous financial management and program execution have ensured CAN's sustainability for the future." have been donated over the past 55 years, as well as two new properties acquired in January 2023 to house the Palliative Care Namibia support programs mentioned above and the new Community Care Centre, which will offer more diverse clinical and supportive services to the community offers.
Palliative care
CAN's commitment to establishing a palliative care unit received the largest grant in the past financial year at N$7.3 million. “While keeping the money in the bank seems safer given the current economic outlook, CAN understands the importance of leveraging resources to make a difference. By investing in Palliative Care Namibia, CAN is taking proactive steps to meet the needs of cancer patients in the country,” said Hansen.
The difficult economic climate, exacerbated by the impact of Covid-19, has resulted in increased spending and reduced profit margins for CAN's projects. “It is understandable that fundraiser entry fees cannot be high enough to keep up with rising spending. Therefore, finding new ways to raise funds is crucial to continue supporting Namibians affected by cancer.”
The National Cancer Outreach Program and Community Clinics have also played important roles in cancer education and screening: 991 men were screened as part of the rapid PSA testing program, with 21 positive referrals and subsequent pathologic confirmations for prostate cancer. The PSA test (prostate-specific antigen) is a blood test that is primarily used for the early detection of prostate cancer.
In addition, 3 634 women were tested, and 53 cases of cervical cancer were detected and referred for treatment. "Due to the critical increase in breast cancer incidence, CAN, in collaboration with the Dr AB May Cancer Care Centre set up a breast clinic to facilitate faster referrals and early clinical diagnosis."
Transitional homes, House Acacia and CHICA have provided much-needed shelter and support to cancer patients and their companions. The House Acacia Interim Home housed 202 cancer patients with 31 companions. In the CHICA temporary home, 36 children's cancer patients were housed with 36 mothers accompanying them.
According to Hansen, the challenges posed by the increasing incidence of cancer in Namibia call for collective action.