Prof Mwandosya launches cancer diary
DAR ES SALAAM: DEPUTY Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, has urged Tanzanians to develop a habit of health awareness, especially as the government strengthens health services across the country, including cancer screening initiatives.
The call was made on Thursday during the launch of a book titled ‘Living with Cancer: Diaries of a Multiple Myeloma Patient’, written by veteran politician, seasoned scholar and author, Prof Mark Mwandosya.
During the event held in Dar es Salaam, Dr Biteko described Prof Mwandosya as a hero of blood cancer (Multiple Myeloma) who has lived with the illness for over 14 years.
“In these 14 heroic years, Prof Mwandosya has shown us all that by following appropriate medical steps, one can overcome cancer and continue to live a better life. Thank you very much and congratulations, Professor. May God continue to bless you,” said Dr Biteko.
He added that through Prof Mwandosya’s treatment history, the book will help save the lives of many Tanzanians who might otherwise miss out on medical services due to a lack of proper information.
“I commend you again, Professor, for your commitment to being a testimony so that Tanzanians and the world can learn from your life. This is truly a profound love for your country. On behalf of the government, I commend you on this decision. Furthermore, I pray that God grants you good health and many more years,” he said.
Dr Biteko said cancer is a disease that can be managed or treated and can even be completely cured if the patient receives timely medical attention, thanking Prof Mwandosya for choosing to provide solutions to this issue in society.
Sharing his journey living with Multiple Myeloma, a rare and chronic form of blood cancer, Prof Mwandosya said he decided to convey the challenges and lessons physically, mentally and spiritually.
He underscored his experiences, stressing a message of hope, courage and dignity in life.
“The discovery of cancer should not be perceived as a death sentence; it is a journey to continue living and seeking meaning and strength even amidst illness,” said Prof Mwandosya.
On her part, a haematology specialist and lecturer at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dr Clara Chamba, urged Tanzanians to undergo health screenings early and to embrace physical exercise.
She said in the fight against cancer, the government, through the Ministry of Health, has made significant investments in cancer screening and treatment services, as well as in other diseases in general.
