The most common cancer among women in Madagascar is cervical cancer, with a mortality rate of 30 per cent, followed by breast and colorectal cancers. In men, prostate, liver cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma are the most common cancers, driven by infectious diseases.
The team assessed all elements that can impact cancer care in the country. These include factors such as governance, resources and regulatory frameworks for radiation safety, and components such as surveillance, referral networks, early diagnostic capacities, oncology workforce development opportunities, and readiness for advanced and expanded radiotherapy services.
“The strength of the imPACT review lies in its analysis of the entire cancer continuum,” said Laurent Musango, WHO Representative in Madagascar. “The assessment reveals a solid foundation for integrating cancer control at the community level, and the potential for an overall strengthening of health systems in terms of prevention and early diagnosis.”
The review found that Madagascar has been steadfast in boosting cancer services since a previous assessment in 2015. The country has expanded cervical cancer prevention, with pre-cancerous lesion screening already available and HPV vaccination set to start in October and has undertaken important efforts to modernize and distribute imaging services.
The national health system also has an established and overall qualified health workforce, with six faculties of medicine available to train specialized health professionals – particularly in surgery, a critical aspect in cancer treatment.