Namibia faces 4 000 new cancer cases annually, health ministry says

Health ministry executive director Penda Ithindi has revealed that Namibia is intensifying its fight against a growing cancer crisis, with around 4 000 new cases diagnosed annually and an alarming 12% rise each year. Speaking at a Cancer Genomics Conference hosted by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) in Windhoek yesterday, Ithindi stressed the urgent need for coordinated action. “Cancer is a growing public health challenge in Namibia, affecting thousands of families every year. Among men, prostate cancer is the most common, while breast and cervical cancers lead among women, with many cases worsened by late screening and limited access to treatment,” he said.Innovative approachesThe three-day conference, themed ‘Harnessing Functional Genomics in Cancer Research: Opportunities for Diagnosis and Treatment’, brings together scientists, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and international partners to explore innovative approaches in cancer care, diagnosis, and treatment.Ithindi highlighted the dual burden faced by African nations. “Across the continent, more than one million new cases are recorded annually, with numbers expected to rise sharply by 2040. Infection-related cancers such as cervical and liver cancer, alongside lifestyle-related cancers, are straining already fragile health systems,” he added.The Namibian government has taken a multi-pronged approach to the crisis, launching initiatives to strengthen prevention, early detection, and treatment. “We are prioritising breast and cervical cancer screening, improving diagnostic capacity, and ensuring access to essential medicines and radiotherapy. Investments in the Namibia Oncology Centre, pathology laboratories, chemotherapy and radiotherapy services, and mobile screening units are extending care to urban and remote communities,” Ithindi said.Research and educationChallenges remain, particularly in workforce capacity, infrastructure, and resources. “Yet these obstacles require not retreat, but continued commitment and innovative solutions,” he said. Erold Naomab, NUST Vice-Chancellor, emphasised the role of research and education in combating cancer. “Cutting-edge research is vital for breakthroughs in understanding, diagnosing, and treating cancer. At NUST, our Cancer Genomics Research Group is pioneering studies to identify genetic biomarkers unique to Namibian populations and to examine how genetics and environment influence cancer risk and progression,” he said.The conference also serves as a platform to advance precision medicine in Namibia. “Precision medicine, based on genomic insights, holds unprecedented promise for transforming cancer treatment by tailoring therapies to individual patients’ unique genetic profiles,” Naomab added.The inaugural Cancer Genomics Conference runs until 26 September 2025, with sessions addressing data security, policy frameworks, and equitable access to care.

Namibia faces 4 000 new cancer cases annually, health ministry says

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-25

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Namibia faces 4 000 new cancer cases annually, health ministry says

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Namibian Sun 2025-09-25

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