Ibb Province Faces Alarming 50% Surge in Cancer Cases Amidst Health Crisis

Director of the National Foundation for Combating Cancer in Ibb province, Dr. Balegh Al-Taweel, has issued a stark warning regarding a catastrophic escalation in cancer cases, reporting a 40% to 50% increase in diagnoses over recent years compared to the period before 2015.

Dr. Al-Taweel highlighted that rural areas within Ibb are disproportionately affected by this alarming rise. He attributed the surge to severe environmental factors, including the contamination of groundwater sources, the indiscriminate use of banned and carcinogenic agricultural pesticides, and a lack of health awareness coupled with inadequate oversight of chemicals used in agriculture.

The foundation's director expressed grave concern over the age groups being impacted, noting that cancer is increasingly affecting young people and children at unprecedented rates. He cautioned that without urgent and life-saving intervention from relevant authorities and international organizations, the incidence and mortality rates are poised to climb uncontrollably.

Ibb province, one of Yemen's most densely populated regions, is grappling with a severe deficit in its healthcare sector. The cancer treatment center has recorded a total of 7,780 registered cases, compounded by a critical shortage of chemotherapy drugs and the non-operational status of radiotherapy equipment. This situation leaves thousands of patients facing prolonged waiting lists, posing a daily threat to their lives.

The National Foundation for Combating Cancer has appealed to all humanitarian organizations and the international community for immediate emergency support to save cancer patients in Ibb, emphasizing the urgent need for medical supplies and treatment doses before it is too late.