Cancer specialist Dr. Albino Amum speaks on Eye Radio's Dawn Show. Oct. 4, 2024. (Photo: Awan Moses).

JUBA, South Sudan (Eye Radio) – The Director of the National Cancer Department at the Ministry of Health, Dr. Albino Amum Awin, has announced a strategic partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) to conduct a comprehensive baseline assessment of cancer status across South Sudan.

The initiative, which was announced this week, follows a high-level meeting between the Ministry and its international partners to address the growing need for a data-driven approach to oncology.

According to Dr. Albino, the assessment is designed to map the full extent of the cancer burden in the country, including incidence, morbidity, mortality, and prevalence rates.

A primary focus of this assessment will be a thorough evaluation of the current availability and quality of cancer services. Dr. Albino noted that the Ministry will examine diagnostic and treatment capacities, the number of trained cancer care providers, and the state of essential medical devices and infrastructure.

“This process is vital to identify existing gaps and set up the necessary interventions,” said Dr. Albino. He emphasized that the assessment would also look into the availability of cancer awareness programs and screening services, which are critical for early detection and improving patient outcomes.

The National Cancer Department aims to use the findings to integrate specialized cancer services into the country’s existing health system. A key priority highlighted by Dr. Albino is the establishment of a National Cancer Registry, which will allow South Sudan to track cases more effectively and align with regional and global cancer initiatives.

The Ministry of Health intends to build a more resilient framework for cancer care that meets international standards and provides better support for patients nationwide.