President Asif Ali Zardari on World Cancer Day reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating cancer and highlighted the development of a comprehensive National Cancer Strategy as a key step toward addressing the growing public health challenge.
In his message, the president said the day serves not only as a reminder of the severity of cancer but also as an opportunity to strengthen hope through unity, innovation, and sustained action. He noted that cancer remains the second leading cause of death in Pakistan, with an estimated 185 new cases reported annually per 100,000 people.
President Zardari said rapid urbanisation, lifestyle changes, and a lack of awareness have significantly increased the cancer burden, underscoring the urgent need to accelerate efforts in prevention and control. He emphasised that behind the statistics are families who endure long journeys for treatment, late diagnoses, psychological distress, and heavy financial burdens.
Addressing the government’s response, the president said a National Cancer Strategy is currently under development, with a particular focus on childhood cancers. He added that efforts are underway to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, assess the national cancer burden, and formulate effective cancer control strategies at both federal and provincial levels.
The president further announced that under public–private partnership initiatives, selected cancer patients in federally administered areas will be provided free treatment, while research and data systems are being strengthened to improve cancer care and support evidence-based policymaking.
President Zardari stressed that tackling cancer requires a whole-of-society approach, calling on the private sector, civil society, media, and community organizations to play their role in raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyles. He noted that prevention and early detection remain central to the national strategy, particularly through addressing avoidable risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, and physical inactivity.
Calling for collective action, the president urged citizens, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to join hands to ensure equitable access to timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and compassionate care for all, regardless of socioeconomic status.
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s resolve to make cancer prevention and control a national priority, guided by equity, innovation, and determination, while paying tribute to those who have lost their lives to the disease.
