Boost for cancer research in KZN
TM Nkonzo
The African National Congress welcomes the launch of a new lung cancer research project worth more than R57 million at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, which offers early diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The Multinational Lung Cancer Control Programme would be conducted in South Africa, Kenya, Swaziland and Tanzania and would also focus on creating awareness. We understand that cancer is a non-communicable disease that is rife in the country but can be prevented in the early stages. We therefore support this project that aims not only to help with early diagnosis, but also create awareness as well.
The lack of awareness often results in a high number of patients going for treatment only during the latter stages, when they are already at stage 3 or 4, and where it is so far advanced that nothing can help the patient further. In research led by the International Agency for Research on Cancer released this year, South Africa had the highest number of deaths to cancer among Brics countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). This project could also help in public health programmes for lung cancer - one of the top five cancers in the country, which was sidelined. We believe that early detection, support and care are key components in treating lung cancer patients.
I thank you
