Law marker calls for cancer screening
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Top StoriesLima Constituency Member of Parliament Kelvin Kunda has called on Zambians to prioritise regular cancer screening, warning that late detection continues to contribute to cancer-related deaths. Mr Kunda has said that early detection remains critical in improving treatment outcomes…
Lima Constituency Member of Parliament Kelvin Kunda has called on Zambians to prioritise regular cancer screening, warning that late detection continues to contribute to cancer-related deaths.
Mr Kunda has said that early detection remains critical in improving treatment outcomes urging members of the public not to wait until they experience symptoms before seeking screening services.
Speaking during the Rotary Club of Maluba’s Free Annual Cancer Screening event at Twikatane Mall in Barlastone Park in Lusaka today, Mr Kunda said cancer is a major health concern requiring collective efforts from Government, the private sector and communities.
He cited estimates from the International Agency for Research on Cancer indicating that approximately 16,600 Zambians are diagnosed with cancer annually, while nearly 9,800 die from the disease.
Mr Kunda mentioned that many people continue to lose their lives because cancer is detected at advanced stages when treatment is more difficult and costly.
“Not knowing does not protect you. Knowing does,” he said, urging people to overcome fear, stigma and misconceptions surrounding cancer screening,” he said.
He said early detection improves chances of successful treatment, reduces the financial burden on families and helps to prevent some cancers, particularly through screening for cervical cancer.
Mr Kunda has commended the Rotary Club of Maluba for sustaining its free cancer screening and awareness initiative for 22 years, noting that about 4,400 people have been educated on cancer prevention and have been screened through the programme.
He has called for more partnerships to expand access to screening services, particularly in underserved communities calling on churches, community health volunteers and other local groups to promote awareness.
Meanwhile, Rotary Club of Maluba President Chanja Makai said the club is targeting to screen 700 people during this year’s initiative.
Ms Makai said the annual programme has been running for 22 years, with prostate and breast cancer screening introduced alongside cervical cancer screening as the initiative expanded.
She said the services are being provided free of charge in partnership with health professionals from Kanyama Level One Hospital and CDH, with screening available for breast, cervical and prostate cancer.
“We are hoping to capture about 300 men and 400 women. So men will be testing for both prostate and breast cancer,” she said.
Ms Makai has encouraged members of the public to attend with their families, adding that screening is quick and can help detect cancer even among people who are not experiencing symptoms.
She said the club has also heard testimonies from cancer survivors who have lived cancer-free for several years after diagnosis and treatment, demonstrating the importance of early detection.
And Synergy Seeds Zambia Chief Executive Officer Brian Mhango said the company is proud to partner with the Rotary Club of Maluba and other stakeholders in making cancer screening services accessible to communities.
Mr Mhango said the initiative reflects the importance of promoting good health as a foundation for strong families, productive workplaces and thriving communities.
“Early detection saves lives, and screening is one of the most important steps we can take towards protecting our health,” he said.
He has urged members of the public not to wait until they feel unwell before taking their health seriously.
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