Bulawayo, (New Ziana)-The Cancer Association of Zimbabwe (Caz) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting patients and expanding awareness campaigns to curb the growing burden of the disease in the country.
In a recent statement, CAZ highlighted its efforts to provide critical care to patients and their families, applauding partnerships with donors and volunteers for enabling its mission.
“We remain steadfast in supporting cancer patients and running awareness programs to lessen the impact of this disease,” it said.
“We are deeply grateful to our partners, donors, and volunteers who have generously stood with us in the fight for a cancer-free Zimbabwe.”
CAZ also highlighted the emotional toll of cancer, not only on patients but also on their loved ones, which prompted it to integrate mental health support into its services to foster a more inclusive and compassionate environment as a response.
“Cancer doesn’t just attack the body—it shakes the emotions of those diagnosed and everyone around them. That’s why we have expanded our programs to include mental health awareness, ensuring no one faces this battle alone,” it said.
The association also reported a significant rise in cancer screenings in the past year, signaling increased public engagement with early detection.
Through wellness lectures, exhibitions, and outreach programs, the association reached 13 368 people, a 38.6 percent increase from 2023.
Breast cancer screenings saw 5 509 women and 45 men tested, marking a 36.3 jump, while cervical cancer checks for 2 369 women rose by 17 percent.
Prostate cancer screenings also surged, with 2 937 men tested, a 6.3 percent increase from the previous year.
Additionally, CAZ said 1 935 individuals received free screenings, and its nurses attended to 6 359 clients through hospital visits, home care, and office consultations, a 27 percent increase from 2023.
The association also recorded progress in emotional and medical support, with 688 clients receiving counselling a 36 percent surge while 752 patients accessed chemotherapy drugs, an 82 percent increase.
To further ease the strain on vulnerable patients, CAZ distributed basic food and toiletry hampers to 10 individuals in need.
As Zimbabwe continues to grapple with rising cancer cases, CAZ’s intensified efforts underscore a growing push for early detection, holistic care, and nationwide awareness to turn the tide against the disease.
New Ziana
