Developing countries unprepared to fight cancer

 By LEAH OMAE

THE majority of the health systems in developing countries are not prepared to address long-term debilitating illnesses such as cancer.

US health attaché’ to PNG and Pacific Islands Dr Carlos Williams said health systems should be transformed to meet emerging health threats, while continuing to meet basic public health needs.

He said PNG had a lot of health issues such as tuberculosis, HIV and workforce capacity. So the solution should be the health system stretching to address the gaps.

“We are excited about the efforts of the people of the Pacific in leading the fight. It is understood that a truly coordinated approach will be required,” he said.

“PNG is developing a cancer policy and is focusing on the most common cancers such as cervical, mouth and breast.”

Williams attended a joint forum of Pacific economic and health ministers last July in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

He took part in the unanimously endorsed non-communicable diseases roadmap to support a multi-sector approach to combat illnesses such as cancer.

At the meeting, the WHO in partnership with regional governments, launched the tobacco-free Pacific campaign.

“The US Health Team is dedicated to forming strong collaborations and providing technical assistance for our partners in identifying sustainable solutions that are rooted in best practices.”