Pres. pledges unwavering commitment to fight cancer

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has given assurance that the government remains committed to fight cancer to build a happy, healthy, and resilient nation.

The president gave this assurance in a special message he delivered on the occasion of World Cancer Day, which is observed internationally.

In his message, the president highlighted the theme set for World Cancer Day 2025, "United by Unique". As such, the president said that as the theme suggests, each person affected by the disease is on a different journey, but we are united as the theme states.

The president's message noted that the Maldives is working on a set course to achieve the international and regional goal of eliminating cervical cancer as a public health concern by 2030.

The president said that the government will continue to work on establishing a special cancer center and expanding comforting care services, which help identify symptoms of sensitive illnesses and improve quality of life, in various parts of the country to increase access to services.

The president's message highlighted that currently, screening for five types of cancers is being conducted at island and atoll levels through primary health care services. He also said that work is underway to establish specialized screening centers, which will provide additional assistance in running programs against cancer.

The president's message also stated that these centers will be developed as health service centers for island-level populations.

Shedding light on the national-level measures being taken against factors that contribute to cancer, the president said that banning electronic cigarettes, strengthening laws and policies to stop tobacco use, and providing health treatment services needed to overcome the tobacco epidemic free of charge demonstrate the current government's steadfast commitment to protecting the public from actions that could expose them to the risk of cancer.

As an international cancer day is being observed, the president's message recalled those who have passed away from this disease and noted the great courage and resilient determination of those who are still enduring the pain of the illness. The president also expressed sincere gratitude to those working in the health sector, associations, international partners, cancer advocates, and the entire community.

The president's message noted that working together, through responsibility and sharing, to facilitate prevention, early detection, and equal access to treatment is a sign of successful work being done.

In connection with World Cancer Day, which is observed internationally, the president has also shared a special message on his official ‘X’ handle.