Uganda: Health Ministry Investigates Reported Rise in Cancer Cases in Bunyangabu
[Nile Post] The Ministry of Health, together with the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), has launched an investigation into a reported rise in cancer cases in Bunyangabu District, with preliminary findings raising concerns about possible environmental factors.
The Ministry of Health in Uganda, along with the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) and other government agencies, has launched an investigation into a reported increase in cancer cases in Bunyangabu District. Preliminary findings suggest possible environmental factors may be contributing to the rise. A multi-disciplinary team visited the district, testing water, soil, and food samples, as well as reviewing cancer case reports in five health facilities.
The investigation found that over 80 people received cancer treatment at these facilities in the past two years, with more than 20 living cancer patients in each of the 30 households surveyed. Cervical cancer was the most common type, accounting for 47 percent of the cases identified. However, the investigation has not yet determined a definitive cause for the increase.
While radiation levels were found to be above the national average, further analysis is needed to establish a link between environmental exposure and the cancer cases. Health experts urge residents in Bunyangabu to undergo early screening and diagnosis, particularly for cancers that appear to be prevalent in the district. District leaders have called for urgent intervention to ensure access to safe drinking water, while also advocating for the establishment of a regional cancer centre in the Rwenzori region to improve access to specialized cancer services.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
