Cancer is curable if early detected, Dar Hospital experts insist

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIAN citizens have been urged to abandon the belief that cancer is incurable and instead seek medical testing as soon as they notice unusual symptoms, as early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

The call was made today in Dar es Salaam by a cancer specialist at the  Kinondoni-based Shifaa Hospital, Ms Magreth Moshi, during World Cancer Day commemorations.

Ms Moshi said cancer can be treated effectively if patients develop a habit of undergoing regular medical check-ups and seeking early diagnosis, rather than waiting until the disease reaches advanced stages.

She explained that World Cancer Day, marked annually on February 4, aims to raise public awareness and encourage people to visit health facilities promptly when they experience warning signs such as unusual lumps or persistent changes in the body.

“Early detection gives patients hope and relief because the chances of recovery are much higher compared to when one delays seeking medical attention,” she said.

“If you are tested and the cancer is detected at an early stage, I assure Tanzanians that it is treatable,” Ms Moshi added.

She further revealed that in 2024, Shifaa Hospital established a Cancer Care and Research Centre in partnership with Mumbai Oncocare, aimed at providing holistic and compassionate cancer care. The centre operates with an internationally recognised multidisciplinary tumour board and offers access to molecular oncology and specialised oncology services.

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Ms Moshi also advised Tanzanians to adopt healthy lifestyles by avoiding risky behaviours such as smoking and by engaging in regular physical exercise to reduce cancer risks.

Meanwhile, Shifaa Hospital Marketing Manager, Ms Victoria Tarimo, encouraged Tanzanian citizens to visit the hospital for initial cancer screening to enable early intervention.

She said the hospital has invested heavily in expertise and advanced medical technology through a specialised cancer unit to improve diagnosis and treatment services.

“The cancer services offered at Shifaa meet international standards. When you come here, it feels like you are in India because of our partnership with a hospital in Mumbai that supports cancer treatment,” she said.