CAN suffers financial loss
Money pumped into palliative care programme
The Cancer Association of Namibia (CAN) recorded a loss of N$262 718 for the 2022-23 financial year.However, CAN's chief executive Rolf Hansen says this is not a sign of danger for the organisation.
"The loss can be mainly attributed to the development of the new palliative care program that CAN is currently implementing," he said in CAN's annual report.
"While a loss is a cause for concern, it is important to consider the long-term benefits and impact of the programme. CAN's non-operating assets are in a healthy state," he said.
Hansen maintained that the organisation is currently in a stable financial position and attributed this to strict financial management which means a sustainable future for CAN.
According to Hansen, CAN's capital expenditure during the past financial year was mainly used to make the organisation's dream of a palliative care unit come true. He says nearly N$7.3 million was used for this.
"Leaving money in the bank may seem like the safer option given the current economic outlook, but CAN realises the importance of fully utilising assets to make an impact.
"By investing in the palliative care unit, CAN is taking proactive steps to address the plight of cancer patients in Namibia," said Hansen.
Outreaches
Hansen says CAN's expenditure for cytological services has climbed from N$77 392 in the 2021-22 financial year to N$386 692 in the last financial year.
Almost 1 000 men underwent tests for prostate cancer and 21 positive referrals were made. Another 68 patients were referred for the treatment of previously undiagnosed hypertension and/or diabetes.
More than 3 600 women were tested for cervical cancer with 53 positive cases referred for treatment. CAN also joined forces with the Dr AB May Center to start a breast clinic after noticing an increase in cases of breast cancer.
More than 200 cancer patients and 31 companions were housed at House Acacia and 36 children were housed at the Chica home for children with cancer, each with a parent or guardian, for the duration of their treatment in the capital.
He said that CAN's financial support to patients grew from N$979 626 in 2021-22 to N$1 449 842 in 2022-23 with 494 new applications added to the existing list.