Cancer Survivors Quest (CSQ) has emphasized that strengthening public awareness on cancer warning signs and promoting early medical screening can significantly help reduce the burden of the disease in Malawi.

CSQ Executive Director, Chikhulupiliro Stanley Ng’ombe, made the remarks on Wednesday as Malawi joined the rest of the world in commemorating and reflecting on cancer-related issues.

Ng’ombe said more than 10,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year in the country, a figure that underscores the seriousness of the disease and the urgent need to intensify public education efforts.

“The statistics clearly show that cancer is a major public health challenge in Malawi. There is a need to step up awareness campaigns on cancer symptoms and the importance of early testing,” said Ng’ombe.

He added that addressing the cancer burden requires strong collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, faith-based groups, traditional leaders and the general public to ensure cancer information reaches all communities.

According to the Ministry of Health, cancer is among the leading causes of death in Malawi. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, followed by esophageal and breast cancers.

Meanwhile, skin cancer remains a growing concern, with approximately 3,000 new cases recorded annually. Cases of prostate cancer among men are also on the rise, placing increasing pressure on men’s health services in the country.