WHO Delivers 25 Tons of Cancer Medicines to Hospitals in Afghanistan

The World Health Organization (WHO) has delivered 25 tons of anti-cancer medicines to the National Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Hospital in Kabul and several other health centers across Afghanistan.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, WHO said the shipment also included essential medical supplies distributed to Ali Abad Hospital and cancer treatment units in Nangarhar, Balkh, and Herat provinces. The assistance comprises vital chemotherapy medicines and kits for treating non-communicable diseases, which are increasingly affecting patients in the country.

WHO stated that the support is expected to benefit around 16,000 people, with the cancer medicines alone able to treat about 13,130 patients over the next six months. The medical assistance was funded by the European Union as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare services and improve access to treatment for patients in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan's health system has faced significant challenges in recent years, including shortages of medicines, limited diagnostic facilities, and financial constraints impacting hospitals and clinics. Health experts note that cancer cases are rising, while specialized treatment centers and access to chemotherapy drugs remain limited in many areas.

Officials highlighted that the opening of a new cancer diagnosis and treatment hospital in Kabul about a month ago represents an important step in expanding cancer care services.