DILI, 05 january 2024 (TATOLI) – WHO works closely with the Ministry of Health to strengthen the country’s national policy and programs to prevent, and manage cancer in Timor-Leste.
In an exclusive interview with the TATOLI, Arvind Mathur, the WHO Representative to Timor-Leste, highlights WHO’s multi-layered approach to combat cancer in the country.
- On February 4th, the World observes World Cancer Day. Could you please provide information on the support and advocacy initiatives undertaken by WHO at both policy and community levels to prevent and manage cancer in Timor-Leste?
On World Cancer Day, it is crucial to highlight WHO’s multi-layered approach in Timor-Leste to combat cancer. WHO has been partnering with the Ministry of Health numerous interventions targeting non-communicable diseases including cancers.
Last year, we supported the establishment of crucial healthcare infrastructure, such as the new center in Baucau for cervical cancer screening and management. This was the second such centre. The first one was established in HNGV.
Community-level initiatives, like the launch of the second National Stepwise Survey on NCDs and common risk factors, show our commitment to comprehensive prevention and management strategies. Our collaboration with the Ministry of Health to establish of a tobacco cessation centers and open-air gymnasiums are aimed at a holistic, community-centric response to cancer prevention.
- How WHO monitors the prevalence of cancer in Timor-Leste. Are there any specific data or insights available regarding the types of cancer recorded in Timor-Leste that can be shared?
The National Stepwise Survey on NCDs provides a comprehensive overview, including specific insights into prevalent cancer types. The first survey was conducted in 2014, and its findings have been instrumental in developing and fine-tuning interventions to prevent and control NCDs in the nation.
The first survey had covered 2609 adults in the age group of 18 to 69 years. The findings showed that 71% men and 29% women used tobacco. Nearly 43% men and 2% women consumed alcohol. And 78% of those surveyed did not consume sufficient fruits and vegetables. All these factors are among the many factors contributing to cancers.
The second NCDs risk factors and health facility readiness survey in Timor-Leste was undertaken in 2023. The second NCD Risk Factor Survey offered the chance to consolidate data on vital nutrition and diet-related indicators and address our existing data gaps. The second survey was enhanced with urine iodine, urine sodium, and urine creatinine tests.
- Could you elaborate on the factors contributing to the development of cancer, and offer guidance on what individuals should do when diagnosed with this disease?
Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and air pollution are risk factors for cancer and other noncommunicable diseases. Some chronic infections are risk factors for cancer; this is a particular issue in low- and middle-income countries.
Cancer risk can be reduced by not using tobacco; maintaining a healthy body weight; eating a healthy diet, including fruit and vegetables; doing physical activity on a regular basis; avoiding or reducing consumption of alcohol; getting vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B if you belong to a group for which vaccination is recommended, among other things.
WHO emphasizes the importance of early detection through regular screenings, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to medical advice upon diagnosis.
- Do you have a message for the people of Timor-Leste, particularly those currently battling cancer, regarding awareness, prevention, or support?
My message is simple. Increase your awareness and be proactive about prevention measures. Regular screenings, adoption of a healthy lifestyle, and seeking timely medical advice are key elements in the fight against cancer.
All responses are to be attributed to Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste.
TATOLI
