Ida Ismail
Cancer is becoming increasingly worrisome in Albania, becoming a major public health problem. Official data shows that 7076 new cases of cancer were registered last year, ranking the disease as the second cause of death after cardiovascular diseases. Statistics show that men are the most affected, with over 3800 new cases during the last year, while about 3200 new cases were registered among women.
In men, the highest incidence is observed in lung, stomach, prostate and colon cancer. Meanwhile, in women, breast cancer remains the most common form, with around 800 new cases each year.
During the Forum "Cancer Control in Albania: Prevention, Screening and Patient Care", public health experts linked the increase in cases to lifestyle, especially smoking, which remains the main risk factor.
Public Health Institute expert Alban Ylli said: "What is striking is a continuous increase in cancerous diseases by 2.5-2.6% each year. We must be prepared for a significant increase in colon cancer, and even stomach cancer. I personally hoped that it would start to be brought under control, but unfortunately it continues to increase."
The increase in lung cases in the age group over 50 also remains alarming. This situation is also reflected in the increase in hospitalizations at the "Mother Teresa" University Hospital Center, where oncology Services report an increasing workload.
Minister of Health Evis Sala said that in the fight against cancer, in addition to prevention and early detection, hard work is being done on its treatment, through the establishment of the National Institute of Oncology and the National Cancer Network, which, according to her, is a matter of months.
"Establishing a Scientific Research Institution according to European models. During these months, in Milan I have met young Albanian doctors who work in European institutions of excellence and have the desire to contribute to this historic reform. The National Cancer Network will enable the provision of oncology Services close to the patient," said the minister.
However, beyond the measures, experts warn that no reduction in cases should be expected in the coming years.
"Albania must be prepared for a large number of cancer cases and a major challenge in the healthcare system," emphasized Institute of Public Health expert Alban Ylli.
Smoking, alcohol, unhealthy diet, obesity and environmental pollution remain the main factors fueling this silent epidemic, making prevention and early detection as important as treatment.acqj.al
