Residents have been encouraged to undertake early cancer screening as a key measure to prevent the rising burden of the disease, which is often costly to treat when detected late.
Last Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Uganda joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Cancer Day. During the observance, the Uganda Cancer Institute released concerning statistics indicating that in the 2024/2025 financial year, a total of 8,372 cancer patients were registered.
Among these were women diagnosed with breast and cervical cancer, among other types. The report further revealed that over 80,000 chemotherapy infusions and about 68,000 radiotherapy sessions were administered, pointing to an increasing prevalence of cancer in the country.
Early Check ups
Speaking to Jubilee Radio today, the Rt. Rev. Robert Muhiirwa Akiiki, Bishop of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese who doubles as a prostate cancer survivor, expressed deep concern over the growing cancer burden. He appealed to Ugandans to prioritize regular medical check-ups in order to avoid complications associated with late diagnosis.
Sharing his personal experience, Bishop Muhiirwa noted that early medical screening enabled him to detect prostate cancer at an early stage, allowing him to receive timely treatment and successfully manage the disease.
Reflecting on the challenges he faced as a cancer patient in 2024, the Bishop advised men to regularly undergo prostate cancer screening, while encouraging women to seek screening for breast and cervical cancer.
He urged them to seek medical attention early for both prevention and effective treatment.
The Bishop also urged the public to reduce alcohol consumption or do away with it, and avoid unhealthy or inorganic foods, which have been linked to cancer.
He noted that cancer treatment is not only expensive but also places a heavy financial burden on families, often disrupting their progress due to high medical costs.