Namibian Cancer Registry recognised in latest Global Cancer Atlas.

The Cancer Association of Namibia (WO30) announced that Namibia’s National Cancer Registry (NNCR), endorsed by the African Cancer Registry Network (AFCRN) and started, funded and still maintained by the Cancer Association of Namibia, has once again been accepted and published as an official dataset in the newly launched Global Cancer Atlas, developed by the American Cancer Society, in collaboration with the World Health Organization and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).


Rolf Hansen, the CEO of the Cancer Association of Namibia, said that this international recognition affirms the global community’s trust in Namibia’s commitment to strengthening cancer data collection and driving evidence-based responses. "Although Namibia is a developing country, our independent submission and inclusion underscores the dedication to maintaining health data standards that meaningfully contribute to global cancer control efforts." He highlighted that the latest Global Cancer Atlas highlights a pressing concern. "Lifestyle-related factors, including tobacco use, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity, continue to be the leading causes of cancer globally. While the past decade has seen progress in prevention, early detection, and treatment, urgent action remains necessary, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Namibia," he said.


According to Hansen, this challenge is amplified by two major gaps in Namibia. "Firstly, cancer is not a reportable disease, making consistent and comprehensive national data collection difficult and secondly, Namibia lacks a formal National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP), limiting coordination of prevention, treatment, and palliative care services."


Hansen emphasised that these factors hinder the efficient planning and management of cancer control in Namibia,”However, the continued international recognition of our registry affirms the importance of the work done not only by the Association, but also dedicated partners in the Ministry of Health and Social Services and the private sector. It reinforces the urgent need for structured national policies that support cancer patients and survivors.”


He added that CAN Namibia remains steadfast in its mission to promote evidence-based advocacy, strengthen the cancer response framework, and empower communities through education, screening, treatment support, and palliative care services. "Working together, we can close the cancer care gap, and help all Namibians afflicted by cancer."


The Cancer Atlas states that smoking is the leading preventable cause of cancer incidence and mortality globally. Smoking and smokeless tobacco cause at least 17 and three cancer types, respectively, and together account for one in five cancer deaths worldwide.