The Qatar National Cancer Registry has published its annual report, which helps researchers and decision-makers in the country understand the exact size and burden of cancer in Qatar. It also contributes significantly to correct planning based on accurate and documented data.
According to the report in 2015, 1,466 cases of cancer were newly diagnosed, with 43% females and 57% males. The most common was breast cancer followed by colorectal cancer and then the prostate. For Qataris, breast cancer was the most common followed by colorectal cancer and then uterus. Among children up to the age of 14 years old, leukaemia followed by brain cancer was the most common. With regard to mortality, the report shows that nearly 20% of deaths occurred among breast cancer patients followed by lung and colorectal cancer.
The report contains more than 60 indicators that cover information on cancer patients, both citizens and residents, including adults and children. The report shows that the incidence of cancer in Qatar comes within the global rates of most countries.
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) is highlighting the importance of collaborative working across the pathway of care for those with a cancer diagnosis to ensure timely access for investigation and treatment and to ensure continuity of care between providers.
The cancer burden can be reduced through partnerships between MoPH, the Primary Health Care Corporation, Hamad Medical Corporation, Sidra Medicine, private providers and other stakeholders. Partnerships play a valuable role in the sharing of knowledge and experience to drive impact and make changes.
In addition, the National Cancer Programme is working in partnership with the Public Health Department to highlight the need to create healthy environments in schools and workplaces and for individuals to make healthy lifestyle choices. These messages are reflected through the ‘Start Now’ campaign which is being led by the public health team.
Qatar joins the observance of World Cancer Day under the World Health Organisation (WHO) theme ‘We Can - I Can’ and marked annually on February 4.
