Beirut: On the occasion of World Cancer Day, the Ministry of Public Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization and national stakeholders, gathered leaders, experts, and advocates to reaffirm Lebanon’s commitment to strengthening cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship. The event highlighted both the progress achieved under the National Cancer Plan 2023 – 2028, and the urgent need to consolidate governance and invest in sustainable cancer control amid ongoing national challenges.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Dr. Rakan Nassereddine, Minister of Public Health, emphasized the ministry’s dedication to prioritizing cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care within Lebanon’s national health agenda. Despite the challenges faced, the ministry aims to collaborate with partners to enhance governance, protect patients’ rights, and build a resilient cancer control system that leaves no one behind.
WHO Representative in Lebanon Dr. Abdinasir Abubakar highlighted cancer as a societal challenge that tests the strength and equity of health systems. He noted WHO’s partnership with Lebanon, especially during crises, and its role in safeguarding access to life-saving cancer medicines, supporting over 4,000 adult and pediatric patients since 2022. Dr. Abubakar stressed WHO’s investments in long-term system strengthening, including digital governance tools and pooled procurement mechanisms, ensuring that cancer policies are data-driven and aligned with global standards. He remarked, “Between 30 and 50 percent of cancers are preventable. Prevention is not only the most cost-effective intervention, but also the most humane one.”
A key focus of this year’s World Cancer Day was prevention. Evidence shows that up to 50 percent of cancers are preventable, and Lebanon launched its first national awareness campaign dedicated to cancer prevention. This campaign aligns with WHO “Best Buys” on risk factor reduction, promoting healthy eating, physical activity, tobacco and alcohol control, and informed daily choices. The year 2026 will be designated for intensified action on cancer prevention, including colorectal cancer awareness and the introduction of HPV vaccination in the public sector.
Dr. Pierre Anhoury, Advisor to the Minister of Public Health, presented the progress of the National Cancer Plan, highlighting achievements and pressing gaps. Updated data show 16,226 new cancer cases in 2024, with incidence having doubled over the past two decades. While access to cancer medicines has improved and progress in pediatric oncology is evident, governance remains fragile and requires urgent strengthening to protect the credibility and impact of national cancer efforts.
Looking to the future, Dr. Arafat Tfayli, Head of the National Cancer Program, outlined priorities for 2026, including reinforcing the national cancer registry, expanding prevention and screening campaigns, finalizing accreditation of oncology and radiotherapy centers, and strengthening palliative and supportive care. He emphasized the importance of formal recognition of the National Cancer Program within the Ministry of Public Health to ensure sustainability beyond upcoming elections.
The event concluded with a strong call for collective action, underscoring that quality cancer care must remain a national priority and that prevention is the most cost-effective and humane response to the growing cancer burden.