By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Minister of Health Mduduzi Matsebula has officially launched the Swaziland Radiology Services’ Oncology Centre Project and overseen the commissioning of prostate cancer and brachytherapy services.
During the launching ceremony, the Minister expressed the significance of these developments where he highlighted their potential to revolutionize cancer care in Eswatini.
He emphasized that the introduction of these services is a critical step in the country’s ongoing battle against cancer, a disease that has claimed many lives in the region.
In his address, Matsebula articulated a clear vision for the future of cancer treatment in Eswatini, where he expressed optimism about the progress being made in the private sector, which, in collaboration with the government, is leading efforts to establish comprehensive cancer treatment services within the country.
The Minister stressed the importance of these initiatives in reducing the financial and emotional burdens faced by cancer patients who previously had to seek treatment abroad.
He highlighted the fact that the new Oncology Centre and brachytherapy services would not only enhance the quality of care available but also make treatment more accessible to all citizens, thereby reducing the need for cross-border travel.
The Minister further provided a sobering overview of the cancer landscape in Eswatini, revealing that over 1,100 new cancer cases were recorded in 2023 alone, with a disturbing 55% mortality rate among these patients.
He noted that cervical cancer remains the most common among women, while prostate cancer is most prevalent among men. Unfortunately, more than 60% of these cancer patients present at stages 3 and 4 of the disease, a point at which comprehensive treatment options are limited.
The Ministry of Health has already taken significant steps in this direction, including the establishment of the National Cancer Control Programme and the National Cancer Registry. Additionally,
the rollout of cancer screening services, which includes the use of community screening vehicles, and the introduction of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine for girls aged 9 to 14, are pivotal in the fight against cancer.
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The Minister also mentioned the establishment of chemotherapy treatment centers at Mbabane and Manzini Government Hospitals and the finalization of plans for a Radiotherapy Centre at Manzini Government Hospital.
Matsebula asserted that the commissioning of the brachytherapy services and the launch of the Oncology Centre Project represents a critical partnership between the public and private sectors.
He emphasized that this collaboration would ensure there is no gap in the treatment of cancer patients.
He acknowledged that for many years, emaSwati diagnosed with cancer had to seek treatment across borders, often resulting in significant emotional and financial strain.
The new Oncology Centre is set to address this issue by providing local treatment options, thereby allowing patients to remain close to their families and communities during their treatment, which is crucial for their emotional well-being.
The Minister further highlighted the financial benefits of these developments for the government, noting that reducing the need to send patients abroad for treatment would result in cost savings.
He expressed gratitude for the visionary partnership with the Public Sector Pensions Fund (PSPF), which has been instrumental in bringing the Oncology Centre to fruition. He also encouraged other investors to follow PSPF’s lead in investing in the healthcare sector for the betterment of the nation.
Moreover, Matsebula outlined the implications of these developments, including the potential for economic growth through job creation and skills development in the healthcare field.
He also mentioned the prospects of health tourism, suggesting that by enhancing cancer care and other healthcare facilities, Eswatini could position itself as a leading destination for health tourism in Africa.
This initiative, he explained, would not only bring economic benefits but also promote knowledge transfer and elevate the standards of care across the healthcare system.
The Minister acknowledged the pressing need for the Nuclear Bill to be passed, which would support investments in radiotherapy and other advanced cancer treatments.
He assured stakeholders that efforts were being made to expedite the approval process for this critical legislation, which would place Eswatini among the countries with sustainable infrastructure for regulating radiotherapy activities and protecting patients from potential adverse reactions.
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While celebrating the launch of the Oncology Centre and the introduction of brachytherapy services, Matsebula also emphasized the importance of prevention and early detection in the fight against cancer.
He noted that the Ministry, in partnership with other organizations, has invested heavily in screening technologies for cervical and breast cancers.
However, he pointed out that prostate cancer screening has not received the same level of attention, and this launch seeks to address that gap by promoting awareness and education surrounding prostate health.
He called for regular check-ups and screenings for all eligible men, highlighting the importance of early detection in combating prostate cancer.
He stressed that education campaigns, community workshops, and outreach programs are essential in empowering individuals to take control of their health, ultimately leading to better survival rates and improved quality of life.
In his concluding remarks, the Minister emphasized the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals from various disciplines, including oncologists, urologists, radiologists, nuclear physicians, radiotherapists, medical physicists, nurses, and other allied medical staff.
He called for the formation of a national multidisciplinary team to manage cancer patients locally, ensuring that every patient receives comprehensive and compassionate care throughout their treatment journey.
The Minister also expressed the importance of continuous professional development and training programs for healthcare professionals.
He also stressed that the fight against cancer extends beyond the medical realm and requires a united community effort.
He emphasized the importance of engaging patients and their families in the treatment process, empowering them with knowledge and support to make informed decisions about their health.
This collaborative approach, he concluded, is essential for creating an environment where individuals feel confident seeking help and actively participating in their healthcare journey.
